“I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says, ‘Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.”
– Lewis Carroll
This year on December 21st marks Winter Solstice for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter Solstice is a powerful transitional point between seasons, we experience the shortest days of sunlight and the longest hours of darkness.
Various religions, indigenous cultures and ancient civilisations have celebrated Winter Solstice. In the Pagan times, Winter Solstice was referred to as Yule and honoured by lighting a candle and decorating trees with holly – many rituals which have been adopted into Christmas celebrations today.
The energy of winter is dormant and potent, mirrored in the deep stillness of nature. Trees stand bare, frost covers the ground and wildlife slumbers. Winter is cold and dark, the perfect qualities to preserve and store.
As it is for nature, Winter is a sacred time for us to rest and reflect. The energy of this season encourages us to go within and look deep within ourselves, to recognise our souls desires. In this time of rest, it is not time to make changes. Let your energy restore and build, allow for new ideas and energy to arise slowly within you. Like a seed rooted deep into the darkness of the earth, ready for the suns life-giving rays to beam down, springing to growth and bloom.
We tend to avoid our own darkness, it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient when negative feelings emerge. However, allowing ourselves to feel our emotions, our darkness, our truth, we enable our own personal power. Understanding our truth supports our personal growth and transformation. It’s important to remember you are not your feelings, just like the change of the seasons, the return of brighter days is ahead.
Honour yourself this winter solstice by allowing yourself to release anything that no longer serves you. Winter Solstice is an ideal occasion to let go of emotions, fear, negative thoughts, anything that does not nurture your soul. Take time to acknowledge and honour endings in your life, clearing your path for new beginnings for the coming year.
Fire Releasing Ceremony
This can be done by yourself, with a friend or in a small group. Make sure your space is peaceful and fire safe.
Take a few moments to ground yourself, you can do this by taking a few deep breaths and visualising yourself being rooted to the centre of the earth from the soles of your feet.
On a piece of paper, write down the things you wish to release. When you are ready, throw the paper into the fire, one person at a time. Once all is burned make some noise, it is a celebration after all!
There are many ways you can honour yourself during this time of change, however you choose to celebrate just know all over the world there are many fires burning brightly.
Solstice Blessings to You!
Written By: Jordan Church
