I don't know about you, but every year I lament when the shorter, darker days arrive with the fall equinox, and rejoice at the arrival of winter solstice, when we celebrate the longest night and welcome the return of the sun and the promise of rebirth.
Astrologically, the winter solstice arrives in the northern hemisphere this year on Dec. 21, 10:27 pm Eastern Time. At this moment, Earth's poles are tilted the furthest away from the sun. Parts of the northern hemisphere experiences only just over 7 hours of daylight during this annual phenomenon, the official start to winter.
Anthropologically, cultures across the world have celebrated the solstice for millenia. Monuments dating from the Neolithic era (10,200 BCE) are believed to have been used in winter solstice celebrations because they align with the solstice sunrise. While specific traditions vary across the globe, solstice celebrations tend to include festive gatherings, gift giving, charity, bonfires, and rituals to banish evil spirits, promote good health and bring good luck.
Read on for inspiration on how to celebrate winter solstice with 5 heartwarming ideas that honor timeless solstice rituals, yet still apply to us here and now.
5 Ways to Create Your Own Winter Solstice Celebration
1. Gather With Friends
All cultures seem to agree that solstice is best enjoyed in the company of others. The essence of the winter solstice embraces coming together in the warmth of companionship during the darkest time of the year. Invite friends and loved ones to share in the celebration. You can organize a cozy dinner, a potluck with everyone's favorite winter dishes, or even a small outdoor gathering around a firepit, where stories and laughter can fill the night.
2. Make Wreaths of Evergreen Boughs
Creating wreaths from evergreen boughs is an ancient tradition symbolizing the continuity of life. As you and your friends craft these wreaths, take a moment to reflect on the cyclical nature of existence. Use this time to express gratitude for the life that endures even in the depths of winter. Hang the wreaths as a reminder of the ever-renewing spirit of the season.
3. Hang Mistletoe
Mistletoe has ties to Scandinavian solstice traditions, where it was used to honor the god of light. Hanging mistletoe in your home not only adds a touch of seasonal decor but also encourages moments of connection. Whenever someone stands beneath it, share a kiss, offer a heartfelt greeting, or simply take a moment to appreciate the bonds of love and light in your life.
4. Read Poetry
Incorporating poetry into your solstice celebration can deepen the connection to ancient solstice traditions from the middle east. Sufi poetry, rich in imagery of love and light, is particularly appropriate for this occasion and a favorite of mine to read during solstice yoga classes. During your own solstice soirée, gather your guests and take turns reading or listening to verses that inspire feelings of warmth, hope, and unity. Let the words kindle the inner fire of your souls.
5. Light Candles or Gather Round a Bonfire
The symbolism of light conquering darkness is central to the solstice. Light candles throughout your space or light up your fireplace to represent the return of the sun's strength and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Consider having a bonfire outdoors if possible. As you gather around the flames, meditate on the idea of inner illumination. Allow the bonfire's warmth and glow to inspire a sense of hope, clarity, and renewal in your hearts.
In Closing
This year, instead of lamenting the dark and bracing for the winter chill to descend, eagerly await the luminous embrace of the winter solstice by prepping for any of these 5 easy ways to create your own winter solstice rituals.
A Winter Solstice Blessing: (author unknown)
May you feel peace in the promise of the solstice night,
That each day forward is blessed with more light.
That the cycle of nature, unbroken and true,
Brings faith to your soul and well-being to you.
Rejoice in the darkness, in the silence find rest,
And may the days that follow be abundantly blessed.Â
Thanks for reading! May the solstice night bring you peace and the promise of more light.
Happy Winter Solstice!
Namaste,
Lara
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