An arrow directed toward a goal symbolises a masculine quality.
Men possess a remarkable ability to orient themselves toward a goal or a task and move straight toward it.
Even the masculine organ carries the form of a directed arrow. The seeds are sent forward like an arrow toward the egg. Men tend to function in a linear way.
The feminine quality of intention
Women, on the other hand, carry different qualities. Our movement is circular. The feminine cycle, the womb, the breasts. We move in circles and cycles.
It is interesting that in certain Indigenous traditions, the arrow symbolises protection. Beyond the obvious fact that it is a tool that can be used for defence, I see another layer of protection.
When we hold a clear intention and the ability to do what is required to realise it, we protect ourselves from dispersion, confusion, and from living a life driven only by immediate impulses.
When intention becomes embodied
There is a deep spiritual essence in an arrow directed toward a goal. In order to reach the target, we must become one with the arrow and one with the goal.
We must become one with our deeper intention and with its embodiment.
The arrow as a directed intention protects us from the negation of our capacities and from the non-realisation of our desires and abilities.
The arrow as a directed intention allows us to refine ourselves again and again, and to remain aligned with our deeper desires.
Because this is considered a masculine quality, we as women must cultivate it. We must engage with it repeatedly and practise it until it becomes second nature.
A practice for cyclical women
I invite you to sit quietly, even for a few minutes, turn inward, and ask yourself: what are your deeper intentions at this time? What would you like to create in your life? And how might you do so?
Afterwards, prepare a list of actions you will need to take in order to realise your goal.
To deepen this practice further, I recommend doing this in the days following menstruation
These days are especially supportive for choosing goals and taking action. After releasing during menstruation what needs to be let go, new inner tissue begins to form, and with it, new intentions to move toward.
Each day leading up to ovulation, you become filled with increasing energy and focus. These days offer a powerful opportunity to act on your intentions and bring your wishes into form and expression.