How does the winter solstice affect astrology? What happens on the winter solstice
How does the winter solstice affect astrology? What Is the Winter Solstice? Everything You Need to Know
The winter solstice is when the Sun reaches its most southerly declination and is seen as a moment of balance between the darkness and light of the year, it is a powerful cleansing and reawakening of energy.
Signalling to individuals, it is time to understand and balance the darkness and light- good and bad within themselves.
Astrologically and spiritually, the Winter Solstice is the time for you to go inwards, to take the time to honour and nurture your authentic needs and self.
The winter solstice is a special day that marks the ‘rebirth’ of the Sun. For some people, it is also a time to reflect on their spiritual, pagan or other beliefs.
If you’re curious about what this all means and want to learn more, this article will provide an in-depth understanding of the winter solstice.
Solstice is a celestial phenomenon which happens twice annually – once to signify the onset of winter and on to herald the start of Summer.
On these occasions, the Sun will reach its peak or nadir in relation to the celestial equator, a grandiose term for the imaginary circle in the sky.
The winter solstice is both the shortest and darkest day of the year. But fear not, for the winter solstice signals the gradual return of sunlight and brighter days.
Why is the winter solstice so important?
It reminds us that even though things may be or seem bleak now, the summer solstice will be here before you know it, bringing a renewed sense of warmth and joy.
A winter solstice is an annual event that signals the end of a season and the start of another.
It has been celebrated since ancient times and still holds tremendous meaning for many cultures around the World.
New starts
Astrologically speaking, the winter solstice marks the beginning of a new astrological year.
During this time, the planets and the cosmos’ energies can be felt more strongly, allowing us to tap into powerful insights and understanding.
The Winter Solstice is a unique opportunity to become more in tune with our true nature, using the Planetary powers to make positive changes in our lives.
Later in this post, I will explore in more depth the astrological meaning of the winter solstice, how it can inform and influence our lives in the coming year, and how you can use this energy effectively.
I will also investigate the significance of the spirituality and culture of the winter solstice, including tips on celebrating it.
In the UK and surrounding areas, many people go to places such as Solway in firth, which is on the UK and the Scottish borders, and Zennor head in Cornwall.
Tennyson down on the isle of man, or Stonehenge and Glastonbury, to perform rituals or watch the Sunrise and the early sunset on the winter solstice.
Astrologically speaking, does the winter solstice impact life on Earth?
It is important to note that the Solstice doesn’t necessarily have an overriding influence on members of all the zodiac signs; nevertheless, the winter solstice is not insignificant astrologically.
The winter solstice marks the astrological and spiritual period of death, renewal and rebirth. It is best used for self-reflection, having gratitude, rituals and preparing for the coming Winter months.
We can take this as an opportunity to fill ourselves with renewed assurance, optimism, and faith. Furthermore, uplifting celestial influences may also be experienced during this festive season.
It is also time to celebrate the waning of the light, recognise the return of winter, and see the beauty of darkness, giving a promise and possibilities of a new beginning.
The winter solstice is also a time to contemplate life’s fragility, find solace in nature, and honour the Earth’s cycles.
This is the one-stop Wholistic guide for everything winter solstice related.
1. Definition of the winter solstice
The term ‘solstice’ originates from the Latin “Solstitium”, which translates to ‘Sun stands still.
This is because the Sun pauses before altering its course northward or southward, depending on if you live in a place where the Solstice happens in June or December, as we will see below.
Also, at the winter solstice time, the Sun appears to reach its most southerly position against the starry sky.
The winter solstice marks the astrological and astronomical winter; astronomical and astrological seasons depend on the position of the Earth in relation to its distance from the Sun.
In Vedic- constellational astrology, this happens when the Sun is in the constellation of Sagittarius.
And in western-tropic astrology, it happens when the Sun is in Capricorn.
Astronomically and astrological, the winter ends on march 20-23rd in the northern hemisphere, Which is the start of spring, kicked off by the spring equinox.
In the southern hemisphere, the winter period ends between 20-23rd of September, which is the beginning of spring in those nations.
However, the metrological winter is based on the climate and the temperature.
It begins in the northern hemisphere on December 1st, ends on the 28th or 29th of February each year, and around June 1st in the southern hemisphere.
Before the winter solstice, the days are shorter, and the nights longer; the winter solstice is the time of year when the shortest day and the longest night occur and when the Sun is at its lowest point from the perspective of the north pole.
