A gentle invitation into presence — the way I move through the tools of 8.26

— This ritual is here to hold me.

I let it change. I let it be mine —

This ritual is simply how I choose to be with these offerings — you’re invited to make it your own in whatever ways feel most supportive. Let this be a soft beginning, a gentle space to return to.

A person with a tattoo on their wrist holding a gray cup with a matte finish, with water being poured into it outdoors during daylight, with trees and grass in the background.

A collection of items for a spiritual or ritualistic setting on a white fabric, including dried herbs and spices, a ceramic candle holder with a candle, decorated cookies, a wooden scoop, and a bundle of herbs tied with string.

A person holding a crystal pointed object, with a white cloth and scattered flower petals beneath. On a small dish in the background, there is a candle in a ceramic holder, a small vial, and a crystal.

Step One — Sipping with intention

I start by preparing my tea. I try to be fully present with every step — scooping the herbs, pouring the water, and letting the scent rise. It’s not about rushing or getting it right. It’s about beginning to arrive, here, now.

Step Two (a) — Honoring the light

(If this is my first time using the ritual — or if I’m beginning a new candle) I gently place it into my handmade ceramic vessel. It’s an honoring of the space I’m creating. This vessel is meant to be a lasting part of my ritual — lovingly reused with each new candle, a quiet continuation of my practice. Each time I begin a new candle, I return to this step — a simple, sacred placement.

Woman holding a small ceramic candle holder with a lit flame, wearing a white top, jewelry, and sitting outdoors.

Step Two (b) —Igniting the moment

I light the candle with intention and take one deep breath to center myself. I connect to a thought or feeling I want to move with — a quiet intention that can guide me through the ritual.

A hand holding a small amber glass bottle upside down, with a few drops of liquid falling onto the ground.

A person holding a small brown bottle in one hand and using a dropper to transfer liquid onto their wrist, with tattoos and rings on fingers, outdoors during daylight.

A woman with brown hair and multiple jewelry pieces, including rings and necklaces, is closing her eyes with her hands resting on her forehead, outdoors during sunset or golden hour.

Step Three (a) — Working with the oils

(If it’s my first ritual with a new oil — or if I’m refilling my glass vessel) I begin by pouring the oil from its travel vessel into my hand-blown glass vessel. This simple act marks the beginning (or return) of my ritual relationship with the oil — a moment of grounding and care. From this point on, I continue using my glass vessel until the oil is complete. This vessel is meant to be a lasting part of my ritual — lovingly refilled with each new order, a quiet continuation of my practice. Each time I refill it, I return to this step — a gentle re-beginning.

Step Three (b) — Anointing the moment

Using the glass stem, I gently place the oil on my left wrist and softly touch my wrists together. Then, I bring my palms to my third eye center, close my eyes, and take three deep breaths, connecting with the scent and letting it bring me deeper into presence.

A woman sitting on a white blanket with flowers, candles, and tea outdoors on grass during a picnic.

Step Four — Anchor and attune

I hold my crystal as I read the quote I’ve chosen for the day. I allow the words to move through me, to wash over me, and I give myself a moment to simply sit with them — no fixing, no forcing.

A woman with reddish-brown hair and jewelry, holding a gray cup with both hands and drinking outdoors during sunset.

Step Five — An invitation to stay

As I drink my tea, I sit with that which has been given. I reflect on what I am feeling — maybe in words, maybe just in awareness. This part is quiet. I allow myself to hold space for all that arises.

A woman holding a steaming cup of hot beverage outdoors during sunset or late afternoon, with trees and grass in the background.

Step Six: I hold the burden carried — then with love i gently set it free:

Once my tea is finished, I think of something I wish to let go — a thought, a feeling, that which serves me no longer — with that, the candle breaths no flame. A small release, i close the circle.

Each 8.26 ritual is made with deep intention and care. This space is here to help you connect with your tools mindfully and safely. Please read through the following notes before engaging with your ritual. These cautions are not meant to alarm — only to support you in tending to your well-being with the same grounded care we pour into each offering.

Candle Safety Information: Never leave burning candles unattended. Always trim the wick to ¼ inch before each use. Burn on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from drafts, flammable objects, and pets. Do not burn for more than 4 hours at a time. Discontinue use when ½ inch of wax remains. Keep out of reach of children and animals. Candle containers may become hot during use so please use caution accordingly. For external use only. Not for ingestion. Do not use as a skin treatment.

Anointing Oil Safety Information: For external use only. Do not ingest. Place a small amount on wrist to test before proceeding with ritual. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Keep away from children and pets. Consult your physician if pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or if you have known skin sensitivities. This product has not been evaluated by the FDA. No information provided is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, allergy or medical condition.

Tea Safety Information:

Amber Zest: This blend contains licorice root and is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. If using in therapeutic amounts, avoid use during pregnancy without professional supervision. If you have high blood pressure, liver conditions, edema, kidney concerns, low potassium levels, or heart disease, please consult your healthcare provider before using products containing licorice root. Keep herbs out of reach of children and pets.If you are pregnant, nursing, on medication, or have a health condition, consult a healthcare provider before use. This product has not been evaluated by the FDA. No information provided is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, allergy or medical condition.

Velvet Dawn: This blend is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. If you have known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as chamomile), please use with caution, as similar allergic reactions may occur and you should consult with a qualified healthcare provider prior to use. Keep herbs out of reach of children and pets. If you are pregnant, nursing, on medication, or have a health condition, consult a healthcare provider before use. This product has not been evaluated by the FDA. No information provided is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, allergy or medical condition.

Herbal Drift: If you are sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as chamomile or calendula, please use with care, as similar allergic responses may occur and you should consult with a qualified healthcare provider prior to use. Keep herbs out of reach of children and pets. If you are pregnant, nursing, on medication, or have a health condition, consult a healthcare provider before use. This product has not been evaluated by the FDA. No information provided is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, allergy or medical condition.

A Note on Responsibility: 8.26 is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information provided is for educational and ritual purposes only. Use of these products is at the customer’s own discretion and risk. By engaging with these tools, you agree to release 8.26 and its founder from any liability arising from improper use or individual sensitivities.