As we approach the dawn of 2025, we find ourselves in a time of reflection, release, and renewal. The energy of the new year carries a profound numerological significance—2025 is a Universal Year 9. In numerology, the number 9 represents the end of a cycle, a moment to complete unfinished business and prepare for new beginnings. This makes it the perfect time to embrace rituals that help us let go of the old and welcome the new with open hearts and minds.
One powerful practice to align with this energy is candle magic. This ancient, transformative ritual uses the symbolic power of fire to release what no longer serves us and create space for fresh opportunities. Here, we’ll explore the origins, benefits, and steps of a simple candle magic ritual for the new year, along with insights to help you maximize its potential.
What Is Candle Magic?
Candle magic is a practice that dates back to ancient times. From the fire rituals of early pagan traditions to the candle-lit prayers of many spiritual ceremonies, fire has always been seen as a transformative force. The flame represents light, clarity, and renewal—it’s a physical manifestation of change. When paired with intention, a candle becomes a powerful tool. Lighting it turns a simple act into a symbolic gesture, channeling your focus and energy toward a specific purpose-whether that’s manifesting your dreams or releasing what holds you back.
What are the Benefits of a Candle Magic Ritual you ask?
Mental Clarity: The act of writing down what you want to release and focusing on the candle flame helps organize your thoughts and emotions. This clarity can make it easier to set intentions for the year ahead.
Emotional Release: Physically engaging with your intentions—writing them down, placing them under the candle, and visualizing their release—helps you process and let go of lingering emotions.
Spiritual Alignment: Fire has a deep spiritual symbolism, representing transformation and connection to higher energies. A candle ritual can create a sense of alignment with the universal flow of energy, especially in a Universal Year 9.
Stress Reduction: Engaging in ritualistic practices has been shown to reduce anxiety. The combination of mindfulness, meditation, and intention-setting offers a grounding sense of peace.
Empowerment: By consciously letting go of the past, you’re taking an active role in shaping your future. This act of self-determination is incredibly empowering.
I attended a woman's circle in Victoria, BC, Canada, led by the most amazing facilitator, Jonni-Lyn (www.jonnilynfriel.com, Muse Mind & Body Studio). During this gathering, we engaged in a candle ritual that was so powerful for me, I wanted to share it with you!
A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Candle Magic Ritual
What You’ll Need:
A tealight candle (or any small candle of your choice)
A piece of paper and a pen
A quiet, safe space where you won’t be disturbed
The Ritual
1. Light Your Candle: Begin by lighting your tealight and grounding yourself. Take a few deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Focus on the warm, steady glow of the flame, allowing it to center your thoughts.
2. Write Down What You Want to Release: On a piece of paper, write down the things you wish to let go of. These could be fears, habits, old beliefs, or anything that feels heavy or outdated. Be honest and specific.
3. Place the Paper Under the Candle: Once you’ve written your intentions, fold the paper and place it beneath the candle. Silently or out loud, affirm your readiness to release these things. For example: “I release all that no longer serves my highest good.”
4. Meditate: (Please find below) Close your eyes and focus on your breath. Imagine the flame transforming the energy of what you’re releasing. Picture these things dissolving and being carried away, leaving behind clarity and peace. Stay in this meditation for as long as feels natural.
5. Conclude the Ritual: When you feel ready, open your eyes and express gratitude for the clarity and space you’ve created. Let the candle burn out completely if it’s safe, or extinguish it mindfully, thanking it for its role in your transformation.
Insights for the Universal Year 9
A Universal Year 9 is a time of endings, but it’s also a time of harvest. The seeds you planted in previous years have grown, and now you have the opportunity to reap the wisdom and lessons they’ve provided. It’s a year to reflect deeply, forgive freely, and embrace closure with grace.
As you move through 2025, keep these themes in mind:
Declutter Your Life: Let go of physical, emotional, and mental clutter. This will make space for what’s truly important.
Honor Your Growth: Take time to acknowledge how far you’ve come. Celebrate your wins and learn from your challenges.
Prepare for New Beginnings: As you release the old, you’re paving the way for the fresh energy of a Universal Year 1 in 2026—a year of new cycles and opportunities.
Closing Thoughts
Attending Jonni-Lyn’s (www.jonnilynfriel.com) circle and participating in this candle ritual was a profound experience for me, and I hope this guide inspires you to create your own transformative moment as we step into 2025. Letting go is never easy, but it’s a necessary step in embracing growth, change, and all the possibilities of a new year. May this ritual help you release with grace and welcome the new with open arms.
Sending Love and Kindness
Happy New Year!!
Cheers, Kelly
"Shifts Happen when you Practice the Pause"
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