What happens on the winter solstice?
At the time of the winter solstice, the northern hemisphere is tilted furthest away from the Sun.
The Earth is tilted on its axis at all times, and the path of the Sun rises and falls every day of the year, Depending on whether the Earth’s pole is facing the Sun or moving from it.
During the winter solstice, the Sun remains below the horizon of the North Pole throughout its orbit; when viewed from the southernmost part, the Sun can go, which is 23.5 degrees south of the equator.
The luminescent Sun beams down directly above the Tropic of Capricorn at high noon; the tropic of Capricorn is the imaginary line that encircles the Earth.
When does the winter solstice happen this year?
The winter solstice will happen on Wednesday, December 21st 2022, at 21:49 GMT
In the Northern Hemisphere, it is most commonly observed between December 20- 23rd, while in the Southern Hemisphere, the winter solstice is celebrated between June 20 -23rd.
The winter solstice signifies the change from the autumn-fall to winter.
Many cultures across the World’s nations celebrate the winter solstice with festivals and unique ceremonies.
The daylight typically lasts 7-8 hours during the winter solstice, and night lasts 17- 18 hours, compared to Summer when daylight lasts between 17-19 hours and nighttime 5-7 hours.
This is the same for both the southern and northern hemispheres, yet winter in the northern hemisphere is Summer in the south and vice versa.
Geeky facts about the southern and northern hemispheres in relation to solstices.
The Winter Solstice: Earth's journey around the Sun
In the Southern Hemisphere, as the Earth orbits around the Sun and when its vertical rays reach their northernmost point at the Tropic of Cancer.
This happens as the South Pole slants away from the Sun by approximately 23.4 degrees N(north)
When this happens, this is the start of which Summer in the northern hemisphere and the beginning of winter in the southern hemisphere.
As the Earth orbits on its axis, it is constantly on a 23 ½ degrees tilt, while the North Pole is inclined about 23.27 degrees, typically rounded to 23.4 degrees away from the Sun.
As its rays strike southwards from the equator as they shine down on the Tropic of Capricorn 23°27′ S (south), the Summer begins in the southern hemisphere, and winter starts in the Northern hemisphere.
The Earth’s 23 and a half degrees tilt on its axis causes the Northern and Southern Hemispheres to exchange places in the Sun’s spotlight each year.
It’s not the Earth’s distance from the Sun that determines winter and Summer, but the Earth’s tilt – which is a subtle yet powerful movement.
The winters solstice's importance in ancient cultures- in summary, I will talk more about its significance across cultures later
Throughout recorded human history, the winter solstice was a celebration time for many ancient cultures.
The Celts celebrated the winter solstice as a festival of light and the birth of their sun god, while the Romans celebrated it as the Saturnalia, a gift-giving celebration.
Saturnalia marked the return of the Sun to the sign of Sagittarius. This event was and is still seen as a time of new beginnings and release from all negative energy. They celebrated by having sex, eating figs or drinking wine to signify purification.
Ancient Greeks commemorated the Solstice by honouring Apollo, the god of the Sun, and ushering in the new year with festivities.
The winter solstice has also been observed by various Native American tribes, such as the Hopi of the Southwest, who view it as a time of spiritual renewal.
The winter solstice relevance in modern times- summary
The winter solstice is still a phenomenon of great importance today; as mentioned above, imarks the shortest day and longest night of the year and is still celebrated by numerous cultures across the globe
The winter solstice still has a strong spiritual significance in modern times. It is seen as a time to let the past be and prepare for regeneration-newness to come into your life.
Taking time to plan for your future, regardless of past events or mistakes.
Many cultures and alternative groups see the winter solstice as the beginning of the new calendar year. In addition to its cultural relevance, the winter solstice is important for scientific and practical purposes.
Astronomers use it to measure the tilt of the Earth’s axis and use the results of their observations and calculations to identify the exact date of the Solstice.
While farmers may use it to gauge the length of the days to plan their crop planting, weeding and harvest times, traditionally, the Solstice marked the end of the current farming season for agriculturalists.
Understanding the symbolism of balance- the astrology and Yin and Yang of the winter solstice
The symbolism of balance is an integral part of winter solstice astrology.
At the time of the winter solstice, due to the current location on the Earth’s tilt on its axis, the Sun is always in the constellation of Sagittarius.
Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign, reminding us to be flexible in the coming year.
As we use fire energy, we burn things to the ground to build new, uplifting, productive habits to replace energy-draining and self-destructive ones.
Sagittarius energy is also- Yang – doing energy, but being a mutable sign, Sagittarius can also embrace the feminine-yin feeling energy, which is the feeling-reflective vibration.
The symbol of Sagittarius is the archer, with an arrow, reminding you to make sure wherever you are putting your effort and attention is helping you aim- to manifest the things you actually need in your life because if you don’t, you will attract the wrong things in your life and not achieve your goals.
Finding the sweet spot between the expression of all your personality traits, the good, the bad and the downright ugly, without judging yourself.
Accepting all sides of you, allowing yourself to get out of your comfort zone and become more open-minded as you teach yourself to use your inner darkness constructively and use and grow the will to be more positive.
Regardless of past mistakes, heartbreaks, setbacks, and current obstacles, it won’t be easy, but it is possible if you are willing to change.
Do your actions match your thoughts?
Do your thoughts promote a healthy or negative attitude?
Do the relationships in your life support or neglect you? Are they in line with your authentic values and objectives?
Who is the authentic you? What do you really want to achieve out of your current lifetime?
How can you bring more understanding into your life? After all, the tagline -keyphrase for Sagittarius is, I see, are you stuck in old beliefs? Or are you open to new ideas, people and experiences?
Do you go over the top? Jupiter rules Sagittarius, and Jupiter in astrology expands everything it touches for good or bad; in what ways do you under or overexaggerate the facts?
For example, are you honest about how your own or other people’s toxic behaviours affect your life? Do you praise yourself for your talents and skills or fail to acknowledge and use them?
Do you actively work to reach your highest potential? If not, why? How do your past or current traumas stop you from visualising a better life for yourself and then carrying out healthy behaviours to bring order and balance into your life?
Are you straightforward, or do you bend the truth?
Are you open or close-minded? Why- do you form your beliefs or allow others to make up your mind for you?
Investigate and decide
Sagittarius energy wants you to seek and evaluate knowledge and decide for yourself what you believe in by being more optimistic and open to adventure.
Without being too idealistic, argumentive, self-indulgent, and harsh with our words as, after all, we must speak our truths, but as many people told me in my youth yet, we must consider our own and other people’s feelings.
Intending to refine how we handle people and situations, A lot of us fall into the habit of internally criticising ourselves, which can be destructive to personal healing and growth
Keeping in mind Its not often what you say that winds people up or hurts them, but how you say it, I do have sag energy in my chart, including my south node, meaning the realm of all things Sagittarius is my old stomping ground.
Envisioning a new way
Visualisation is a key concept of the Sagittarius vibration because if you cannot imagine- think of a better life for yourself- how can you ever bring positive changes into your life?
I will give tips on visualisation techniques later, which will help you make goals during the three-month period that makes the winter solstice period, from December 21st- 23rd in the northern hemisphere and March 21st -23rd each year in the south.
Because Jupiter, the ruler of Sagittarius, co-rules the 12th house, which is esoterically- spiritually ruled by pluto, the winter solstice is the time to transform all that needs to be refined.
Especially the things we hide or numb ourselves to, like our addictions and psychological, spiritual or emotional wounds.
Regardless of the suffering, it may bring and as the pluto-Neptune- Jupiter vibrations make up the underbelly focus of the winter solstice period.
Often takes us into our personal underworlds-the dark recess of our souls, so we can heal what we find there.
It won't be easy, yet it's what is called for on the spiritual and personal development levels.
After all, pluto energy is about recking havoc in your emotional, psychological and spiritual life until you choose to slowly grow into who you wish to be.
Well, fast changes never last; by the time most people are aged 20-30, we have tried one fast diet, self-help strategy or exercise regimen, and for most of us, they last anywhere from 1 day to a few weeks, then we are back to our old ways.
This is because we have first to understand why we partake in our addictive and self-destructive behaviours in the first place before we have a chance to change them.
Secondly, you will have to understand and manage your obsessions, the ways you feel neglected or abandoned yourself; its important during the winter solstice to pay attention to where pluto is in your birth chart and what aspects it makes to other planets or luminaries
Because the area pluto is in your birth chart, it typically represents the areas in your life where you will have to work alone to resolve your self and soul-destructive habits.
