rituals for the coming year: a path to lasting change

As we stand on the cusp of a new year, many of us find ourselves setting resolutions, envisioning transformative changes that will reshape our lives. Yet, all too often, the steadfast resolve we feel on January 1st begins to wane as weeks go by. This is where an often-overlooked yet profoundly effective practice can step in: rituals. As Barbara Biziou, global ritual expert and author of The Joy of Ritual, asserts, "Rituals are the spiritual technology of the 21st century. They shift our consciousness from one state to another."

A ritual, as Barbara defines it, is a series of structured, symbolic acts designed to shift mindsets, break through barriers, and expand our vision for life. Unlike mere resolutions, which rely heavily on willpower and often confront the rational mind, rituals communicate directly with our subconscious, the realm where lasting change takes root. By engaging in intentional, symbolic actions, we bypass logic and speak in the language of the soul, as Carl Jung noted in his observations on the power of symbols.

The first 12 days of the year, according to Barbara, hold particular potency. Symbolically representing the 12 months, these days are an optimal window for performing rituals that can set the tone for the year ahead. Here are three of Barbara’s most impactful New Year’s rituals, each designed to address a specific area of life: letting go of the past, attracting prosperity, and inviting romance.

The Letting-Go Ritual

New Year’s is universally seen as a time for renewal—a moment to cleanse, release, and create space for new patterns. Many spiritual traditions incorporate letting-go rituals as a foundational practice for beginning anew. In Italy, for example, it’s customary to give away old belongings at the start of the year. Barbara recommends taking this a step further with a deliberate inventory of the past year.

Write down what no longer serves you: outdated habits, toxic relationships, or lingering regrets. Once your list is complete, destroy it symbolically by ripping it up, shredding it, or burning it. This act speaks to your subconscious, signaling that these elements of your life are over. By clearing out the old, you create a clean slate for fresh opportunities to emerge.

The Prosperity Ritual

For those seeking financial abundance or any form of wealth, Barbara suggests a prosperity ritual steeped in gratitude and trust. Begin by preparing a bowl of coins and placing it outside your front door. When you return home for the first time in the new year, bless the coins with your intentions for abundance, health, or any other aspirations. Toss them inside your home, repeating your blessings. Let the coins remain undisturbed for 48 hours before giving them away. This symbolic gesture reinforces the belief that you have enough to give and that the universe will provide for your needs.

“When you’re in a state of gratitude and happiness, things manifest faster,” Barbara explains. This ritual not only aligns your intentions with action but also instills a sense of trust and openness to receiving abundance.

The Romance Ritual

If love is what you seek in the coming year, look to an age-old tradition from the Far East: wearing new red underwear on January 1st. While it may sound whimsical, the physical act of donning a symbolic garment sends a powerful message to the brain. Rituals like this, which have a clear beginning and end, are grounded in action, making their intentions tangible.

Barbara emphasizes the importance of reinforcing new patterns over time. Rewiring the brain takes consistency, and small daily actions—such as reciting a mantra or blessing your money—help solidify the shifts initiated by rituals.

. . . 

Ultimately, rituals magnify the power of intention. By grounding your resolutions in symbolic acts, you strengthen your commitment and signal to both your conscious and subconscious mind that you are ready for change. Whether you are releasing the past, welcoming abundance, or seeking love, rituals act as catalysts, transforming abstract goals into actionable, deeply felt commitments.

As you step into the new year, consider setting aside your traditional resolutions in favor of meaningful rituals. Through these structured, symbolic acts, you can tap into a deeper well of transformation, creating not only a year but a life filled with purpose, abundance, and connection.

Hello, Successheads!

I’m excited to announce that all my books are now available as part of a promotion on Smashwords through January 1 as part of their 2024 End of Year Sale! This is a chance to get my books, along with books from many other great authors, at a discount so you can get right to reading.

You will find the promo here:
https://www.smashwords.com/shelves/promos/

Please share this promo with friends and family. You can even forward this email to the avid readers in your life!

Thank you for your help and support!

Happy reading! 😄