The Winter Solstice Money Bowl: A Ritual for Abundance in the New Year
- Astrid van Essen
- Dec 21
- 3 min read
As the wheel of the year turns toward the Winter Solstice, we find ourselves in the deepest belly of winter. In the UK, the days are short, the air is crisp, and the "Yule" season invites us to huddle indoors. While nature appears dormant, it is actually the most potent time for soul-work.
The Solstice marks the "return of the light." From this point forward, the days grow longer. It is the perfect energetic moment to plant "seeds" for your future. One of my favourite ways to do this is by creating a Money Bowl.
Whether you want to manifest a career shift, clear your debts, or simply invite more "flow" into your life for 2025, this spiritual ritual of creating a winter solstice money bowl is a beautiful way to set your intentions.
Why the Winter Solstice?
In folk tradition, the Solstice is about transition. By building a wealth altar now, you are aligning your personal finances with the growing sun. You are saying to the universe: "As the light grows, so does my prosperity."
Your Natural Ingredients List
For a "witchy," earth-centred money bowl, avoid the plastic and the synthetic. We want materials that carry the vibration of the earth.
1. The Base: Grounding and Growth
Rice or Salt: These represent a solid foundation. Rice, in particular, symbolises a harvest that is "multiplied."
Coffee Beans: My secret weapon! Coffee is ruled by Mars; it provides a "kick" of energy to speed up results and keeps your financial intuition sharp.
2. The Spices: Bringing the Heat
Cinnamon Sticks: Cinnamon is the ultimate "success" herb. It raises the vibration of the bowl and smells like midwinter magic.
Star Anise: With its beautiful eight-pointed shape (the number of infinity and wealth), it brings luck from all directions.
Dried Orange Peel: Represents the return of the sun and the "gold" of the harvest.
3. The Crystals: Energetic Magnets
Citrine: Known as the ‘Merchant’s Stone’, it never needs clearing and radiates pure abundance.
Pyrite: Its metallic luster acts as a physical "anchor" for coins and cash.
How to Assemble Your Money Bowl
Cleansing: Before you start, cleanse your bowl (ceramic or glass works best) with the smoke of a rosemary bundle or simply by ringing a bell over it to clear stagnant energy.
Layering: Fill the bottom with your rice and a handful of coffee beans. As you pour, visualise your bank account feeling "full" and stable.
Tucking in the Money: Place some real currency in the bowl. Even a few £1 or £2 coins will do. This tells the bowl exactly what it’s meant to attract.
The Bay Leaf Wish: Take a dried bay leaf and write a specific financial goal for the coming year (e.g., "New Job" or "£5,000 Savings") in gold or black ink. Nestled this into the centre.
Placement: Place your bowl in a "wealth corner" (the far left corner from your front door) or on your desk where you do your work.
Working Your Magic
A money bowl is a living spell. Don't just leave it to collect dust!
Feed it: Every time you find a penny on the street or have spare change, drop it in.
Stir it: Occasionally use your finger to stir the rice and coffee clockwise (the direction of "bringing in") to keep the energy moving.
Solstice Night: Leave your bowl near a window on the night of the 21st of December to soak up the first rays of the "new" sun the next morning.
The Winter Solstice Money Bowl: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use instant coffee if I don't have beans? Absolutely! While whole beans hold their shape better, instant coffee or dried grounds work just as well for providing that "jolt" of energetic speed.
2. What do I do with the ingredients when I’m finished? When the spell feels "done" (perhaps in the Spring), return the natural elements to the earth. Bury the rice and herbs in the garden. Wash the coins and spend them - letting money flow back into the world is a powerful act of trust!
3. Is it okay if other people see my money bowl?
Yes. In fact, placing it in a communal area like an entryway can invite "general household abundance." However, if you have a very specific or private goal, keeping it in your bedroom or office is better.
4. How often should I refresh the bowl?
Many people like to refresh their bowl every New Moon. It’s a great time to remove any dust, add fresh herbs, and re-state your intentions.
5. Do I have to use "real" money?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Using real currency acts as a "like attracts like" magnet. Even a small amount of "seed money" is enough to start the vibration.