The placement and aspects of Sagittarius and Jupiter in your chart play a big part in the ideas and experiences you need to find your highest truth and signify the best ways to chill out and relax.
Because you must never forget that although life is about self-improvement, we must always have fun along the way or at least make work fun.
Finding your inner equilibrium
Planning, routine and organisation are crucial to success and starting to re-evaluate your life, especially your relationships, thoughts and behaviours during the winter solstice, with the intention of bringing more balance into your life.
Whatever your goal(s) may be, take time to avoid extremes; as mentioned, farmers use the winter and summer solstice periods and the spring and autumn equinoxes to plan their planting and harvest strategies.
It is in this same vein you should take the time to make share you have enough resources to get you through this period as the days and nights get colder.
We must plan our eating and clothing habits more, ensuring we are adequately nourished and warmed to withstand the bleak weather of the coming winter months.
As well as making allowances for the extra cost the winter period can bring, such as spending more on heating and electricity costs, as many people spend more time indoors during this time.
Again we see the need for equilibrium coming up again.
The ancient Chinese concept of Yin and Yang speaks to the balance of opposing yet interconnected forces with an individual, for we all have dark and light within us, whether we acknowledge or have yet met these parts of ourselves.
Yin and Yang, are two inseparable forces which create a perfect balance between light and dark in the universe, Yin, meaning “female” or “moon,” stands for the dark, the feminine, the passive, and the Earth.
In contrast, Yang, meaning “male” or “sun,” is associated with light, masculinity, activity, and the heavens.
This balancing of Yin and Yang is believed to bring health and harmony to individuals, societies, and the universe alike.
Balance is needed to stay grounded and centred during this time of transition; it won’t be easy to find; it may take months, years even, yet a life of self-improvement is much better than a life of self-destruction that leads to confusion.
Doing your best to cultivate a balanced mind and spirit, finding out tools such as books- audio or traditional, online videos, and therapy.
Talking to someone with experience or using self-help-psychological-spiritual courses or other tools will help you to move through the winter season and find the stability and clarity you need.
Consider the winter solstice period a time of self-healing, understanding, forgiveness, management, love and care as you nurture your inner resources and reflect on what aspects of your life need to be balanced for you to be healthy, fulfilled, and content.
How does the winter solstice affect astrology? What Is the Winter Solstice? Everything You Need to Know, continued
The astrology of the winter solstice on Wednesday, December 21st 2022, at 9:49 PM GMT
Connecting to your authentic self and the rhythms of nature and the Earth can be an incredibly illuminating and downright magical experience.
At the time of the winter solstice, it’s a great time to slow down, reflect, and embrace the unique energy of the season.
Seek out moments of stillness, and find your innermost self among the cosy warmth of a crackling fire and hot cocoa.
Whether you’re taking a walk in the woods or sitting in meditation, find joy in the simple things and allow yourself to explore the depths of your own being.
Taking the time to observe and listen to the natural World around us can help to increase our understanding of our personal development and allow us to explore our potential in ways we never even imagined.
Sitting out in a grassy meadow and listening to the birds chirping can be surprisingly therapeutic- remember to wrap up warm, or how about playing online outdoors streams if you prefer the warmth of your home, yet want to view the scenes of nature?
Or, if you feel a bit daring, you can even try to imitate the birdsong to connect to the Earth’s natural rhythms.
Who knows, maybe you will discover a hidden talent in bird calling!
The winter solstice takes place this year when the Sun is in the 6th degree of Sagittarius, the tagline of which is a game of cricket; I will talk more about the significance of this Sabian degree in a while.
Sagittarius, as expressed above, is straightforward mutable energy; mutable signs are known to be highly changeable and love to experience new things in general.
At the time of the Solstice, Sagittarius is calling us to get out of our comfort zones and reflect on the dimness of the Sun’s rays and the shortness of the day.
Beckoning -calls us to acknowledge our inner darkness and to mourn what is gone and what we have lost over the past year; facing our shadow is not; click here to read about shadow work and how it can help you during this period.
But as we are still dealing with the Sun, here, it is asking us to look at the ways we dim our inner light.
Draining the life force to recharge your vitality, the astrology of the winter solstice continued
The Sun is symbolically represented as the source of life and energy in astrology. The conscious mind, ego, fighting spirit and the determination to live, create and move forward on the spiritual, emotional, psychological and financial- material-earthly levels.
