Symbols

A paper emblem

To turn a sentence into a sign that reminds you of it.

You need

A sheet of paper · A pencil

Time

Fifteen minutes

1. Write a short sentence, such as “I look after my attention.”
2. Choose two or three of its letters that you like.
3. Draw them so that they share lines.
4. Simplify the drawing until you have a sign you can recognize.
5. If you want to give it an edge, draw a simple shape around it.
6. On the back, write the full sentence and an action: “I start my session without opening other tasks.”
7. Look at the emblem for a few moments and put it where the reminder will be useful.
8. When the purpose changes, put the paper away with its date or recycle it.

An amulet for a quality

To carry with you the reminder of a quality you want to practice.

You need

An object you already have: a button, an ordinary stone, a keychain or a scrap of fabric · Paper and a pencil · A small pouch, or a pocket

Time

Five minutes

1. Pick the object.
2. Write down which quality you want to remember when you see it and which action goes with it.
3. Hold the object and say the words, or a sentence of your own in the same form.
4. Put it in the pouch or in your pocket.
5. Each time you come across it, practice the action.
6. After a while, check whether the reminder is working for you. If you change exercises, keep the object if you are fond of it.

“This object reminds me that I can ask for time before I answer.”

A red thread with seven knots

To wear on your wrist a sign of protection against envy, other people's and your own.

You need

A red thread or ribbon of wool or cotton, about thirty centimeters (12 inches) long · Someone you trust to tie it on for you

Time

Five minutes

1. Ask someone who wishes you well to tie the thread around your left wrist.
2. Have them fasten it with a first knot, loose enough that it isn't tight on your wrist.
3. Have them tie six more knots over the first, seven in all.
4. With each knot, think of something you want to look after: your home, your work, your rest, your people.
5. At the seventh, say the words.
6. Wear it until it wears out or falls off. Then throw it in the trash and, if you like, ask for a new one.

“May this thread guard me from the evil eye and remind me not to look at anyone with envy.”

A cord with nine knots

To tie an intention knot by knot and keep it in sight while you work toward it.

You need

A cord or ribbon about forty centimeters (16 inches) long, in the color you prefer · Paper and a pencil

When

At the new or waxing Moon, if you want to follow the Moon's rhythm.

Time

Ten minutes

1. Write your intention in one sentence. Make it something that depends partly on you and binds no one else.
2. Take the cord in both hands and read the sentence.
3. Tie nine knots in this order: one at each end, one in the middle, and the rest spaced out between them.
4. With each knot, say its line of the words.
5. Hang the cord where you will see it every day, or keep it with the sheet of paper.
6. Write down the first step you will take and a date to check on it.
7. When the intention is met or changes, undo the knots one by one and keep or recycle the cord.

“With the first knot, this begins. With the second, I say it out loud. With the third, I give it shape. With the fourth, I give it strength. With the fifth, I give it life. With the sixth, I hold it up. With the seventh, I look after it. With the eighth, I give thanks for it. With the ninth, it is tied, and I do my part.”