Take a pause this holiday season with my soothing candle ritual
Calm anxiety with some gentle candle magic
Let’s be honest, the festive season can be stressful. It shouldn’t be, but it is. We have been conditioned to believe that the only way to have a successful Christmas is to spend a fortune finding everybody the perfect gift, to spend hours shopping, cooking and cleaning, being the perfect host and being the perfect guest even. It’s utterly exhausting. Why do we put so much pressure on ourselves? Personally, I’d be very happy to spend Christmas eating takeaway in my pyjamas, hunkered down in a cottage by the sea somewhere, with no expectations or pressures weighing me down. I just need this time of year to be restful and calm, a time to spend with loved ones, yes, but on my own terms.
If you’re also finding this time of year a bit dizzying, take a quiet moment to gently soothe and ground yourself with this beautiful little ritual.
What you’ll need:
✷ A small natural candle (sustainable beeswax or soy)
✷ A cosy corner or chair
✷A notebook or small piece of paper and a pen
✷Optional: calming music or nature sounds
Steps:
1. Set the Scene
Light your candle and dim the lights around you. Sit comfortably and take three slow, deep breaths. Let your shoulders drop and your body settle.
2. Ground Yourself
Place your hand on your heart and take a moment to acknowledge how you feel. Name one word for your current state—“tired,” “rushed,” “hopeful,” etc.—without judgment.
3. Create a Tiny Offering
On your piece of paper, write one thing you want to let go of—stress, expectation, overwhelm. Then, write one intention or joy you want to invite—peace, warmth, connection, or even a tiny delight like a favourite tea or a quiet morning.
4. Release & Receive
Hold the paper in your hands for a moment. Visualize the stress melting away like candlelight, then fold it and place it somewhere safe, or gently burn it (if safe to do so) as a symbolic release. Let the intention stay with you.
5. Close with Gratitude
Take three more deep breaths and silently thank yourself for this pause. Blow out the candle slowly, imagining your intention carried into the days ahead.
Remember to take some time for yourself over this busy period. Practice this ritual as much as you need to, take a hot bath and remember to move your body whenever you can.
Lots of love,
