Releasing Shadows, Embracing Light
A Season of Renewal
The Spring season presents a real opportunity for renewal, revitalization, and fresh starts. For this reason, it seems serendipitous that the Spring Equinox, or Ostara, was celebrated this year during the Waning Moon; a time when we release that which is no longer serving us in preparation for the seeds we want to plant come the New Moon. As I thought about this with a friend early last week, we thought this would be a perfect time to release the blocks in our lives that we felt were contributing to stagnation and subsequently, frustration.
Both my friend and I are currently in large states of flux and change, and we’ve both recently realized that our life experiences aren’t aligning with the lifestyles we want to live. Yet, we’re also well aware that at the same time change can be exhilarating and awe-inspiring, it can also be terrifying and emotionally draining. Thus, having recognized that we needed to make changes, we embraced the idea that in order to do so, we would each have to release fear, doubt, anxiety, shame, and past expectations. As we discussed our plans for releasing, we felt we had to make the most of not only the waning moon period that we were just beginning, but also the magick of the Spring Equinox, right around the corner.
Just as the moon was truly starting to wane this month (March, 2025), I got to work on a ritual for release of fear and a blossoming of renewal. The idea for the ritual was to release for the two weeks of the waning moon through the New Moon. In the middle of that two week period, on the Equinox, we would then add a cultivation of revitalization and alignment in addition to the release of fear and doubt that we’ve been doing in the first phase. Now, as we continue through this waning moon phase, I want to take a moment to share my thoughts on the reasoning behind this ritual, reflect on my experiences so far, and, of course, provide the ritual itself. My hopes are that this post inspires readers to embrace the changing of seasons and lunar cycles, to find their own release and renewal, and to appreciate the balance between letting go and growth.
Why Now? The Power of Release into Renewal
The waning moon is a lunar cycle that isn’t as highly regarded as the New or Full Moons are, rather it’s often ignored by myself and by at least a few other magickal practitioners. I’m particularly guilty of putting all of my manifestation energy into the New Moon through the Full Moon, really utilizing the increasing energy of the waxing moon to its fullest potential. Who doesn’t have something they want to manifest into their lives?
While the New and Full Moons are highly revered, as they are quite potent and powerful, the Waning Moon can be just as influential and, in my opinion, is the place to start when you are working through manifestation work of any kind. The reason I believe this is because I recognize that it’s incredibly difficult to manifest something when there’s no room for it in your life. However, when we take time to consciously release at the waning moon, we create more space for things to flow to us and a “vacuum effect” takes place. So the power of the waning moon, to me, is like cleaning your workspace before you start a project or weeding your garden before you plant new seeds. It has definitely been proven to me that my work is more efficient and more productive when I start projects in an organized fashion, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
In addition to creating space for new things to blossom, I believe that this release also acts as fuel for our new endeavors. I tend to follow the path of transmutation in my personal practice, meaning rather than just removing negativity or things that no longer serve, I work to transmute those things into blessings. Thus, the parts of my life that no longer serve aren’t just left behind; rather, they are transformed into their highest potential (or fuel, if you will), further instilling the “vacuum effect” that I had mentioned earlier.
With Ostara aligning with the waning moon, I knew this was a rare opportunity to harness powerful energy. By alchemically combining the releasing energies of the waning moon with the renewal of the Equinox, I could create something truly transformative. For me, this ritual has been about releasing fear by converting it into fuel so that I can begin to blossom on Ostara through the New Moon. That said, my intention is NOT to say that you should wait until the next Spring Equinox that happens on a waning moon (you could be waiting a while) if you are interested in attempting the ritual below for yourself. Rather, my intention is to highlight the potential and strength available to us when we attune to the cycles around us and combine multiple sources of energy towards a common goal. This understanding, for me, embodies The Magician in tarot, the ultimate manifester. His power doesn’t come from thin air but from skillfully channeling the energies of the elements and natural cycles to create alchemy and transformation.
My Journey Through Change
Though this ritual isn’t over yet, I’ve already noticed profound shifts in my mind, body, heart, and spirit; shifts I feel compelled to share. As I mentioned earlier, this ritual for me has been about releasing fear and doubt so that I can cultivate new energy, inspiration, and courage. I’ve been predominantly wrestling with this idea that I want to make more of an impact on other people and contribute to the well-being of others and Mother Earth more directly.
