Trim Your Wick

Sometimes we need to pause, prune, or let go of excess in order to sustain our light and purpose. Image, vecteezy.com

Do you love burning candles? I do. Especially when the days disappear during the fall and winter months and the soft, serene glow of candlelight is almost constant when I'm home. I want to cozy up on my couch with cocoa and a good book just thinking about it. This is a wonderful time of year. It can also be a stressful time. We need to trim our wicks so we can burn brightly without burning out.

Just as the wicks of our candles must be trimmed to prevent smoke and uneven flames, we too benefit from cutting back distractions, overcommitments, or outdated habits. It's not about loss, it's about clarity and alignment. A well-trimmed wick allows the flame to burn cleanly and consistently. In life, when we're intentional about our energy and boundaries, we shine more sustainably, without burnout or flickering. Tending to ourselves through rest, reflection, and recalibration helps us endure and glow through seasons of change. Checking in with ourselves, noticing buildup, and gently trimming it away are key for self-preservation. We trim not to diminish, but to sustain our flame.

These practices can help us release excess and restore clarity:

• Unsubscribing from unwanted digital noise that distracts us from our deeper callings.

• Carving out sacred pauses in the week for rest, reflection, or spiritual renewal.

• Reconnecting with our physical selves to notice tension and release it.

• Declining invitations or roles that don't align with our values or season.

• Letting thoughts flow freely to uncover what's weighting us down or lighting us up.

A steady flame invites warmth and connection. When we care for our inner wick, we then become a source of light for others, a light others can gather around, a source of strength and comfort. We show up with patience and presence. We are kind and compassionate, and do our best to listen with love and understand. By releasing the excess, the distractions, and inhibiting habits, we make space for sustainable glow, not only for us, but for others.

So, go get your favorite candle, trim the wick, light it, take in the scent, then take a moment to consider what can be trimmed from your life so you can burn a bit brighter. Reflect on what might be dimming your flame. Be honest with yourself. Intentionally trim your wick so you can thrive and help others do the same.

Shine on, Friend!

The world needs all the light we can give.

Let's keep blooming together.