A Recovery Ritual for Samhain
Samhain, the Celtic New Year, is a time of reflection, release, and renewal. The veil is between the worlds thins, allowing us to connect with the unseen. Traditionally, it's a time to honor the dead, but for those of us in recovery, it can also be a time to honor the parts of ourselves we've left behind.
I’m not a huge fan of describing my former self as a stranger or someone who “died” when I got sober. I teach my students to give their drinking selves the credit they deserve for making incredible changes and choosing a life of integrity. Distancing from our former selves feels like denying the parts of us that were suffering and needed help. We never want to disrespect any part of our journey because we are still on it!
Speaking for myself, I am still the person I was when I was drinking, just a version who has grown and fought hard to be where I am.
However, it's also true that sometimes, energy from our past can linger, like an unresolved spirit. Shame, guilt, and regret can cloud our minds and hold us back. Samhain offers a perfect opportunity to confront these lingering emotions, forgive ourselves, and symbolically release them.
A Simple Samhain Ritual for People in Recovery
To perform this ritual, you'll need:
A quiet, private space
A white candle
Paper and pen
A small, fireproof container or firepit
Create Sacred Space: Find a quiet place where you won't be disturbed. Light the candle and take a few deep breaths to center yourself. If you work with spirit guides or well and healed ancestors, you can invite them to be with you now.
Reflect on the Past: Write a letter to your former self. Be honest about the challenges you faced and the pain you caused yourself and others. Express gratitude for the strength you've gained and the lessons you've learned. Most importantly, include a message of forgiveness for your past mistakes. (Remember, others don't need to forgive you for you to forgive yourself!)
Release the Past: Read the letter aloud or silently to yourself. As you read, visualize the negative emotions associated with your past as rocks in a backpack, heavy and burdensome. With each breath, release these burdens. Imagine removing each rock and watching it crumble into dust and blow away.
Embrace the Present: Thank your former self for the sacrifices made and the lessons learned. Express gratitude for your sobriety and the positive changes you’ve made in your life.
Burn the Letter: Carefully burn the letter in a fireproof container or firepit. As the letter burns, watch the flames consume the paper, symbolizing the release of the past. (If you are uncomfortable with burning, you can tear the letter up and bury it.)
Close the Ritual: Take a few deep breaths and embrace the sense of peace and lightness you experience. Thank your guides or well and healed ancestors for being with you, then extinguish the candle.
As we move into the final weeks of the year, I wish you ease, joy, and strength in all areas of your life, especially in your sobriety. Remember, no matter what you did in the past, you are worthy of love, happiness, and a fulfilling life.
If you’re struggling with self-forgiveness and letting go, I can help with that. Send me a message, and let’s talk!