When I started this ritual on Sunday, March 16th, I didn’t have many plans set in stone for my life and I did not know where the ritual would lead me. While I hadn’t expected much to change over the first day of this two-week journey, I was incredibly surprised to wake up feeling more energized than I have in a really long time. I do fully acknowledge the placebo effect and attribute much of that first day's inspiration to it. That said, I also recognize that magick is the combination of energy (alchemical elements) and willpower (mindset), and so regardless of whether it was mind over matter or a magickal change, the results were there.
On the second full day (March 18th), I woke up feeling incredibly confident and there was a resounding thought in my head; “I create the life I choose, and it is those choices that allow me to steer the ship and/or course correct”. I’ve heard this sentiment echoed in countless spiritual circles, but this was the first time it truly landed for me. I realized just how uncomfortable I had become with my lifestyle and just how much I had removed myself from my own spirituality and magick, all because of choices I had made unconsciously and without the proper mindfulness, mindset, and awareness. I sat with this “Aha” for most of the morning and the power that I felt brewing inside me because of it.
That morning’s realization made one thing clear, I needed to course-correct. So on that day, I submitted a letter of resignation to the corporate job I’m currently transitioning out of so that I can now embrace new possibilities, including the birth of the Deep Earth Co Journal. Since that day, the “vacuum effect” has been undeniable, with each day offering incredible blessings. Again, regardless of whether this is a mindset I’m cultivating, an energetic shift due to the magickal working, or both; I’m feeling more decisive and confident in the experiences I choose to partake in.
While it was right for me to make such a radical career change, please know that I am not advocating people leave their jobs when they’re unhappy. I absolutely believe that having a financial plan and ensuring one’s own financial stability are both incredibly important to one’s overall wellbeing. That said, I do want to emphasize the amount of power that is readily available to all of us through the alchemical combination of energetic elements (for me in this ritual, the waning moon and the Equinox). I entered this ritual seeking radical change. With days still left, I can already say that I’ve found it.
A Ritual for Release and Growth
This ritual unfolds over two parts, aligning with the waning moon and the Spring Equinox. The first part is dedicated to releasing fear, doubt, and anything else holding you back. The second part, beginning on the Equinox, shifts the focus to renewal, using the space you’ve cleared to welcome revitalization and rebirth. Take your time with each step, trust the process, and remember that ritual is about intention, not perfection.
You will need just a few things, should you want to recreate the ritual exactly as I’ve written it:
A Black Pillar Candle (I used a 3x6, but anything that will burn for two weeks will do great)
A Yellow Pillar Candle (I used a 3x6 for this as well).
Oils and Herbs to anoint both candles
I personally chose to anoint the yellow candle with an oil blend labeled, “Crown of Success”, and I left the black candle unanointed.
A Carving Tool
Please be cautious when carving candles.
Incense or other Offerings
I have been using Incense with an occasional libation of wine.
Piece of Paper and a Writing Utensil
Part 1: Releasing Fear & Doubt
This phase is all about letting go. We’ll be working with a black candle as a focal point, symbolizing release, protection, and transformation.
In the current ritual that I’m doing as I write this post, Part 1 ran from March 16th, 2025 to March 19th, 2025.
Part 1, Night 1 – The First Night of the Waning Moon
Enter a Meditative State: Find a comfortable position, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. Let distractions fade away as you focus on the rhythm of your breath.
Declare Your Sacred Space: However you feel called—through words, visualization, or a simple act like lighting incense—set the intention that this is a space for deep inner work.
Call on Divine Support: Whether you work with deities, ancestors, spirit guides, or simply the energy of the universe, invite in supportive forces to walk this journey with you.
Dress & Prepare Your Black Candle: Carve words of release into the wax, such as "I release fear," "I let go of doubt," or anything specific to your experience. If you wish, anoint the candle with oil or herbs that align with release, like rosemary, mugwort, or black salt.
Light the Candle & Speak Your Intentions: As the flame flickers, say aloud, or in your mind, what you are releasing. Allow your words to be firm and intentional.
Write Down What You Are Releasing: Be as detailed as you like—write out your fears, doubts, and limiting beliefs. Let them flow onto the page.
Meditate on Release: Spend a few moments gazing into the candle flame. Visualize fear and doubt dissolving away, making space for something new.
Offer Gratitude & Close the Ritual: Thank any divine forces you called in, and offer something in return. This could be a libation, incense, or a heartfelt prayer. Allow the candle to burn only while attended.
