The 2020 Winter Solstice
What is the Winter Solstice?
In the northern hemisphere, this event happens in December and is nicknamed "the shortest day" because we experience the shortest period of daylight and longest night of the year.
The seasonal significance of the Winter Solstice is in the reversal of the gradual lengthening of nights and shortening of days. The importance of this time of year dates as far back as neolithic times, when survival was directly linked to the cycles of the seasons and was marked with celebrations of the symbolic "death and rebirth" of the Sun.
Energetically, the period leading to the Winter Solstice is a time of quiet contemplation and introspection; one could say an opportunity for review and to do some personal "house cleaning" ahead of a new cycle.
In this respect the Winter Solstice ties into the idea of "personal awakenings" and fresh goals and intents. Something like returning you YOUR personal light.
How can I prepare for this transition?
Meditative and mindfulness techniques that bring calm and stillness to your mind are powerful allies during this time of deep inner work. Traditionally we want to bring closure to our unresolved conflicts (outward and inward) and glean the best lessons from the experiences of the past year.
This can be hard to do if you feel caught in the cross hairs of work and social obligations, but do try to make some time to be alone with your thoughts, or a positive wish, to allow the quiet energies of this special time of year to infuse you with balance and joy.
Whether you are outside in Nature or a favorite indoor nook (candlelight bath?) - wherever you feel best is the correct spot for you.
Here are some opportunities to explore mindfulness and meditation:
- A Mindful Countdown to the Winter Solstice
- Introduction to Meditation: The Basics
- Shiné: Tibetan Calm Abiding Meditation
A Winter Solstice Blessing
May you have a warm heart, open hands, and a creative mind.
May you experience inspiration and brilliance, clarity, and focus.
May you laugh richly and deeply.
May you circle and celebrate, and change and grow.
May that which is waiting to be unlocked be freed.
And may you soar with the knowing that you are carried by a great wind across the sky.
Aho!
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