Burning Rituals for Neurodivergent Souls

Alright, let’s be real, you’re all little pyros! 🔥😏 I know it, you know it, we’re not hiding it here. Fire is mesmerizing, and for many of my neurodivergent friends (myself included), there’s nothing more grounding than watching flames dance and flicker. But before you start collecting random things to burn, let’s be safe, okay? I’m a rule follower but also ADHD so you know things get out of hand sometimes. 

Burning rituals aren’t just about fire, they’re about freedom. They’re about letting go of all the things weighing you down. Whether it’s intrusive thoughts, emotional baggage, or sensory overload, these rituals help you externalize what’s in your head and watch it burn away.

So grab some paper, your favorite pen (or crayon, smelly markers!), and let’s turn that fire into transformation!

Why Neurodivergent Folks Love Burning Rituals

Neurodivergent brains love tactile, visual, and sensory experiences. Fire taps into all of those senses at once, it’s like the ultimate sensory buffet. Here’s why this ritual works so well:

1.Visual Stimulation:

The flames are fascinating, right? Watching the fire consume your paper is oddly satisfying. It gives you a clear, visual cue that your worries are disappearing.

2. Tactile Connection:

You’re holding the paper, writing out your thoughts, and feeling the warmth of the fire. These physical sensations anchor you in the present, making the act of letting go feel real.

3. Soothing Sounds:

The crackle of burning paper? Chef’s kiss. It’s like a sensory lullaby that quiets the mental noise.

4. Smell Sensitivity:

The scent of burning paper can be grounding—or overwhelming. If you’re not a fan of the smell, you can:

• Add essential oils or incense for a more pleasant scent.

• Wear a mask to block out the smoke.

• Choose a no-fire option (like scribbling it all out with crayons).

But Let’s Be Real: Pyro-Proof Your Ritual

I get it—fire is amazing. But some of y’all (especially my neurodivergent kiddos) stim on fire and get carried away. I see you. 🫣 No judgment—but let’s stay safe.

• Always have water or a fire extinguisher nearby.

• Use a fire-safe bowl or outdoor firepit.

• Supervise kids closely—especially if they’re the “one more match!” type.

• If you’ve got a mini pyromaniac in the house, consider using a candle flame for small papers instead of a bonfire.

How to Do a Burning Ritual

1. Gather Your Supplies:

• Small strips of paper or a notebook

• Pen, pencil, or crayon

• A candle, fire-safe bowl, or outdoor firepit

• A bowl of water for safety

• Optional: essential oils or incense for smell

2. Write It Down:

Take a moment to reflect on what you need to let go of. This could be:

• Intrusive thoughts (“I can’t stop replaying that awkward moment.”)

• Masking behaviors (“I’m exhausted from pretending to be someone I’m not.”)

• Tough relationships (“This person isn’t showing up for me, and it hurts.”)

Write everything down—even the silly stuff. No one’s grading this.

3. Light It Up:

Safely light the paper and watch it burn. Notice the way the flames change color and the paper curls up into ash.

If fire’s not your thing, grab a black crayon and scribble over the words until the page is obliterated. Tear it, stomp on it, shred it.

4. Say Your Affirmation:

This is your time to declare your truth:

• “I let go of what no longer serves me.”

• “I create space for peace and authenticity.”

• “I deserve freedom and joy.”

Say it out loud—make it yours.

5. Bury the Ashes:

Take the ashes (or the scribbled-up paper), and bury them in your backyard or potted plant. This act symbolizes that you’re planting seeds for something new and beautiful to grow.

For Neurodivergent Kids (and Adults Who Are Big Kids at Heart)

Rituals like these can be game-changers for neurodivergent kiddos. My 5-year-old autistic son sometimes gets stuck on upsetting things he’s seen or heard—like a loud noise or a sad scene on TV. When that loop starts playing on repeat, we write it down together and burn it (safely). Watching the smoke rise gives him a visual cue that the thought is leaving, and he feels more in control.

If fire feels too overwhelming, we use the crayon method or rip the paper into pieces and toss it into water—it’s all about making the ritual work for you.

Sensory-Friendly Ritual Ideas

Not into flames? That’s cool! Try these alternatives:

• The Scribble Ritual: Use a black crayon to cover up your worries, then tear the paper and throw it away or bury it.

• The Water Ritual: Write your thoughts on dissolvable paper (yes, it exists!) and drop it in water, watching it disappear. 

• The Earth Ritual: Write everything down, crumple the paper, and bury it in the ground to symbolize release and renewal.

Pro Tip: Make This a Regular Practice

Burning rituals aren’t just for big moments—you can do this daily if needed. Life throws stuff at us constantly, and sometimes you need to clear space more than once. That’s okay. Healing isn’t a one-and-done thing—it’s a process. 

Feeling Stuck? Let Me Help.

Look, I know letting go isn’t always easy—especially when your brain is on overdrive. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and can’t seem to release what’s weighing you down, I’m here to help.

My coaching program is designed for neurodivergent, high-achieving visionaries who need help clearing mental clutter and rediscovering their brilliance. Whether it’s sensory overwhelm, emotional baggage, or that annoying inner critic, I’ve got your back.

➡️ Click here to schedule a consultation. Let’s light it up, clear it out, and create space for the life you’re meant to live.

Final Thought:

Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting—it means making room for something better. Whether you burn, scribble, or bury, remember: you’re not stuck. You’re capable of releasing, rebuilding, and thriving.

Now, go grab some paper and get ready to set your worries on fire (safely!). You’ve got this.