Part 1, Nights 2 through 4 – Deepening the Release
For the next three nights, return to your sacred space and perform the following to continuously charge the magick.
Enter meditation, declare sacred space, and call in support.
Light the black candle and reflect on what you’re letting go.
Spend 5-15 minutes in meditation, reinforcing your intention.
Offer gratitude and close the session.
Part 2: Releasing to Renew
With the Spring Equinox, the energy shifts. You’ve spent time clearing space, now it’s time to invite in growth, revitalization, and alignment with your desires.
In the current ritual that I’m doing as I write this post, Part 2 is currently running. It started on March 20th, 2025 and is going until March 28th, 2025.
Part 2, Night 1 – Spring Equinox
(If you’re doing this ritual outside of the Spring Equinox, I’d recommend making this switch at the third quarter moon, halfway between the Full moon and the New Moon)
Repeat the Opening Steps from Part 1: Enter meditation, declare sacred space, and call in divine support.
Light the Black Candle One Last Time: Acknowledge the release work you’ve done. Feel gratitude for the space you’ve created.
Prepare a Yellow Candle: Carve words of renewal into the wax, such as "I welcome growth," "I step into my power," or any affirmations that resonate. If you like, anoint the candle with uplifting herbs or oils like cinnamon, lemongrass, or sunflower.
Light the Yellow Candle & Speak Your Intentions: As the flame burns, declare your readiness to embrace the new. Speak with confidence and joy.
Write Down What You Are Calling In: Just as you wrote what you released, now write what you are inviting into your life. Be specific—how do you want to feel? What are you ready to receive?
Meditate on Renewal: Let the flames of both candles dance before you. See the energy of what you released becoming fuel for what you are calling in.
Offer Gratitude & Close the Ritual: Thank any divine forces you called in and offer your gratitude. Allow the candle to burn only while attended.
Part 2, Nights 2 through 8 (Waning Moon to the New Moon)
Each night or morning, return to your sacred space and perform the following to continuously charge the magick.
Enter meditation and declare your sacred space.
Light both candles and reflect on how your release is making way for renewal.
Spend time in meditation, allowing the energy of transformation to integrate.
Offer gratitude and close the session.
Part 3: The New Moon – What Comes Next?
I’m still working on what the New Moon will bring, but I’ll be sharing soon. Stay tuned for an update on how to complete this journey with the energy of new beginnings.
This ritual is meant to be fluid—adjust as needed to fit your practice and intuition. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it unfolds for you. What are you releasing? What are you ready to embrace?
Embracing the Shift: Staying Aligned after Release
Releasing fear and doubt isn’t just a one-time event, it’s an ongoing practice that we all ebb and flow throughout our entire lives. In my opinion, the real work begins after the ritual, when we step back into our daily lives and decide, again and again, to align with the changes we’ve set in motion. It’s easy to slip into old patterns, but that’s where mindfulness and intention come in. Just as we cleared space during the waning moon, we must be conscious of how we fill that space moving forward. For me, I’m already starting to ask myself, “How can I forbid these old fears and doubts to come crawling back, and how can I actively cultivate this energy of renewal that I’ve invited into my life?”
For me, this has meant checking in with myself daily each night during my ritual charging of the candles, intentionally reaffirming the choices I’ve made to find inspiration and courage, and being gentle with myself when doubt resurfaces. The ritual may have sparked a shift, but it’s absolutely my responsibility to nurture it. While I will be writing an update to this in a few weeks after I’ve gone through the New Moon, which will have some of the continual practices I’m using to facilitate this transformation even deeper, there are a few ideas I already have in mind that those taking part in a similar ritual may consider. Predominantly, meditation, journaling, and acts of devotion to the divine will all be things I incorporate in Phase 3 and beyond. That said, I also intend on lighting affirmational candles, as well as taking my time to pause when moments of uncertainty arise, so I can continuously anchor to my path.
This ritual has already led me to powerful transformation, and I know the journey isn’t over. I’ll continue to share my experiences, and I’d love to hear about yours. If you try this ritual, or if you have your own practices for release and renewal, please reach out! I’d love to connect! Here’s to shedding the old, embracing the new, and stepping boldly into the lives we are meant to create. Change isn’t always easy, but when we embrace it with intention, we become the alchemists of our own lives.
Blessings,
James