Photo of Winter Solstice
Winter Solstice is just a few days away from Christmas this year. Some of you may have hear the phrase “Winter Solstice” in the past, but do you know what it means? Do you honor its significance? Winter Solstice marks the onset of winter. On December 21st this year, the sun will be at the lowest point in the sky and it will slowly creep across the skies of the Northern Hemisphere and result in the longest night of the year for us here in my part of the world. In Indigenous cultures all over the planet, our understanding about how the world, both in spirit and in the physical dimensions, is based on natural and universal laws. The Winter Solstice reminds us that this is a time to burrow in… to turn the flame from high to simmer. This is the way of the animal kingdom that we all too often forget we’re a part of. During this time, I encourage you to reflect and to really honor what our bodies naturally want and need to do to maintain balance to honor our bodies and spirits. Below, you’ll find 5 ways to observe and honor Winter Solstice.

Keep a Journal and Collage

One of the ways to honor our earth’s cycle is to reflect on what you’ve learned over the last year. When we write down our lessons and sit with them, we give them space. In that space, we are allowed to leave what no longer serves us for release as we look forward to the inevitable new sun that comes with the Spring Equinox.

If journaling isn’t what brings you joy, you can also get creative through the artistic expression of building a collage. Anticipating this time every year (as it’s one of my absolute favorite times of year), I always do a New Year’s Collage Retreat. This year, I feel like we owe it to ourselves more than ever. If collage feels more your speed, feel free to register here for my Illumined Collage™ Retreat. An Illuminated Collage™ is a little different than most vision boards in that this collage technique actually predicts your year and informs your steps!

Eliminate Clutter in Your Space

Many of us look at the task of decluttering our living spaces as a chore that we dread. Don’t turn this into a chore. The whole time you’re removing clutter, think of how you’ll feel working, sleeping, eating and living in a place where the energy can flow freely.

Dried Herbs

Winter Solstice is a Great Time to Learn Herbal Medicines

The planet is full of miraculous medicinal herbs, teas, roots and more. Many of the weeds we’re taught to cut and put pesticides on in our yards can help treat incredibly complex diseases. Why not put your head down learn what the earth provides in your own back yard to make you really grateful for just how prodigious that is. From there, you can study how to make salves and elixirs to keep in your own home’s first-aid kit.

lit ceremonial candles

Attend a Winter Solstice Ceremony

If you are a member of a local tribe, certainly attend ceremony. For some tribes, this looks like dance, singing, dancing, drumming and other rituals.

If you’re not a member of a tribe or can’t leave home, you can create your own ceremony right where you are. Light some candles and sit in the dim light. Appreciate the comfort you feel as you just bask in the glow of the candle light. Observe, feel and give thanks for the warmth.

Spend time Observing the Night Sky

I don’t know if you spend time admiring the night’s sky like I do, but it has so much to teach us if we’re open to hearing. It’s not just the night sky, but it’s the gentle swaying of the trees as the inconspicuous breeze slithers through her branches. I hope you listen for our animal friends off in the distance. Even in urban settings, other life can be found and appreciated.

I hope you take a time out on December 21st to spend some time observing this shift into ease and release. I’m so looking forward to spending time with you on January 3rd, 2021 for the New Year’s Illumined Collage™ Virtual Retreat. It’s the perfect time to tap into your creative side and see what the year ahead has in store for you. Click here to get signed up today.

I would love to hear your comments below about what your plans are to celebrate Winter Solstice in your home. Sending you big love in a nice warm, cozy envelope. Rest & Release well. XO – Licia