DIY Rauhnächte: Rituals, Meaning, and Tips for Beginners – The Twelve Holy Nights Explained

Marisa
Dec 19, 2024
4 min read

DIY Rauhnächte: No-Nonsense Magic

The Rauhnächte – the name alone sounds like an ancient, mystical spell. And that’s exactly what they are! This magical phase between Christmas and Epiphany is one of the most powerful times in the year. No fluff, no sales pitches – just pure spiritual tradition. If you’ve heard of them but don’t know exactly what they’re about, buckle up. Here’s everything you need to know and a plan to help you make the most of this magical time.

The Origins of the Rauhnächte: Myths and Magic

The roots of the Rauhnächte run deep – really deep. They originate in Germanic, Celtic, and even Christian traditions. Back then, people lived in closer harmony with nature and the cycles of the year. The Rauhnächte were considered a “time outside of time” – a phase where the old year ends, the new year hasn’t begun, and the world rests in a magical pause.

It was believed that during this time, the veil between worlds was particularly thin. Spirits and ancestors could be more easily contacted, and the wild hunts of Odin or Frau Holle were said to roam the skies. It was a time to reflect, release the past, and prepare for what’s to come.

Historically, the Rauhnächte are tied to the difference between the lunar year (354 days) and the solar year (365 days). The gap of 11 days – or 12 nights – was considered sacred. Each night symbolizes one of the 12 months of the upcoming year.

Today, the tradition typically begins on December 24th and ends on January 6th. But some people start as early as December 20th – do what feels right for you.

Your DIY Rauhnächte Plan

Now that you know the magical backstory, it’s time for action! Here’s your step-by-step guide to fully embrace the Rauhnächte and align your future. Each day corresponds to a month in the coming year – think of it as slow-motion fortune-telling.

Preparation (Before December 24th)

What to do: Set up your space: grab a journal, write down 13 wishes on small pieces of paper, and gather some incense or herbs. No need to overcomplicate things.
Why: To kick off the Rauhnächte with ease and focus.
You’ll need: Journal, pen, 13 pieces of paper, fireproof bowl, incense or herbs.

1st Rauhnacht (December 24th): Letting Go

Theme: What needs to go?
Ritual: Write down what’s weighing you down and burn it. Cleanse your home with incense or herbs. Burn one of your prepared wishes – this one is handed over to the universe.
Why: To create space for the new.
You’ll need: Paper, pen, incense or herbs, wish slip.

2nd Rauhnacht (December 25th): New Beginnings

Theme: What do you want to grow?
Ritual: Write your visions and goals. Meditate on protection and fresh starts. Burn another wish slip to reinforce your intentions.
Why: To set a positive tone for the new year.
You’ll need: Journal, candle, wish slip.

3rd Rauhnacht (December 26th): Gratitude

Theme: What are you grateful for?
Ritual: Create a gratitude list and spend time with your loved ones. Burn another wish slip.
Why: Gratitude raises your vibration.
You’ll need: Journal, wish slip.

4th Rauhnacht (December 27th): Cleansing

Theme: What’s blocking you?
Ritual: Do an energetic cleansing ritual, such as smudging or taking a salt bath. Burn another wish slip to release any stagnant energy.
Why: To bring clarity.
You’ll need: Salt, herbs or incense, wish slip.

5th Rauhnacht (December 28th): Manifestation

Theme: What do you want to attract?
Ritual: Visualize your dreams or create a vision board. Burn another wish slip, sending your intention into the universe.
Why: Your thoughts shape your reality.
You’ll need: Paper, pen, images, wish slip.

6th Rauhnacht (December 29th): Intuition

Theme: What is your inner voice telling you?
Ritual: Draw a tarot or oracle card and write down any insights. Burn another wish slip.
Why: Your intuition is heightened during this time.
You’ll need: Tarot or oracle cards, journal, wish slip.

7th Rauhnacht (December 30th): Spirit World

Theme: What messages are coming through?
Ritual: Meditate and connect with your ancestors or spirit guides. Burn another wish slip.
Why: The connection to the spirit world is particularly strong now.
You’ll need: Candles, meditative music, wish slip.

8th Rauhnacht (December 31st): Farewell

Theme: What do you want to leave behind?
Ritual: Burn another wish slip and reflect on the year. Prepare for the transition into the new year.
Why: To start the new year with intention.
You’ll need: Wish slip, fireproof bowl.

9th Rauhnacht (January 1st): Realignment

Theme: Where do you want your journey to go?
Ritual: Set clear intentions and plan your first steps. Take another wish slip, burn it, and let the energy flow into your new year.
Why?: A focused start sets the tone for the months ahead.
You’ll need: Journal, planner or calendar, wish slip.

10th Rauhnacht (January 2nd): Balance

Theme: Where do you find harmony?
Ritual: Meditate and reflect on how you can maintain balance in your life. As always, burn one wish slip and visualize stability.
Why?: Balance creates the foundation for stability and peace.
You’ll need: Meditation cushion, wish slip.

11th Rauhnacht (January 3rd): Healing

Theme: What needs healing?
Ritual: Write about wounds or past hurts you wish to release. Focus on forgiveness—both for yourself and others. Burn the second-to-last wish slip as a symbol of letting go.
Why?: Healing clears space for new growth and lighter energy.
You’ll need: Journal, candle, wish slip.

12th Rauhnacht (January 4th): Vision

Theme: What is your vision for the future?
Ritual: Paint or write your vision for the year ahead. Burn the final wish slip, completing the cycle of release and manifestation.
Why?: A clear vision sets the stage for an empowered future.
You’ll need: Journal, fireproof bowl, wish slip.

What About the Last Wish?

One of your 13 wishes will remain. This wish is not for the universe – it’s for you to take action on. Read it after the Rauhnächte and ask yourself: “What steps can I take to make this happen?”

Let’s Dive Deeper Together

The Rauhnächte are a gift – a time to reflect, release, and align with your highest potential. But I know questions can pop up: “What if I don’t have sage? (Hint: Try thyme or bay leaves from your kitchen.) How do I connect with my ancestors? What’s a salt bath, anyway?”

I love diving into these topics, so leave a comment or drop me an email. Let’s level up your Rauhnächte together. Let the magic flow! 🌙✨