For centuries, indigenous people across varying cultures have used fire and smoke as a carrier and symbol for their thoughts and prayers. They believe that the smoke ushers their prayers to the Great Spirit or higher being.

Burning rituals are still used today as a means to relinquish the past and rid one’s consciousness of unwanted memories and conditions. This helps to make space for new positive beginnings.

Let’s start 2021 fresh by letting go of any stagnant energies from our  past. And, yes, that means ridding yourself of any stubborn negativity or resentment you may still hold inside you – for any reason whatsoever.

The best way I know of to clean your internal slate and unload this hidden burden is through a personal fire ritual.

Here is how to perform the fire ritual…

A Cleansing Fire Ritual

With New Year’s Eve approaching, it’s the perfect time to participate in a transformative fire ritual of your own. During this burning ritual, fire symbolizes wisdom, knowledge, and purification. It helps to cleanse your mind and body allowing you to redirect your focus on what truly matters. The countdown is on to the new year, follow these steps to leave 2020 behind…

Step 1: Create and Prepare Your Ceremony Space

The first thing you want to do in preparation for your ceremony is to find a sacred space. This can be your living room, bedroom, or even outside under the stars by a fire pit. Select a space where you feel comfortable. Dim the lights or use candlelight if you’re indoors.

Step 2: Balance Your Space

You want to find a balance that works for you. The goal is to feel grounded and calm. To achieve this, try adding crystals or using essential oils.

Crystals have an innate ability to direct energy and reset your mind. Some great ones to use include:

Amazonite – Often referred to as the Stone of Hope or Courage, this blue-green stone helps to bring hope and success to new beginnings (something we could definitely use in 2021).

Black Kyanite – Possessing the same healing properties as its blue counterpart (cuts through fears and encourages honest communication), the black kyanite also helps to keep you grounded and ward off negative energy.

Clear Quartz – One of the most versatile stones, clear quartz helps to clear out negativity and provide strength and clarity.

Along with crystals, essential oils also offer comfort and guidance. Try the following essential oils to help in your healing process and spiritual new beginning:

Resin Oils – Frankincense and myrrh are fantastic healers. If you feel beaten up – physically and/or mentally – these resin oils help to heal wounds while promoting spiritual awareness.

Leaf Oils – This includes eucalyptus, peppermint, and spearmint are great for breathing in new life. They help to release leftover emotions that may be holding you down.

Root Oils – Just as the roots of a plant anchor it to the soil, root oils including ginger, cedarwood, and cypress help to center your Qi by moving energy through the body and offering stability and wisdom.

Step 3: Write Down What You Want to Release

On little slips of paper, write down the things you want to let go of. You should feel an emotional charge as soon as the pen hits the paper. You can go into detail about the items you are relinquishing or just list a word or two. These words represent the old wounds, unhealthy patterns, and negativity that you’re ridding your mind and body of.

Step 4: Take a Deep Breath and Prepare Your Mind

Read through each word or description one last time. Empty your mind and open your heart. Let the emotions flow as you prepare to release them.

Step 5: Ignite Each Paper One by One

Using a lighter, candle, or open flame, light the corner of each paper one at a time and drop it into a fire-proof bowl or fire pit. As you set each paper on fire, say aloud “I choose to release you now.” Imagine that the smoke is carrying your unwanted thoughts releasing you of them.

Step 6: Close Your Eyes and Reflect

After all papers and thoughts have been burned, close your eyes and meditate for a moment. Focus on what you have learned and accept closure as your past is cleansed.

You’re now ready to start allowing new positive and fulfilling experiences into your life without being affected by past negativity. You’re ready to start a new year with clear intentions and endless possibilities.

To conclude your ceremony, we offer you this prayer.

Hopi Sun Prayer

You who are the source of all power,

Your rays illuminate the whole world,

Illuminate our hearts also,

So we too may do your work.

Wishing you a happy and healthy new year with new beginnings from your friends at The Sacred Science.

Stay curious,

Nick Polizzi
Host of Proven: Healing Breakthroughs Backed By Science
& Founder of The Sacred Science