Let there be Light
Happy Winter Solstice! Winter Solstice is a wonderful transition into rebirth on the planet. It is the darkest, longest night of the year, when the sun is directly over the top of the Tropic of Capricorn. It never truly falls on a given day each year, but is usually between the 20th and 22nd December, according to ancient Farmer's almanacs. It is a time of releasing the old and making room for the new. It is the moment we bid the cold midwinter darkness goodbye and embrace the hope of brighter days to come. A moment to be grateful for the fiery orb that our planet circles, for without the Sun's lustrous power, there would be no life. In many ancient Cultures it is celebrated as the "rebirth of the sun", as the following days up until Summer gradually become longer. In the Pagan tradition, it is the death of the Crone and the conception of the Maiden. Rituals are performed to cleanse out past energies and bring in the light of new beginnings. It is a time of honouring our radiant Sun and rejoicing in the glow of bonfires that represent the life force. In the Christian tradition, the birth of Jesus, the "light of the world", is celebrated. The Mayans, Aztecs and native Americans also carried out sacrifices and festivities praising this astronomical moment.
Winter Solstice is also a great time to cleanse, release and restore the body, mind and soul. It is an ideal moment for reflection, redirection and renewal. Here are a few tips to make the most of this energetic shift.
Journalling is an excellent tool to get your thoughts flowing and helps to let go of emotions that no longer serve. Tear the page out containing the negative thoughts you journaled and throw it into the fire or burn it in the flame of a candle, releasing all ties to those emotions. On a fresh page, write about what you are most grateful for and the positive changes you'd like to manifest in the coming year.
Nurture the body with a warm bath, a nutritious soup and herbal teas.
Indulge and pamper yourself with gentle stretches, Yoga or a massage. Sun Salutations are perfect for firing up Agni ( digestive inner fire ) and relieving stress.
Meditate! Simply stare into the flame of a candle or into the fire and immerse your senses in it's radiance
Decluttering your home of things you no longer need is another way to welcome in new energies.
Get Hygge! Decorate your dwelling with soft, warm lights, candles, bright coloured cushions and cozy blankets.
Share a meal and celebrate with friends by the fire. Bonfires under the stars are also a great way to connect with nature!
There are many ways to acknowledge this glorious natural phenomenon. Most of all remember to celebrate life! Embrace change, be open, let go! Always know through the darkest moments, there will be light once again!
