Well, Windtree, you just pretty much described the basics of what anyone might do to appreciate the day, pay homage, or cast a spell. But, I know what you mean; there are some days where you just want to do a bit more. Plus, I can totally understand the issues you face with lack of privacy and space. Many of us are in the broom closet and can relate to your scenario. Here are a few suggestions to add a little bit more magic and ceremony into such a situation:
Visualization: Learning to perform visualizations effevtively is like being able to carry a whole ceremonial kit and altar within you. Between work and school, I cannot perform many rituals in accordance with planetary hours or specific phases of the sun and moon. But, I can sit at my desk and visualize the process of the ritual and the desired outcome in my mind during the most powerful times. I have actually had much success in maintaining a positive attitude throughout the day by performing such visualizations when I needed them.
Got out in nature: So you say you have limited space and privacy? Go for a walk. One of my favorite things to do as these seasons change and as part of a seasonal ritualize is go to a park or wooded area and spend some hours there with a picnic lunch. I use the time to brush up on my ability to identify the plants and animals and their associated magical properties and symbols. It's also a good time to collect some spell components or just small rocks, feathers, of pieces of wood that call to you.
Add magic to your everyday activities: Waking up, going to bed, cooking, bathing... these are all great opportunities for bits of magic. When you bath, behave as though it is a magical cleansing. You have alll you need, and it's easy to add things to it. Use regular soap if you want to cleanse. For prosperity, add a spice scented soap instead. For love, add a floral scent. Also, cooking and eating can be a magical ritual. When I don't have much money, but want to do something special, I'll simmer some canned soup on the stove and add herbs in accordance with what magic I want. Try adding parsely, rosemary, garlic, or salt for cleansing. For prosperity, add basil or allspice. Poppy seed and cinnamon are great for love. Have a cup of tea. I believe in the Young Pagan section, I have a list of the magical properties of popular herbal teas:
http://www.paganliving.org/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=4454 . You can't get much simpler than boiling water
These are a few suggestions, and we have many more things on the board I am sure you can adapt to your use. It looks like you are on the right track already. Honestly, aside from when I have planned rituals, my basic activity is to burn incense at my altar twice a day in recognition.
Windtree, I think as long as you apperciate each day, you are doing a wonderful job. There are many different types of rituals and ceremonies. Just find one that works for you.
