Waning Moon Rituals: Letting Go, Gently

The waning moon is the exhale after the full moon’s roar. It’s the descent into softness, a sacred pause where release meets restoration. While the full moon is about burning what no longer serves, the waning moon is where you begin clearing the ashes.

This is a time for surrender, spiritual cleanup, and gentle recalibration. It asks not for action, but for intention.

✂️ Cord Cutting Ritual: Release with Grace

What You’ll Need:

• A small length of thread or string
• Two candles (white or black)
• A slip of paper with the person/habit/energy written on it

The Ritual:

1. Set the two candles a few inches apart.
2. Tie the thread to each candle base to form a “bridge.”
3. Light both candles and read your note aloud. Say: “I release this with peace and love.”
4. Carefully cut the thread in the center and burn the paper.
5. Let the candles burn as long as feels right, then snuff them out.

Optional: Read our full Cord Cutting Guide for deeper insight and real-world examples of energetic detachment. Also use your Moon Sanity Tracker to reflect on emotional shifts during the ritual.

🕯️ Altar Reset + Space Clearing

Use the waning moon to physically and energetically clean your space. Dust your altar. Reorganize your tools. Donate what no longer aligns. As you do:

• Burn rosemary, cedar, or frankincense
• Play the Playlist for Reflection
• Whisper a blessing: “I clear this space to welcome peace.”
• Need a deeper altar ritual? Visit our full Altar Reset & Spiritual Space Guide

🙏 Gratitude Closure Ritual

Close your lunar cycle with softness and reflection.

How to Begin:

• Sit quietly with your journal.
• List three things you’ve learned this moon cycle.
• Write a letter to yourself expressing pride and compassion.
• Optional: Read it aloud by candlelight, then fold and keep it for the next new moon.

Want deeper prompts? Use your Strawberry Moon Journal to trace emotional patterns and lessons.

🌓 Prepare for the Next Cycle

Let this phase slow you down—not stop you. Waning moon rituals are about clearing the stage so you can rise again under the new moon.

🎶 Need a soundtrack for your stillness? Try Mood Music for Moon Rituals

↩️ Return to the Moon Rituals Hub

Dorey Duncan Scott Senior Litigation Paralegal

Hi! I’m Dorey Duncan Scott, a mother of three, wife and fashion entrepreneur. I started my career in fashion back in the early 90’s when I did print, still and runway modeling. I studied Fashion Merchandising, Music Business and Marketing, while also obtaining certificates in such industry-necessary areas such as make-up, styling and runway choreography. In addition, I had work as a spokesmodel for several brands, appearing in print and in person. As a former model, turned senior litigation paralegal, artist manager and on-air personality with a passion for fashion, beauty, and personal development, I bring a unique combination of style, strategic thinking, and legal expertise to my work. My years navigating the legal world have sharpened my attention to detail, while my experience and passion for fashion, beauty, and personal development drives my desire to help others feel empowered and help them in their journey toward self-empowerment. My experience in the fashion world has taught me the power of confidence. 

See Full Bio