Why We’re Setting Intentions This 8/8: The Lion's Gate Portal

We have always loved setting intentions around this time of year. In many ways, it feels more aligned, inspiring and fun than making New Year’s resolutions on January 1st.

August has a different kind of energy. We are still enjoying the warmth and abundance of summer, but we are also beginning to sense the shift into a new season. In astrology and numerology, this is also considered one of the most energetically powerful times of the year, making it a beautiful moment to think bigger and get clear about what we want to create.

There are so many great books and teachings around manifestation. I recently read and loved Matt Cooke’s book, Beyond Wanting: The Art of True Manifestation. Matt recommends writing eight intentions for the Lion’s Gate Portal, and I loved the idea of turning that practice into a simple 8/8 ritual to share with you.

What Is the Lion’s Gate Portal?

In astrology and modern spiritual traditions, the Lion’s Gate Portal is connected to Leo season, the star Sirius, and the number eight. The portal is commonly said to be open from July 26 through August 12, with its energy reaching its peak on August 8. The date 8/8 is considered the most powerful day of the portal for setting intentions and manifesting. 

In numerology, eight represents abundance, balance, personal power, and infinite possibility. Turn the number eight on its side and you even get the infinity symbol. When the date doubles to 8/8, that energy is believed to be amplified. Also - the year 26 (2+6=8) makes it a triple 8 this year!

Whether you follow astrology closely or simply love an excuse for a meaningful reset, we think 8/8 is a beautiful opportunity to check in with yourself.

What are you ready to welcome into your life?

What are you ready to let go of?

And what small action could move you closer to the life you want?

A Simple 8/8 Manifesting Practice

You do not need crystals, candles, or an elaborate ritual for this one, although you are always welcome to add anything that makes the moment feel special. All you need is a quiet space, a piece of paper, and a few uninterrupted minutes.

1. Take eight slow breaths

Start with a meditation practice.  Close your eyes and take eight deep, intentional breaths. Let your shoulders soften, quiet your mind, and give yourself permission to be fully present.

2. Begin with gratitude

Before thinking about what you want to create, take a moment to notice what is already good.

Write down a few things you are grateful for. They can be big things, like your health or the people you love, and beautifully ordinary things, like your morning coffee, a walk with a friend, or a really delicious meal.

Gratitude shifts our attention toward abundance and reminds us that manifesting is not only about wanting more. It is also about appreciating what we already have.

3. Write eight intentions

Now ask yourself:

What would I love to welcome into my life over the next year?

Write down eight intentions. They can relate to your health, relationships, work, creativity, finances, travel, personal growth, or anything else that feels meaningful to you.

Try writing each intention in the present tense, as though it is already beginning to unfold.

Instead of:

I want to feel healthier.

Try:

I am creating a strong, energized body by nourishing myself and moving in ways that feel good.

Instead of:

I want more balance.

Try:

I am creating space for rest, connection, creativity, and joy.

Choose intentions that feel exciting, meaningful, and genuinely yours.

4. Connect with the feeling

Close your eyes and imagine that your intentions are already becoming your reality.

How do you feel?

What does your day look like?

How are you showing up differently?

One of the ideas I loved most in Beyond Wanting is that manifestation is about more than simply wanting something. Matt explains that we don’t necessarily want the thing itself as much as we want the way we believe it will make us feel. The practice is about connecting with that feeling now, as if what we are manifesting is already beginning to unfold.

5. Take one aligned action

Manifesting is not simply making a wish and waiting for the universe to deliver. It is getting clear about what you want, believing it is possible, and taking steps toward it. I like the mantra "Think. Feel. Act"

Choose one of your eight intentions and write down one small thing you can do today to support it. Send the email. Schedule the walk. Make the appointment. Clear an hour from your calendar. Prepare a nourishing meal. Begin before you feel completely ready.

Then fold up your paper and put it away. I keep it folded in the front of a journal or calendar in case I want to revisit it - but you don't have to.  The point is to get aligned with your intentions, and then let it go.  

The Lion’s Gate Portal may sound a little mystical, but its message is wonderfully practical: pause, listen to yourself, set your intentions, and move forward with purpose.

If you are interested in learning more, check out Matt's book  Beyond Wanting or follow along on Instagram at @mattcookecoach. He shares thoughtful practices for bringing manifestation into everyday life - and real life examples of how it works! 

Happy 8/8! Here’s to dreaming big, trusting what is possible, and taking one beautiful, intentional step in that direction.