Intention Setting Ritual
Intention Setting Ritual
A Yule ritual for families can be a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year. Yule is a time for introspection, renewal, and celebrating the return of the sun's light. Here's a simple Yule ritual that is family-friendly and can be adapted to suit your beliefs and traditions:
**Do not leave burning candles unattended and always practice fire safety.
Materials You Will Need:
A decorated Yule log
Colored paper, markers, and other craft supplies
Candles (white, red, and green are traditional Yule colors)
Yule storybook
Matches or a lighter
Steps for the Yule Intention Setting Ritual with Children:
Prepare the Space: Begin the ritual by cleansing the space. You can do this by smudging, cleansing spray, or incense while explaining that this helps clear any negativity. Set up your altar, table, or hearth with Yule log and have craft materials nearby.
Circle of Protection: If your family tradition involves casting a protective circle, do so now. If not, gather as a family in a circle and hold hands to symbolize unity and protection.
Talk About Intentions: Have a conversation with the children about what intentions are. Explain that intentions are like wishes or goals they want to achieve in the coming year. Encourage them to think about what they want to accomplish or experience.
Decorate Intention Cards: Provide the children with colored paper and markers. Have them write or draw their intentions for the year on the cards. This can include things like "I want to be kind to others," "I want to learn to play the piano," or "I want to spend more time with my family." Let them be creative and decorate their cards, if desired.
Share Intentions: Allow each child to share their intention with the family. Encourage them to explain why this intention is important to them.
Place Intentions on the altar: After each child has shared their intention, place their intention card on the altar. Explain that this symbolizes their commitment to their goals.
Candle Lighting: Each child can take a turn lighting a candle while making a special wish related to their intention. For example, if a child's intention is to be kind to others, they might light a candle and say, "I wish for kindness in my heart." You can also use specific colored candles for different intentions. For example, white for purity, red for love, and green for growth.
Feast and Treats: Enjoy a special Yule feast or treat with the children. Discuss how celebrating with loved ones is also an important part of Yule. You can also exchange gifts at this time.
Song and Dance(optional): Sing Yule carols or play festive music. Dancing around the Yule log or in your living room can be a fun and energetic way to celebrate.
Closing the Ritual: Thank the elements and any deities you may believe in for their presence. Release the circle or simply hold hands one last time as a family to signify the unity and love within your household.
Yule Log Release: Burn the Yule log in a fireplace or an outdoor fire pit (alternative: let the candles burn down). Explain that the intentions have been released, and they should continue to work towards their goals in the coming year. As the log burns, read a Yule related story poem together as a family. Once the Yule log has burned down, take a piece of it and keep it as a symbol of the light and warmth you are bringing into the new year. You can use it as kindling for next year's Yule log.
