The four cardinal directions invoked in American Indian prayer correspond to the four Archangels in the Judeo-Christian tradition. These angelic forces of healing and guidance can be invoked as a long meditation any time during the day, or as a short prayer before falling asleep. After a little practice, you will literally feel wrapped in a soft blanket of angelic presence.

Sit or lie down, close your eyes and take a few letting go breaths. Center yourself in belly breathing for a few minutes. Place your awareness on the space in front of you, the Eastern Gate of your body temple. Ask for the presence of the Archangel Uriel, whose name in Hebrew means "The Light of God." Stay centered and notice whatever you can about Uriel's presence. Review your current situation, thinking of areas where you need more clarity. Ask Uriel for any help you need in making decisions or in discrimination.

Place your awareness to your right, the Southern Gate of your body temple. Ask for the presence of the Archangel Michael, whose name in Hebrew means "How Like Unto God." Michael is the pure presence of love, forgiveness and wisdom. Stay centered and notice whatever you can about this presence. Review your current situation, thinking of any areas in which love or forgiveness needs to flow. Ask for any insights or help you require.

Place your awareness in back of you, the Western Gate of your body temple. Ask for the presence of the Archangel Raphael, whose name in Hebrew means "The Healer of God." Stay centered and notice whatever you can about Raphael's presence. Review your current situation, thinking of any emotional, physical or spiritual healing you may need. Ask Raphael for that healing. Think, too, about the healing you can bring to others and ask for any help you might need.

Place your awareness to your left, the Northern Gate of your body temple. Ask for the presence of the Archangel Gabriel, whose name in Hebrew means "the strength of God." Stay centered and notice whatever you can about this presence. Gabriel is the angel who helps us overcome fear so that we may bring forth our creative gifts for the benefit of all. Review your current situation and ask for the removal of fear, as well as for help in realizing your creativity.

Become aware of a star of loving light above your head. Feel the Divine Light wash over you like a waterfall and flow through you the way that a river flows through the sand at its bottom. Let the light wash every cell clean, carrying away any fatigue, dis-ease, heaviness or pain. As the light flows through you, imagine that it is dissolving any darkness from around your heart, allowing the Sun within you to shine forth brightly as a blessing to all beings. Conclude with a prayer of thanksgiving for all the gifts of your life, and the most priceless gift of all- life itself.

Blessed Be.