Winter solstice

Getting outside is an almost non-negotiable piece of our Solstice celebration. A hike, ski, snowshoe, or sledding adventure is just the thing to celebrate the longest night! Being a fire celebration, each Solstice night at sunset we bundle up and head to the woods to light a campfire in the snow.

Many traditions and festivities celebrate the Winter Solstice, the most important of which is protecting the home from unwanted entities. The veil is thin between the physical and metaphysical world, so many bless a Yule log before sparking it up and regard its light as a way to ward off evil aspirations.

Here are some examples of winter solstice blessings:

“May you find peace in the promise of the solstice night, That each day forward is blessed with more light”.

“May the longest night and the shortest day, bring rest to your mind and soul, I pray”.

“May you always be blessed with the light from within, and may well-being be yours as the new cycle begins".

"May we utilize the serenity of this blessed winter season to journey deep within our own hearts".

The winter solstice is a time to reflect, pause, and embrace gratitude as the return of light is welcomed. Some ways to honor the winter solstice include:

Taking a peaceful walk at sunrise or sunset

Practicing yoga, journaling, or mindful movement

Setting goals for the season and lighting candles

Cleansing the area by burning frankincense incense

The winter solstice has many spiritual meanings, including:

Balance: The winter solstice represents balance, as it marks the longest night of the year and the gradual return of light.

Reflection: The winter solstice is a time to reflect on the darkness and its role in growth, healing, and renewal.

Connection with nature: The winter solstice is a time to connect with nature’s rhythms and appreciate the interplay between light and darkness.

Renewal: The winter solstice symbolizes rebirth, fresh starts, and renewal. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and recharge as you prepare for the year ahead.

Intention-setting: The winter solstice is a meaningful time for setting intentions.

Luck and safety: The winter solstice symbolizes luck and safety.

Togetherness: The winter solstice is a moment of togetherness, where you can see old friends, indulge in good food, and give and receive tokens of affection.

Releasing unwanted habits: The winter solstice is a time to release unwanted habits.

Honoring the cycles of nature: The winter solstice is a time to acknowledge the cycles of nature.

Some people perform rituals during the winter solstice, such as lighting candles and meditation.