The Winter Solstice: Rituals to Welcome New Beginnings
The Winter Solstice (today!) marks the shortest day of the year, the rebirth of the sun and is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world. Signally new beginnings and brighter, warmer days ahead it is the perfect time to think about our wishes and intentions for the upcoming year as well as the things we wish to leave behind.
If you’re like me and need a tangible way to mark a new chapter, then I’ve put together a few ways you can do that tonight. So, if you’d like to celebrate this traditional festival with me, go ahead and light some candles, put on your fairy lights and let’s welcome in the chance at a new beginning for 2021.
Watch the Sunset
Honour the transitioning journey of the sun by wrapping up warm, heading out for an afternoon walk (furry friend optional) and taking a moment to watch the sunset. Take out your headphones and just be aware of being in nature, the feel of the weather on your face and the sounds of the cold earth beneath your feet as you walk. Use the fading sunlight as an opportunity to let go of any struggles or worries you’ve had this past year, laying them to rest as the sky darkens and making space to welcome in the abundance of possibilities for the new year.
Fire Ritual
Made all the more special by the early sunset and long evening this simple fire ritual will help ground you at the moment and carve out some time to think about what you want from the coming year. You can also do this as a pair or small group.
The Ritual
Light a fire or candle outside. (Blankets, marshmallows and mulled wine are recommended but optional.)
Take two small pieces of paper.
On one piece, write three things you wish to let go of.
On the other, write three intentions for the year ahead.
Then, taking the paper with the things you wish to let go of, read them aloud and then place onto the fire. Take a moment to close your eyes and feel your worries lift away and disperse with the smoke.
Then take your intentions, read them aloud and then place into the fire. This time watch as the fire offers up your intentions to the sky and sends them out into the world.
Take some time for yourself.
If you’re not lucky enough to have a crisp, dry winter day where you are, then there are plenty of other ways to mark the Solstice.
One of the great pleasures of winter is climbing into a piping hot, candlelit bath as the rain hits the window. Soak the long, dark evening away and add in some traditional herbs of the solstice like chamomile, cedar and bay for the full experience.
You could also mark the day by only taking some time for yourself to journal or read or do some meditation. It is the perfect opportunity to indulge in your favourite calming activity and enjoy the peace before the rush of Christmas and New Year.
I am sending love, light and many generous blessings to you and yours this Winter Solstice!
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Written by Ali Critchley
