Winter Solstice

Central Park at sunset on the first snow of the season.

The end of the year approaches and, with it, a series of festivities. Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, and other holidays all take place over these last few weeks of December. In the northern hemisphere, this is accompanied by the Winter Solstice on December 21st, the point in which winter officially begins and we encounter our longest night of the year. Though we endure the least amount of light now, it is after the solstice that the sun begins its slow return. It is the imperceptible return of dawn after the long night.

Long nights can feel daunting. Earlier sunsets and the pressures of a new year can feel like we have such limited time in which to complete a to do list that is a mile long. The magic of the solstice, however, lies in this limited and liminal time. Nights that stretch out before us are a reminder to give ourselves a season of rest. This is an opportune time for inner work, self-reflection, and journaling. We can use the darkness to access aspects of ourselves we may hide in the shadows. This time of year nudges us to consider that perhaps the way to shorten the to do list is not to burn ourselves out with time we don't have, but rather simply let go of things so we can appreciate the time we do have.

As we head into winter, I hope you can enjoy this special time of year in whatever way feels good to you. I encourage you to seek out the company of others whether it is family, friends, or new acquaintances. Sharing moments are often the simplest and most rewarding way to celebrate a good year or mourn a hard one.

Here are some journal prompts to center on quieting down and gratitude:

• What insights have I gleaned from my experiences over the past year?

• How can I release myself of obligations? What are to dos I can let go of without completing? What holiday events can I politely decline?

• How can giving myself more time and space allow me to show up more fully?

• Who do I want to make time for before the year ends? How can I be brave and show vulnerability in a relationship?

Ritual Ideas for the Winter Solstice

1. Create a sunset ritual. For at least one day, but this can extend throughout winter, attempt to limit your more traditional tasks to the few hours of daylight. This means taking a hard look at what you can realistically expect to accomplish. I encourage you to try to limit it to no more than three main tasks. Then, at sunset, go for a walk and feel the cold air bite your cheeks as you see how the December sun says goodbye. Upon return, try to softly light your home. If you can, light candles or a fire. You can also dim your lights or simply avoid any harsh overhead lighting with using just table lamps. Then, really embrace the long night. Have a few quiet moments to ask yourself, what does your soul really crave? That might mean putting on pajamas and resting. It might mean reading a book cover to cover. Or it could mean picking up a long-paused hobby like knitting. The point is to center your evening on restoration, not productivity. Even if you are creating or producing something, the aim is the process not the outcome. End your night by going to bed early, so you're ready to greet the sun in the morning.

2. For those who celebrate Christmas, it historically was associated with spirits (think A Christmas Carol). Since Halloween, we have existed in a time where the veil has been thin and it culminates at this time of year. Therefore, it is still a wonderful time to connect with those who may have died. Using a photo or something that connects you to them, incorporate this person into your winter decorations. Adorn it with twinkle lights, add it to a wreath, or decorate it with pine cones. Each night, spend a moment saying hello.

If you're interested in working with me to create rituals or ceremonies for you or your organization, drop me a line