Winter Solstice
Festival of Rebirth
20-23 December in the Northern Hemisphere
20-23 June in the Southern Hemisphere
At this time we clear a space, creating a "spiritual cradle" for the return of the light.
The Sun, reborn at the Winter Solstice is like a new moon; for the first few days of the moon’s waxing cycle the new moon is not yet visible in the sky; in the same way at the Winter Solstice it is not immediately evident that the light has returned. Winter stretches out
before us; the sun is low in the sky and casts long shadows; and summer still seems a far-off dream. However, although it is not apparent to us yet, the Earth’s energy has shifted from: darkness to light; moon to sun; yin to yang; water to fire; inner to outer; and from contemplation to action.
The new solar year has begun; the light is expanding, and the days will gradually lengthen again. The light will continue to expand up until the Summer Solstice in June, when having reached its fullness it will once again begin to wane. The time for action is approaching, but it is not here yet.
On a spiritual level we create a sacred space at the Solstice, by pausing and taking time to reflect on, and connect with, the light within, enabling us to radiate warmth and sunshine out into the dark days of winter. Following the Solstice, as you spiral back out into
the world, let your actions be guided by this divine lamplight. Bring your awareness back to it whenever you feel alone, troubled, confused, or are at a crossroads and uncertain about which path to take. In the coming growing season, resolve to stay connected to this inner light and then everything you do will be illuminated and guided by your inner wisdom. What do you want to bring out in to the light over the coming months?
before us; the sun is low in the sky and casts long shadows; and summer still seems a far-off dream. However, although it is not apparent to us yet, the Earth’s energy has shifted from: darkness to light; moon to sun; yin to yang; water to fire; inner to outer; and from contemplation to action.
The new solar year has begun; the light is expanding, and the days will gradually lengthen again. The light will continue to expand up until the Summer Solstice in June, when having reached its fullness it will once again begin to wane. The time for action is approaching, but it is not here yet.
On a spiritual level we create a sacred space at the Solstice, by pausing and taking time to reflect on, and connect with, the light within, enabling us to radiate warmth and sunshine out into the dark days of winter. Following the Solstice, as you spiral back out into
the world, let your actions be guided by this divine lamplight. Bring your awareness back to it whenever you feel alone, troubled, confused, or are at a crossroads and uncertain about which path to take. In the coming growing season, resolve to stay connected to this inner light and then everything you do will be illuminated and guided by your inner wisdom. What do you want to bring out in to the light over the coming months?
At the solstice the light is just like a pinprick of light streaming into a darkened room, but over the coming weeks and months the light will expand until the room is flooded with shafts of bright sunlight. Whether you are old or young you will sense that shift of energy that occurs at the solstice and you will feel a sense of hope stirring deep within you with the return of the Sun.
In the beginning was the Tao
Which gave rise to yin and yang, Sunlight and Shadow, And the energy Of all existence. Yet beneath the dance of life, The Tao is always one, Mother of ten thousand things, Source of all creation. Tao 42 |
"This is Midwinter, the shortest day and longest night of the year. The restraints of winter have brought us rest and given us time for reflection and the incubation of ideas and dreams. Here in the stillness of the solstice we pause and become aware of our visions and the seeds of our future growth waiting for birth." |
Winter Solstice Yoga Practice
Enjoy this Winter Solstice practice as you take the time to pause and create a quiet space to welcome the sun back into your life.
For a shorter practice just use the first part of the practice, which is done lying down.
For a longer practice after the Warrior pose include a few rounds of Salute to the sun.
For a shorter practice just use the first part of the practice, which is done lying down.
For a longer practice after the Warrior pose include a few rounds of Salute to the sun.
Energising Solar Plexus Chakra Meditation
This visualisation combined with breathing can boost self-confidence. It is energising and uplifting and can induce a feeling of well-being and happiness:
Close your eyes, focus on your breathing and relax. In your solar plexus, imagine a sun radiating light and energy. Feel warmth and light there. As you inhale see the sun brighten and expand inside your solar plexus. As you exhale, feel this sun radiate energy through your whole body.
Inhaling: charge up
Exhaling: expand
Close your eyes, focus on your breathing and relax. In your solar plexus, imagine a sun radiating light and energy. Feel warmth and light there. As you inhale see the sun brighten and expand inside your solar plexus. As you exhale, feel this sun radiate energy through your whole body.
Inhaling: charge up
Exhaling: expand
"Let the beauty we love be what we do."
Rumi