We’re well into autumn, and winter is just around the corner. It’s the season for wintering in, when country folk would prepare for winter, gathering what they needed to get through the cold months until the storms stopped and the light returned.

Carry out your own wintering in ritual to help you get through the dark months.

You’ll need a favorite mug, your choice of hot beverage, a favorite book, warm mittens, and a white, gray, or dark blue candle in a holder.

Bring everything to a table or to your altar. Light the candle safely and put on the mittens. Repeat:

Warmth and comfort,
Candle bright,
Keep me through
The long dark night
As I await the
Return of light.

Sip your hot beverage. Focus for a minute on the brightness of the candle, the comfort of the mittens, and the soothing warmth of your drink. Envision yourself as a warm cocoon in the midst of winter. Settle in and read your book while enjoying the beverage. Extinguish the candle when you’re done.