Winter Solstice is Here

The Winter Solstice was Wednesday, December 21st.

It’s the shortest day, and the longest night.

Just as we’re affected by the changing of the seasons, the Earth’s tilt at this time of year signals a time of withdrawal and renewal; of hibernation and rejuvenation.

Solstice can be a magical, contemplative time—a night of spiritual reconnection and ritual. While solstice may not have gained the notoriety of Christmas, Hanukah, Diwali or Kwanza, many people celebrate it as a deeply meaningful holiday—a time to celebrate renewal, rebirth, and gratitude for the coming light.

One sage said, “Nature itself is inviting us to really accept ourselves, so we can grow and cleanse and prepare for personal growth.”

It can be a time of turning inward, a time of tuning into a deep sense of intuition—trusting your inner voice. Many people like to use the solstice as a time of deep meditation—to reflect on what has been and what will be.

Ancient cultures feared the light of the sun would not return unless they performed vigils and rituals on the solstice. Some refer to solstice as the rebirth of the sun—and not coincidentally Christmas celebrates the birth of the Son.

The pagans were early observers, followed by the Christians stole the winter solstice from the pagans, and capitalism stole it from the Christians. 

But like seeing a blanket of fresh snow, we feel anything is possible.