As an empath, I cannot enter a crowded space without creating a bubble of protection around myself. I know I will feel everything others are experiencing on a physical/mental/emotional level. If I forget to protect myself, I return home exhausted and drained, barely able to walk up the driveway
to my home. I urge you to try this exercise...it really does work!
Some examples of how you'll know if you need to protect yourself:
Are you feeling low on energy, as if even the slightest activity takes all your resources and focus? When you go shopping, or go to a crowded public place, do you get strange aches and pains or feel sapped by the time you've finished, even though you were only there for a brief time? Do you leave home bouncing off the walls, but after ten minutes at work, feel as if you've been run over by a steam roller? Have you ever visited someone and left depressed and lethargic, even though the conversation was lively and happy?
Sometimes we need to look at the people around us and the effect they are having on our energetic field. True there are some who are 'energy vampires', who recharge just by being around us, but they're not the only ones who deplete our resources.
Be aware of the people around us, the ones we 'hang out' with, our workmates and even passengers travelling on the same bus. All too often we blithely wander through our day, not realising that 'pieces' of us are being sucked dry by the negative energy of others.
It's important to 'shut ourselves off' which can be as easy as imagining a bubble of protective light around our energetic field. It doesn't require meditation and rituals or anything fancy and mystical. All you need is your focussed intent. 
Before you leave the house, imagine a bubble of energy forming around your energetic field. If you have trouble imagining or visualising one, just say the words out loud, or draw a picture if it helps. Intent really is everything! It only takes a fraction of time and the benefits are huge.
There's no particular colour you need to use, in fact your favourite colour, or the colour you feel you need around you that day can be perfect. The only colours you never ever use is black or it's variations of grey. Some people use the colour of a specific chakra that needs attention and others prefer a clear bubble. If you want to have a rainbow bubble, then go ahead - it's your bubble, you get to choose - you can even use it to accessorise your outfit if you like!
You can still do it later, if you're out and you forgot. Don't panic if you're halfway through grocery shopping when you remember or at lunchbreak. Half a day is better than no day!
If you have to, leave a reminder somewhere to jog your memory. I have a friend who has a piece of paper in the colour of her choice on her dashboard that reminds her to create a bubble before she starts out. There's no writing on it, she doesn't have to worry about people asking her why she has a 'Remember Your Bubble' sign in her car, and if anyone does ask about that coloured bit of paper next to the speedometer, I'm sure she could think of a feasible story anyway!
So, next time you go out, make a conscious action to close yourself off to protect your energy and vitality. I'll bet you notice the difference!
with love, respect and integrity
Cherie xx
PS. You can also create a bubble of protection for someone else, like your children, a sick friend or elderly family member.

There are times we forget we have an inner wisdom that will help us with choices, working out situations or people we meet. This is one of the easiest methods I know.
Start by thinking of the most wonderful happiest experience in your life where you were supremely happy. As you think about it, I want you to take a moment to be present with your body. Be still and notice the reaction your body has to that thought. Whereabouts in your body can you feel this
feeling? Now notice how it feels.
Okay, now think of something totally opposite, when you were devastated, sad or without hope. Where do you feel this in your body? Notice how it feels.
Sometimes it can be in the same place, but the feeling is vastly different.
So, when you aren't sure whether you are listening to your intuition or not, I want you to take some quiet time out to consider the idea and see where it is in your body, how it feels and which emotion it provokes.
It might take a little practise but soon you will be able to know straight away whether you want to apply for that job, pursue that
relationship or go ahead and make that big purchase.

Sometimes we get caught up in everyone else's perceptions of who we are and we forget who we truly are. From an early age we take on board everyone else's belief systems and take them as our own.
A great way to find out what you really want to do with your life is to do the 30 Day Plan.
Find yourself a piece of paper, or a book to write in.
Write the date at the top and then write the date it will be in 30 days time, so you will know when you have completed the exercise.
Take time to write everything you've always wanted to do, no matter how small and insignificant. Don't worry if you can't think of very many, this is a work in progress.
For the next 30 days, I want you to look at your list every day. It doesn't have to be the same time of the day, just as long as you look at it every day! (get the hint?!)
Each day, you can cross off what you don't want on the list andadd more onto it. (If you think of something during the day and you want to add it to the list, then do so. This is your list, there are no rules...except for looking at it every day!)
At the end of 30 days the list will only include things that make your soul sing, that you really want to do. All the 'stuff' you've crossed off will be beliefs and perceptions of what you thought you wanted to do - but in reality they were other people's beliefs.
Isn't that so cool?
I did this several years ago for the first time. I was feeling lost and didn't know what I wanted out of life or what I wanted to put into it. My list began with three items, grew to over 50, and then came back to seven core beliefs that were mine. I've achieved most of them (Angelic Messages with Attitude and coming out of the 'psychic closet' were on that list) and know with every cell of my being that these were what I wanted to do, more than anything else in the world.
Whenever I feel stuck or unsure of my direction, I do a shorter version of the 30 day plan, I find it easier to get to my core desires these days, but for a first timer, I would definitely recommend 30 days. It's surprising how sometimes it takes those last few days to dig deep.
It sure makes it easier to visualise what you want when you actually know what that is!
with love, integrity & respect
Cherie xx

