As we come to the close of 2021, we find ourselves looking back on the year behind us, as we prepare to step into the new year ahead. For many of us the new year welcomes a renewal, a chance to start fresh. Some might make resolutions, whether to stop a bad habit or start a healthy new routine, while others may connect to the ritual of cleaning out their home and getting organized. As the Winter Solstice (December 21st) approaches, we feel the shortest day/longest night of the year is the perfect time to clear stale or negative energy from the heart and home. One ritual we love is this simple clearing with fire. Incorporating fire during Winter Solstice rituals is an age-old tradition, considered particularly important during the longest night of the year.
Winter Solstice Fire Clearing
- Fireproof vessel with lid nearby for safety (small 6 inch cast iron skillets, or other cast iron cookware work great)
- 1 cup rubbing alcohol
- 1 cup epsom salt
- Pot holder(s)
- Lighter or tapered candle
Find a quiet, comfortable seat in your favorite outdoor area, patio, or yard. Make sure your fire proof vessel is on a protected surface, such as nestled into a larger cast iron skillet, or on a trivet. Pour 1 cup of epsom salt into the fire proof pot then pour 1 cup rubbing alcohol, a little bit at a time, onto it. You want the salt damp, not soaking. Then light the alcohol/salt mixture using a long match, long lighter, or a long tapered candle.
As the flame ignites imagine it burning away any stagnant, negative, or heavy energies. As you sit and watch the flame burn, visualize these energies leaving your life. Visualize a clean slate for what is to come. When the flame has burned away, close the meditation by bringing your hands to your heart and offering yourself some kind words of affirmation. Optional to cleanse yourself and the salt fire remains with a plant smoke such as a vetiver incense bundle to steer out any remaining unwanted energy. Dispose of the salt to close the ritual and thank it for the support.
*Make sure the pot is cool before disposing of the salt that remains.
**When working with fire, we encourage smart fire safety. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and never leave open fire unattended.