When the Sun is transiting in the constellation of the centaur, who is half human and half horse, it reminds us to embrace the things we cannot see as much as we do the things we can.
Wanting us to expand our consciousness and try new things, ideas and beliefs, giving up on being self-critical, judgemental and prejudiced.
Ceasing from letting our past dictate our future, none of this is easy, and it’s best not to try to change everything at once, as I said earlier.
It is best to pick 1-3 things you can work on changing over the coming year, allowing the optimistic, enthusiastic, happy-go-lucky energy of the transiting Sagittarius sun to guide you.
Unconditional understanding, peace and love can be found by dedication to improving yourself and facing the darkness within ourselves and the World; at first, it can make us highly fearful, anxious and hopeless to do so.
Yet if we keep working and walking, transforming our lives, it can get better, but they may not be miraculous changes.
It can be something simple yet very profound as committing yourself to manage your low moods effectively, so they no longer stop you from moving forward or getting closer to your higher power.
At the time of the winter solstice, the vitality of the Sun is at its lowest, yet after the solstices have passed, the intense energy gets stronger day by day.
Brighter days will come
It signals to us individually and collectively that better days can come to us if we are willing to work for them daily.
If we balance the need to meet the practicalities of life, yano the adult stuff like working, looking after our overall well-being, and paying bills with our craving for pleasure, Yano the Netflix with or without chilling.
We can all love to do, hooking up and all the other distractions that, if overly done, stops us from reaching our goals.
You must learn to be patient with yourself and avoid restlessness as you bring about the much-needed transformations in your life.
Avoid excess even of the most positive of habits, such as exercise, as focusing on anyone are of our life, or well-being always leads us to you being out of equilibrium.
And although you may want to run from acknowledging your, self-destructive behaviours, addictions, traumatic emotions or your inner darkness, it’s best to face whatever comes up for you as the winter months go on.
Rather than expending energy attempting to cover up our shadows, accepting and honouring any negative feelings that arise is more beneficial.
Un numb yourself, take your time, don’t rush, and spend time in silence, thinking about the trauma you still have to heal and how it will enrich your life-4eva
After all, it’s human nature to want to bury our darkness deep down inside; facing toxicity, negativity, and darkness is always easier said than done.
Nevertheless, even if it feels difficult, it’s important to remember that there’s nothing wrong with experiencing difficult emotions – they are a natural part of being alive.
Besides, when we try to deny our emotions, they tend to have a way of creeping back up and biting us in the bum.
Now is the time to go within, reflecting and taking stock of where you are.
Although scary, embrace the darkness and silence, and if you can be patient with the process, your intuition can guide you to new inspiration.
Training yourself to understand and use the winter’s energy to help you uncover and cultivate -grow your inner power, to re-evaluate your life so you can find clarity and discover the way to manifest your highest potential.
When we get scared of our shadows, we miss out on a huge source of our personal strength!
The key is not to let the darkness take over but to work with it, channelling it into a creative or any other project or hobby that allows you to let it out safely as you transform yourself into an even better you!
By allowing ourselves to feel our emotions and experience our darkness, we open ourselves to a spiritual transformation.
The darkness can be seen as a chalice, a vessel through which we can fill our souls with lighter and more balanced emotions.
As we grow in self-understanding, self-love, forgiveness, and emotional management, we can look upon our emotions and darkness with a newfound perspective.
We can take our pain and sorrow and use it to build something more beautiful and meaningful that sets us on a path to healing and growth.
Our darkness is a powerful force, and with patience and resilience, we can use it to our advantage, allowing us to move forward into a brighter and more fulfilling future.
The astrology of the winter solstice in focus on December 21st, 2022, the aspects, the sabin degrees and their meaning
Mercury conjunct Venus
Mercury makes a conjunction with Venus at the time of the winter solstice, allowing us to communicate diplomatically and listen to each other’s needs with an open mind.
Although the strongest conjunct between Venus and Mercury doesn’t happen until December 28th, the union still applies the time of the winter solstice and supports meaningful discussions in intimate relationships.
Mercury conjunct Pluto
Yet Mercuries Conjunct to Pluto can make people manipulative. Some people say extremist things, and take explosive action to get their point across, yet support deep conversation, avoiding the surface levels of chatter.
This power can help those starting writing or research projects have sharp intellectual judgment, taking an all-inclusive approach to get to the bottom of any issues and deliver good work.