The New Moon is a great time to attract what you want into your life.
Although a Full Moon Ritual, where you release all that is holding you back is  helpful, it's not imperative. So here's how you do your New Moon Ritual. You
can set up your space with candles, crystals and your favourite music softly
playing in the background, this is a personal choice. However, you do need to
have a pen, paper and focussed intent for your New Moon Ritual.
Sit and  think about what it is that you do want, whether it's a new job, a relationship,  house, car, etc. Picture what you want. Make sure you can visualise everything about it. If it's a new car, smell the new upholstery or see the clean shiny engine. If it's a new love, what characteristics does he/she have? List as much as you want, the more specific you are the better.
As you start your list, begin with something like 'It is June 5th 2012 and I have a perfect relationship. My partner has blue eyes, thick brown hair, a captivating smile, etc. I am cherished, nurtured and incredibly happy in my relationship. Act as if it has already happened, as if it is June 5th, or whatever date you have chosen and write it from a present point of view. Immerse yourself in the emotion of your list, feel loved, imagine how you feel as that person looks at you. Imagine unlocking your new car, starting the engine, driving to work. Visualise getting on the plane for the trip you've always wanted, what are the other passengers like? Is the food great? Did you watch an in-flight movie? What places of interest are you going to visit on the way? Really get in touch with what you are asking for...live it, feel it and 'be' it!
It is important to focus only on what you want to manifest into your life, so it should never have 'don't', 'won't', 'want', or 'need' in your list. If you put 'don't' or 'won't,' the Universe has trouble understanding this, it only reads the rest of the sentence and gives you what you weren't hoping for. How many times has someone asked for a volunteer and you sit there thinking 'Don't pick me! Don't pick me!' and you were chosen? Or 'I hope that doesn't happen to me', and it did?! The Universe doesn't recognise negatives, so avoid them totally. 'Need' and 'want' statements will mean that on June 5th (or whatever date you choose) you will still be needing or wanting that which you desire, so don't include them on your list either.
When you're finished, read your list out loud to yourself, to register your intent to yourself, as well as the Universe. Remember to say thank you for all those great things that are about to come into your life. Fold your paper and place a candle (in a holder) on top of it and let it burn for as long as you feel it needs - you will know how long this will be, just as you will know what colour candle is required. It isn't about the trimmings you use, it is your intent that matters!
When you feel ready to put out the candle, take your paper and candle and put them somewhere safe. Some people like them
visible, so they can recall the emotions to manifest, some people sleep with theirs under their pillow or put it in their wallet and some people put it somewhere they will never find it ever again. This is a personal ritual, so it's entirely up to you where it stays.
I was going to type up my first ever New Moon Ritual for you, but I put it somewhere safe - so you know which category I come
under. If I ever locate it, I will definitely put it up as an example. I needed a fun job with like-minded souls, so I wrote up a big list of requirements. I actually printed off two copies and posted one, addressed 'To the Universe, c/- Australia Post' (with no return address of course!) Within three weeks (sooner than I'd said it would happen) I had a great job, made new friends and it was
all I had said it would be. It wasn't until I was moving a year later I found my copy and realised I'd got everything itemised on that list!
 - Just remember to be realistic. If you aren't leaving the house to meet people, you won't meet the true love you wrote about on your list - you do have to meet the Universe part way!
with love, respect & integrity
Cherie x

Here is a meditation I wrote to help you cleanse, balance and re-energise.

Please make yourself comfortable and gently close your eyes. 
Take a deep breath….hold….exhale 
And again……hold….exhale 
As the rhythm of your breathing becomes gentle and even, focus on your breath as it goes in and out. 
Feel your body begin to relax as it gradually releases the stress of your day
 
