The Winter Solstice arrives on December 21, inviting us to receive the nourishment of deep rest, lean into the mystery, and embrace the darkness as we settle into the longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
What is the Winter Solstice?
The Winter Solstice is the shortest day and the longest night of the year. The solstice is a turning point: it’s as if the Sun was traveling and pauses to reverse its direction.
Solstice means “stilling of the Sun.”
In the same way that a new moon marks a renewal of the moon, the Winter Solstice marks a renewal of the Sun: from here, the days will gradually grow brighter until we reach maximum daylight at the Summer Solstice, which is like the full moon.
And so the cycle continues.
The Rhythms of Nature
To attune to the rhythms of nature is to be constantly reminded of the patterns we exist within, and that these same patterns exist within us because we, too, are a part of nature.
The solstice is a liminal space in the cycle of the year. At this time we are called to release what no longer serves us, to clear space for what has not yet been envisioned or imagined. It’s counter-intuitive in our culture of hustle and go, where we are conditioned to constantly be setting goals and taking action.
But the seeds of our intentions will not sprout without the requisite period of dormancy. The solstice heralds the arrival of winter, a time where the action above ground ceases in order for us to nourish the below-ground process.
There is nothing to do here but give yourself over to deep, nourishing rest and embrace the empty space.
If you’re seeking inspiration, here is a series of short haiku I wrote, and links to some previous essays about the winter solstice.
May you find nourishment in your rest.
What is your relationship with the dark? How comfortable are you with being in the mystery? How well do you allow yourself space for deep rest?
Winter Solstice Haiku
at Winter Solstice
find solace in deep repose
release and receive
on the longest night
surrender to the darkness
seek the light within
embrace dormancy
nourish your soul’s foundation
rekindle your flame
in liminal space
between moments and seasons
potential is born
Winter Solstice Rituals
If you’re looking for winter solstice rituals, here are some to check out:
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