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Walnut ritual to make a decision with clarity
The walnut has long been linked to wisdom, perhaps because its shape resembles a brain, and cracking it open is a classic gesture of getting to the heart of something. When you're torn between two paths, such as moving house, taking a course or accepting an offer, your mind keeps going round in circles. This ritual helps you sort out your thoughts, listen to what you really feel and decide calmly, without rush or pressure.
In short: The walnut has long been linked to wisdom, perhaps because its shape resembles a brain, and cracking it open is a classic gesture of getting to the heart of something. You need 5 simple items and 5 steps. When: When you have to choose between two options and have been mulling it over for days.
When to do it
When you have to choose between two options and have been mulling it over for days. The new moon or waxing moon are good phases, ideally during a quiet moment in the evening.
What you need
- A whole walnut in its shell
- A small white candle in a stable holder
- Two pieces of paper and a pen
- A nutcracker
- A candle snuffer or a teaspoon
Step by step
- Place the candle in its holder on a stable, non-flammable surface, away from curtains and paper, and light it. Hold the walnut in your hand and breathe deeply three times.
- Write each option on a separate piece of paper and, underneath, what you gain and what scares you about each one. Place them on either side of the candle, a hand's width from the flame.
- Put the walnut in front of each paper for a minute and ask yourself: "How would I feel a year from now if I chose this?". Notice whether you feel relief or weight.
- Crack the walnut with the nutcracker and say: "I get to the heart of what I want". Leave the open walnut next to the paper that gave you more relief.
- Write a small first step for this week on that paper. Put out the candle with the snuffer, without blowing, and keep the paper somewhere you'll see it every day.
Safety first
Never leave a lit candle unattended. Place it in a stable, heat-resistant holder away from curtains, paper, children and pets, and put it out with a snuffer.
These rituals are symbolic. Do not ingest herbs or oils, ventilate the room when burning incense or herbs, and never perform a ritual to harm or control anyone.
To finish
If you're still unsure, repeat the ritual another evening: sometimes the answer comes after a night's sleep. Walnuts are a common allergen; if you're allergic, use a small pine cone or a stone instead, and keep whole walnuts out of reach of young children and pets. Never leave the candle burning unattended. For important legal or financial decisions, also seek professional advice. To turn your choice into a clear wish, pair it with the first star ritual.