Imagine an isolated beach if you will
The sun is shining and the air is still 
Seagulls fly gracefully by
There’s not a single cloud in the sky 
As you wade in the water there on the sand
Waves gently caress your toes where you stand
The sea is peaceful, calm and serene
You’re here in the now – forget where you’ve been 
As the waves rush in and lap at your feet
Nature and you are one, united.... complete 
With the constant ebb and flow of the tide
A feeling of well-being surges inside 
You feel safe and secure in this beautiful place
As the sun gently kisses your upturned face
Your arms are outstretched, with nothing to hide
As you receive love and blessings from the other side
A warmth starts in the core of your soul
It grows and expands as it begins to roll 
The energy travels slowly down to your fingers
They tingle and pulse as the energy lingers
Travelling up to the top of your crown
It fills every nook and cranny as it heads down
Spreading down your legs till it reaches your toes
Energised, serene, content, your body now glows
The energy flows through your body from top to toe
It gathers up that which has to go
As this energy is absorbed in your soul and body
Self-realise your worth, know ‘there’s much more to me’
This divine light assists you to feel more at rest
Helping you achieve what is right for you – the very best 
With the oneness of source there by your side
The troubles of your day grow dim and subside
A beautiful ray of gold light comes down from above
Connecting to your crown chakra with love 
This link to source, as soothing as the sea
Reminds you of why you are here, who you want to be 
As the energy begins to flow down and through
It gathers up any negative energy from you
Let it hold and help strengthen your belief
Releasing feelings of negativity and grief
When it reaches down to the soles of your feet
Golden light removes what is not yours to keep
It travels deep in the earth past the sand
Where it is filtered, cleansed and positive again
Imagine gold light seeping through all your pores
Creating an orb that protects, loves and restores
Arms still spread wide you embrace the world and humanity
As you are welcomed and refreshed by the source, and the sea
Any time you feel low in faith, hope or spirit
Remember this moment, immerse yourself in it
Sometimes life doesn’t go as we planned
Remember this spot, this place where you stand
Know this to the very depths of your core
There are no limits, you can always ask for more
The universe is unlimited, generous and free
With more than enough for you and for me
Take a last look at this, your sacred beach
Know source energy is always within reach
Its time now to return to the room where you sit
Relax, take a deep breath, and go to it 
Feel the warm glow pulsate as it stays here within you
Your body and mind are calm, serene and refreshed too
As you return to the divine being that’s sitting here
Feel your feet on the floor, lean back into your chair
Take a deep breath to help you re-energise
And another - as you gently open your eyes...

The Full Moon in Leo on February 8th is a good time to release old habits, belief systems and insecurities to make way for a new way of being, interacting with others and thinking. It is ideal for improving our self esteem and respect for the divine being within us.
It isn't necessary to go 'all out' with a full moon ritual, it can be as simple or as complicated as you wish. For a basic Full Moon Ritual, you can choose some or all of the items below:
Candles            Paper & Pen(s)        Burnproof container        Tealight candle
Ting-chas             Crystal Singing Bowl            Incense                Matches
Music to set the tone and your intention        A treat (a favourite drink & food)
You can enlarge on this by having something to represent the four elements - air, water, earth and fire e.g candle, incense, a crystal, small bowl of water (optional)

Set up your space with everything you want to use, you don't want to be getting up and rummaging around the cupboards for items during your ritual. Focussing your intent is important.
If you think you'll be disturbed, it's a good idea to turn off your phone.
Have your music playing in the background - as loud or as low as you like. (I tend to play my favourite healing music and play along with my crystal singing bowl for a little while)
Light your candles and incense if you have them.
When you feel you're ready, write a list of what it is you want to release or let go of. List all the things that have held you back, prevented you from loving yourself or others and stopped you from being the divine and empowered being you truly are. 
These can be sentences that explain what it is and why you are releasing it, or it can be bullet points. The style of this is up to you - this is your ritual, do what feels right for you! It can be as plain or as decorative as you want it to be. If you want to use different colour pens or draw on it, then do so.
(for examples of 'Release Lists', check out the Full Moon Ritual photo album on facebook - Angelic Messages With Attitude).
After you feel your list is complete, read what you have written and either crumple, rip it or fold your list up.
Go outside where your burnproof container is and place a tealight candle in it or simply set fire to your paper, ensuring it is completely burnt and released.
Sometimes when we are reluctant to release a fear or belief, the paper may be stubborn about accepting the fire. Be persistent! Alternatively, sometimes we are really ready to let go of what is on  the list, it burns fast and furious.
While standing, take a few moments to take a deep breath in and imagine a pure clear golden light entering through your crown chakra and then notice how, with each breath you take, it fills your body completely. Visualise it moving down through your head, neck and shoulders, down your arms and into your hands and fingertips. Feel it filling your heartspace, your torso as it goes down through your legs, into your feet and toes
As you breathe out feel your old emotions, beliefs and fears exiting through the soles of your feet and/or streaming out from your fingertips and going deep into the earth, where they can be filtered and cleansed by nature. (You can imagine these as a different colour, but it isn't important) 
Soon the gold light is streaming through you and instead of going into the ground it comes up and creates a bubble of crystal clear gold light around you.
By doing this, you are acknowledging what you have just done, imprinting your intent so the universe, your guides and especially you,  know you are ready to release and renew. It is up to you whether you scatter or bury the ashes or just chuck them in the bin.
Working on ourselves in this way and with the energy as well as our emotions, can leave us a little depleted. So, before you tidy up, sit with your treat (great to do as you admire the beauty of the full moon!).
If you don't notice the change straight away, don't panic, it may take a little while. Some people feel instantly different while others notice a gradual transformation.
When releasing entrenched fears, beliefs and energy, sometimes it is a good idea to smudge your home and self. However, this is an optional .
If you have any questions, please contact me through the comments, through my facebook page or vis angelicattitude@live.com.au.
Full Moon! Blessings to you all!
with love respect and integriy
Cherie