At the same time, there is still a vast shadow moving through the world. Terrible things are happening: War, human trafficking, abuse, torture. The bodies of the victims bear the scars, but so do their souls. When a life ends through sudden violence or prolonged suffering, the soul may be confused, frightened or unable to let go. It may linger near the site of its pain, trapped in shock, anger, grief or unfinished ties.
If you care about these souls, there are simple, honest ways to help them. You don’t need superpowers, only attention, intention and a willingness to bring Light into the darkness. Below are some practical and mystical ways to help traumatised souls find more peace and heal the living who carry their memory.
Gentle Practices to Help Souls Cross Over
1. Sit in stillness and set your intention
Begin with a few calm breaths. Hold the clear, compassionate intention: 'May every soul still bound by pain be seen, soothed and guided into the Light.' The intention focuses the energy; it is the first and strongest step.
2. Ground and protect yourself
Before you work with strong energies, anchor yourself. Feel your feet on the earth, imagine roots growing downwards and call a circle of light or protection around you. This will keep your energy distinct while you send care.
3. Send Light and Love
Visualise a warm, soft Light — golden or white — flowing from your heart to your soul. Imagine the Light wrapping the soul like a soft blanket, softening shock and fear. Say silently: 'You are safe. You are loved. You may go into the Light.' Repeat this as often as you feel called.
4. Name and release for those who know some details
If you know a name, face or story, quietly name the person and say a blessing, '(Name), may you be freed from pain. May you find peace and go into the loving presence that is waiting for you.' Naming honours the life of the soul and helps release attachments.
5. Invite spirit guides and helpers
Most traditions teach that benevolent spirit guides, angels, ancestors, mentors, frequencies or elders are at our side. Summon them: ask for gentle, experienced helpers to accompany the soul and help the transition. Trust that you are not doing this alone.
6. Use simple rituals
Light a candle or a fire, burn a little sage or frankincense, offer water or flowers or ring a bell. Small, focused acts create sacred attention and can be powerful signs of transition for both the living and the dead.
7. Create a soft space for life review
Imagine that the soul is surrounded by compassionate witnesses; beings who help it see its life with truth and tenderness. Ask that the soul be shown the love and learning contained in even the most painful moments so that it can be free of blame and fear.
8. Speak for those who cannot speak
If the soul is angry or unable to accept love, you can speak healing phrases on its behalf, 'You are forgiven. Love itself forgives you.' Offer forgiveness as an energetic gift, not as an obligation that the soul must accept.
9. Practical acts of remembrance
Build an altar or small memorial, write a letter to the soul or hold a brief ceremony. Public acknowledgment and witnessed mourning help both the living and the dead to free themselves from isolation.
10. Support survivors and oppose harm
Spiritual work and practical action belong together. Volunteer, donate, advocate and support organisations that rescue, heal and protect the living. Taking a stand against the causes of violence is a sacred act.
- Cedar Rivers
If you find yourself awake and restless with sleep evading you, you might do something that could be very helpful for either yourself or others. I lay awake tossing and turning until 2am until I got up and wrote this article. I then went back to bed and slept soundly for several hours. I hope it helps you in some way. 25 September 2025