Practicing New Year’s Magic

Coventry Creations Road Opener Candle and Wicked Good Cinnamon Oil

When we think of the New Year our thoughts automatically drift to change, resolutions, rebirth, renewal… a new start. All things that are also fundamental to Magic or the Craft. Witchcraft traditions vary widely among practitioners, and New Year's celebrations can be incorporated into magical practices in many different ways.

Here are some general ideas and traditions that I like to follow during the New Year celebration:

Setting Intentions and Resolutions:

• Many people, regardless of their spiritual beliefs, use the New Year as a time to set intentions and resolutions for the coming months. Witches may perform rituals or spells to focus their energy on specific goals and growth they wish to manifest. I love the Road Opener candle for this. Whether you start it right after midnight or first thing when you wake up. It can set the tone for the year to come.

Cleansing and Purification:

• The transition from one year to the next can be seen as a powerful time for cleansing and purifying one's space and energy. Some might perform rituals to rid themselves of negative energies from the past year and create a fresh start. 

• Fire is often associated with transformation and purification so holding a burning bowl or  lighting a bonfire can symbolize letting go of the old and welcoming the new. Burning written intentions or symbols on bay leaves can be a powerful way to release energy.

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Divination for the Year Ahead:

• Witches often use divination tools, such as tarot cards, runes, or scrying, to gain insights into the energies and events that may unfold in the coming year. This can help guide them in making informed decisions and navigating challenges.

Midnight Rituals:

• Midnight on New Year's Eve is a potent time for magical workings. Some witches may choose to perform rituals, spells, or meditation at this time to harness the energy of the transition between the old and the new year.

Feasting and Offerings:

• Sharing a feast or making offerings to deities, spirits, or energies that are significant to the practitioner is a common tradition. This can symbolize gratitude for the past year and a request for blessings in the coming one. There are a bunch of different food traditions around New Years. Grapes, Black eyed peas, Apples & Honey.  I personally always eat cabbage on New Years Day.

Remember that the Craft is a highly personal and diverse practice. It's essential to choose practices that resonate with you personally and align with your beliefs and intentions. Just do what feels right for you and yours, and have a Magical New Year!

-Tj