As the vibrant colors of autumn fade into the stillness of winter, we are invited to release what no longer serves us. The shortening days and cooling winds remind us to turn inward, reflecting on what we need to shed to make space for new growth. This season is perfect for letting go—of old habits, lingering energy, or even emotions that we’ve carried for too long. Below, I’ve crafted a few simple yet powerful rituals that you can tailor to your own practice.
The Leaf Release Spell
Tools: A dried autumn leaf, pen, candle
How To:
- On the leaf, write down something you’re ready to release—whether it’s a feeling, an old belief, or a pattern that holds you back.
- Light the candle and hold the leaf in your hands.
- As you watch the flame flicker, visualize the weight of what you’re releasing lifting from you.
- When ready, scatter the ashes to the wind or earth, symbolizing that the energy has been returned to nature.
Best Time: At sunset, when the day transitions to night, just as you are transitioning toward a new chapter.
Additional Reading: Consider exploring more about elemental magic and earth-based rituals in “The Way of the Hedgewitch” by Arin Murphy-Hiscock for grounding practices that enhance your release work.
Cord Cutting Ritual
Tools: Two black candles, a piece of string, scissors
How To:
- Set up the two candles, representing yourself and the attachment you’re ready to sever.
- Tie the string between them, visualizing the energy that binds you to what you’re releasing.
- As you light the candles, watch the flame grow, and when you feel ready, cut the string in the middle.
- Imagine the attachment dissolving, allowing your energy to be freed. Let the candles burn out safely, and bury the string remnants to signify finality.
Best Time: New moon, when the energy supports new beginnings.
Further Exploration: For deeper work on energetic attachments and emotional healing, check out “Energy Work: The Secrets of Healing and Spiritual Growth” by Robert Bruce, a fantastic resource on energy flow and cleansing.
Burning Bowl Ceremony
Tools: A fireproof bowl or cauldron, paper, pen, matches or lighter
How To:
- Write down what you’re letting go of—emotions, worries, or regrets—on small pieces of paper.
- Set the papers in the bowl, lighting them one by one.
- Watch as the flames transform them into ash, carrying your intentions into the ether.
- Once the papers are all burned, release the ash into the wind or bury it in the ground.
Best Time: During a waning moon, when the energy is focused on release.
For Your Practice: Delve deeper into the symbolism of fire and transformation in “The Witch’s Book of Self-Care” by Arin Murphy-Hiscock, which offers many healing rituals for letting go.
Water Release Ritual
Tools: A river, lake, or bowl of water, stones
How To:
- If you can find a flowing body of water, bring with you a small stone or crystal that represents what you’re ready to release.
- Hold the stone, filling it with the energy you wish to let go of.
- Speak your intentions aloud, then toss the stone into the water, trusting the current to carry it away.
- If you’re using a bowl of water, submerge the stone and dispose of the water afterward in a respectful way—like watering a plant.
Best Time: Full moon, when emotions are heightened, and release is most powerful.
For Reflection: To complement this ritual, you might enjoy learning about water magic in “Water Witchcraft: Magic and Lore from the Celtic Tradition” by Annwyn Avalon, offering techniques for working with the cleansing power of water.
Releasing Breathwork
Tools: None (your breath)
How To:
- Find a quiet space and settle into your body.
- Close your eyes and breathe deeply.
- On each exhale, visualize letting go of whatever is weighing you down.
- With every breath, feel yourself growing lighter, more grounded, and at peace.
- After several minutes, place your hands on your heart, thanking yourself for this release.
Best Time: Anytime you feel the need for immediate release.
Deeper Learning: Explore breathwork and its role in energetic cleansing in “The Healing Power of Breath” by Richard Brown and Patricia Gerbarg, a comprehensive guide to calming and balancing the mind, body, and spirit.
Shadow Work Journaling Prompt:
- What have you been holding onto that no longer serves your highest self?
- How does it feel to release this energy as we approach the quieter months?
Take time to journal after your rituals, letting your inner voice guide you through this period of letting go. These small yet powerful practices will help you feel grounded as you transition into winter’s quieter, reflective energy.
I hope these rituals offer you the space to release and find peace and grow. Remember, letting go is an act of self-love, making room for growth in the months ahead. Blessed be, and may your journey be filled with light as you move through this season of transformation.
