By Katrina Rasbold
As the final days of the year dwindle, a hush falls over the world and we feel a moment of potent stillness before the whirlwind of a new beginning. For those of us who walk a path less trodden, who feel the hum of ancient energies beneath the modern world, this isn’t just a time for champagne toasts and fleeting resolutions. It’s a liminal space, a powerful threshold brimming with magical potential.
This New Year’s Eve, let’s cast aside the fleeting promises and instead, weave intentions into being with the wisdom of the Craft.
Releasing the Old: A Cord-Cutting Ritual
Before we can invite the new, we must release the old. Gather three strands of natural twine or yarn – one for yourself, one for the past year’s burdens, and one for the lessons learned. Tie the strand for yourself to the strand for the past year’s burdens. Tie knots in the section of the conjoined strands that is for burdens as you verbally or silently name the things you wish to leave behind: stagnant energy, self-doubt, past hurts, unhelpful habits.
Then, with a pair of scissors or a sharp knife, declare: “I release that which no longer serves me. I cut the ties that bind me to the past.” Snip the cord that joins the two strands so that the strand for you is separate from the burden strand with the knots. Feel the energetic release. Take the “lessons learned” strand and tie a small charm or bead onto it as a tangible reminder of the wisdom you carry forward. Bury the “burdens” strand in the earth (if possible) or dispose of it with the intention of transformation and release. As with any banishing magic, don’t look back as you walk away from it.
Crafting New Beginnings: A Jar of Intentions
This is where the magic truly begins! Find a clean, empty jar with a lid. On small slips of paper, write down your deepest desires and intentions for the coming year. Be specific, be bold, and be heartfelt. Do you wish for abundance? Write it down. For healing? For creativity? For love? For wisdom? Each intention gets its own slip. Do not filter according to what you think is possible. Dream as big or as small as you wish.
Now, gather herbs and crystals that correspond with your intentions.
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For prosperity: Bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, aventurine, pyrite.
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For love: Rose petals, lavender, rose quartz.
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For protection: Rosemary, black tourmaline, obsidian.
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For creativity: Orange peel, citrine, carnelian.
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For healing: Chamomile, eucalyptus, amethyst.
Layer your intentions and your magical ingredients in the jar. As you add each element, visualize your desire manifesting. Speak your intentions aloud, infusing them with your energy. Once the jar is full, seal it tightly. Place your “Jar of Intentions” on your altar or in a special place where you will see it regularly, reminding you of the magic you are weaving into your life. Burn a votive candle on top of it if you wish to convey additional energy to the act.
Anointing for Empowerment: A Personal Blessing
As the clock ticks towards midnight, take a moment for personal anointing. Choose an essential oil that resonates with your New Year’s intentions – perhaps frankincense for spiritual growth, peppermint for clarity, or orange for joy. Dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba or almond.
Anoint your pulse points, your forehead, and your heart center, speaking words of blessing and empowerment over yourself. “I am open to new opportunities. I am strong, capable, and divinely guided. I step into this new year with grace and power.”
A Midnight Toast to the Universe
Instead of just toasting with champagne, take a moment to pour a small offering to the earth or to the universe. A little wine, water, or even a pinch of herbs, expressing gratitude for the past year and inviting blessings for the year to come.
This New Year’s, let’s not just make resolutions. Let’s weave them into the fabric of our reality. Let’s tap into the ancient rhythms of renewal and rebirth that this season offers.
Happy New Year, Witches, and may your magic be potent and true!
Katrina Rasbold is a professional Witch, published author, priestess, and editor of Green Egg Magazine. She and her husband, Eric, are the creators of the CUSP spiritual path and owners of Crossroads Occult. You can reach her and access her Patreon with deeper classes and mentorship through www.katrinarasbold.com.
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