Autumn conjures up vivid musing for me-the smell of roasting pumpkins, pumpkin spice lattes, and children giggling as they weave their way through a hay maze.
I see the Autumn traditions, a deep tradition that I’ve loved taking part in, as it spans from mid-September until mid-December, as a way to unwind and dig into anything Hygge.
The Danish and Norwegian word referring to a feeling of well-being, a joyful mood and a warm, cozy place. AKA My kind of afternoon.
It’s that special time of year when I can wear oversized sweaters, cute boots, and neatly tuck my hair under a beanie during one of those frosty mornings.
I have a soft spot for the warmth and coziness of Autumn, if I’m being honest.
Turns out I’m not the only one who enjoys the mystic and magic of the Autumn season.
I was scrolling through Instagram when I discovered The Glasgow Witch, who was talking about planting seeds (manifestations)..
She had some good advice, and I thought the practice of this magical autumn ritual was something that might help those troubled by the up coming holiday season. Or suffer from SAD-seasonal Affective Disorder.
SAD is a type of depression that lasts during the darker months of the year, or is sufferered by populations who live in areas where there is less access to the sun.
Rauhnachte-a “new” (magical) tradition
To actively engage with this seasonal practice, I adopted the recommended ritual, which is meticulously structured to foster reflection and intentionality.
Here’s what you do!
Beginning several days before the Winter Solstice on December 21st, write down thirteen personal aspirations or intentions, using affirmative language such as ‘I am’ or ‘I have.
After recording each intention, fold the individaul notes and store them securely. You want to choose a safe, dark place. Again think of these pieces of paper as seeds you need to nurish in soil.
Also, don’t read them again after you’ve folded them.
Tip: Take your time writing these intentions out; you don’t have to write them all at once. you have time. Maybe one or two every couple of days until you’ve completed all 13.
Commencing on the night of the Solstice, you initiate a consecutive thirteen-night period during which a single note is selected and burned in a candle flame each evening.
This sequential process is designed to symbolically release each intention, facilitating a transformative progression toward personal growth as the new year approaches.
Tip: If you’ve heard something similar to this, you might be thinking of therapy when a therapist tells you to write a dead relative or someone who has passed on, either in life or end of life. After you write the letter, you burn it, releasing it into the universe.
Let the Magic of Autumn Grow
Upon completion of the ritual, only a single intention remains unburned; this remaining note is retained as a personal responsibility.
The convention serves not only to distinguish a singular, actionable goal but also emphasizes individual accountability, highlighting the ongoing commitment required to nurture personal growth beyond the collective ceremonial experience.
The remaining seed is yours to cherish and tend to as you would a beloved plant in the garden. While each seed you burned is a part of you, those will come into fruition in time.
This magical ritual takes you through the traditional activity in Rauhnachte.. A new (old) tradition to manifest your positive energy into the new year.
In honor of new traditions, try to embrace the enchanting magic of the season and give yourself permission to dream boldly.
Take a moment to write down 13 aspirations you truly want to see come to life—With each seed you plant, you’re not just making an affirmation —you’re taking a powerful step toward transforming your intentions into reality.
Let this tradition inspire you with renewed purpose.
Cheers to good vibes, good intentions, and becoming everything you’ve ever planned for yourself.
Until next time
Christina
