The Winter Solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs when the Earth's axis is tilted furthest away from the Sun. It has been celebrated by many cultures for centuries, often as a time of rebirth and renewal.
Solstice, and winter in general, is a time when we naturally want to stay inside, snuggled up with a warm drink and maybe a roaring fire. It is often associated with introspection, letting go of the old, and preparing for new beginnings.
We have marked both winter and summer solstice at the studio since our very early days. If you can't get to one of our solstice events, you can still create your own ritual at home. You could invite a few close friends or have your own solitary tradition. Some people still celebrate with solstice rituals, such as decorating with evergreens, enjoying seasonal foods, and spending time in reflection. For many years, before I had the studio, I enjoyed an annual walk into the woods with friends. We would light a candle, set intentions, release what we wished into the flame, and share a toast to the return of the light.
Here are a few ideas to help you create your own solstice tradition:
Theme: Renewal, Rebirth, and Letting Go
Solstice, and winter in general, is a time when we naturally want to stay inside, snuggled up with a warm drink and maybe a roaring fire. It is often associated with introspection, letting go of the old, and preparing for new beginnings.
We have marked both winter and summer solstice at the studio since our very early days. If you can't get to one of our solstice events, you can still create your own ritual at home. You could invite a few close friends or have your own solitary tradition. Some people still celebrate with solstice rituals, such as decorating with evergreens, enjoying seasonal foods, and spending time in reflection. For many years, before I had the studio, I enjoyed an annual walk into the woods with friends. We would light a candle, set intentions, release what we wished into the flame, and share a toast to the return of the light.
Here are a few ideas to help you create your own solstice tradition:
Theme: Renewal, Rebirth, and Letting Go
- The Yule Log:
- Find a small, dry log (or a symbolic representation like a candle).
- Decorate it with greenery and ribbons.
- As you light it, say a prayer or intention for letting go of negativity and embracing new beginnings.
- Let the log burn slowly, symbolizing the gradual return of the sun.
- Feast:
- Prepare a simple, nourishing meal with seasonal ingredients.
- Share stories and laughter with loved ones.
- Leave a portion of the food out for nature spirits or those in need.
- Cleansing:
- Take a ritual bath with herbs like rosemary, pine needles, or yarrow.
- Visualize yourself shedding negativity and releasing any burdens you've been carrying.
- Make an Offering:
- Create a small offering to the Earth.
- This could be a handful of seeds, a piece of fruit, or a simple prayer of gratitude.
- Leave it outside for the spirits of nature.
- Shadow Work:
- Spend time in quiet contemplation.
- Journal about your fears, anxieties, and any unresolved issues.
- Acknowledge the darkness within you, without judgment.
- Stargazing:
- Find a dark spot away from city lights.
- Lie back and gaze at the stars.
- Connect with the vastness of the universe and your place within it.
- Storytelling:
- Research and share ancient myths and legends related to the Winter Solstice.
- Listen to stories of resilience and hope in the face of darkness.
- Create a Sacred Space:
- Decorate a special area in your home or outdoors with greenery, candles, and symbols of the season.
- Play calming music or use incense to create an atmosphere of peace.
- Connect with Nature:
- Spend time outdoors, even if it's just a short walk in the woods.
- Feel the cold air on your skin and notice the sounds of nature.
- Intention Setting:
- Take some time to reflect on your hopes and dreams for the coming year.
- Set intentions for personal growth, healing, and abundance.
RSS Feed