This energy can also be used to convince others for the good or bad; people can trick others into getting what they want, or any communication.
You receive right now can be deceptive, so gather all the facts, especially in social and intimate settings.
Supports innovative ideas and expression; those with strong Uranus or north node energy in their chart may leave the old to step into the new and unknown.
Although this can be scary, as long as you don’t just seek adventure for the shock of it or state things to shock and disarm negatively, this influence supports all routines or projects which can change your life or others for the better.
Another aspect that supports that original ideas and that sharp judgement and observation skills, and resolving instead of exploring conflict, allows you to look positively at even the most negative things.
On the spiritual level, those of you, who want to be authentic bringers of change for humanity may be given insight into a way to do so, yet know before we try to change the World, we must transform ourselves.
The subconscious- ethereal- lateral thinking and conscious-logical mind can work together; if you can stay grounded, intuition can be accurate right now, and some may gain flashes of inspiration.
Great for all manifestation work and energy cleansing and realignment rituals, which can be as simple as a nice bath, burning some white sage or Paolo Santo.
Gives the ability to compromise in all relationships and with your lower and higher self, increases intuition and gives the power to become truly independent, breaking away from conformity for those who wish to do the hard work to do so.
Becoming more enthusiastic about life, fun can be had in relationships, intellectual, scientific or spiritual stimulation, Another aspect that supports starting something new and exciting!
Break away from the mundane and challenge yourself to try something different. A little bit of fun and adventure can bring joy and optimism to your life.
Some of you may experience an emotional or spiritual awakening due to this influence; fated relationships, friendships, or creative partnerships can begin or deepen, but be careful about leaping into any new connection or committing to an existing one.
Make sure you see what is rather than what you want to be. Still, it can be the real thing, going within to reveal your highest wishes, someone in a dream or waking life that inspires you to do better.
Soul -higher consciousness connections, starting a beneficial project, making wise choices that will increase your self-worth and belief.
Influences feeling creative, inspired, passionate in your outlook, and having the courage to express yourself. Imaginations can soar-ascend, and ideas come alive if you make strategic plans to bring them into reality.
Harness the power of expression through music, poetry, film and art. Appreciate the beauty of creativity, and set your dreams in motion.
Increases compassion for yourself and others, helping those less fortunate than you can enrich your life and theirs.
Another aspect allowing for a positive outlook on your life, enables you to strive towards your goals and reach them with determination.
Influencing belief in yourself and your capabilities leads to a great sense of self-confidence. Some of you can become enthusiastic, optimistic and inspirational and encourage those around you to reach for the stars.
Those in authority can be available during this period; calculated risk can pay off.
Negatively some of you can be so caught up in your self-expression t and block others from being themselves.
Overconfidence and negligence could lead to errors. Shortcomings in understanding pertinent details may occur.
Disagreements with authority or philosophical dissimilarities may disturb even the most closest of relationships.
For some, Intimate relationships can present challenges and emotional pain; painful endings may happen to make room for powerful rebirths.
Great for recognising and addressing early childhood feelings of rejection to create the opportunity to experience joy and connection in relationships in the future.
Developing empathy for yourself and others can help you prepare to uncover, understand, heal and manage your psychological or emotional trauma.
Another warning-that it’s essential to think before attempting to express yourself confidently, as being thoughtless or aggressive can cause conflicts.
This can lead to disagreements and emotional disagreements, which can be challenging for relationships.
To promote a balanced lifestyle, it is recommended to participate in activities and sports which require high focus and determination, as these can aid in releasing stress.
Reminding us not to let old-fashioned stagnant ideas or thought and behaviour habits keep us from embracing imaginative and ground-breaking new concepts!
If you’re tired of the status quo and long for progress and independence, seize this opportunity to make your mark!
Unleash the energy of the winter solstice and stoke the flames of your desire for something new.
Don’t be overwhelmed by what lies ahead; channel your excitement and make something incredible happen!
Start small and dream big! Don’t let the energy of negative thoughts prevent you from initiating great things – carefully choose which endeavours to embark on and create a plan of action.
Jot down your objectives and strategies, and prioritise the ones you are most passionate about to avoid feeling overwhelmed. You can turn even the biggest dreams into a reality with careful planning!
Esoteric aspects
Mars sesquisquare Pluto
For some of you, the rejection you experience from others at this winter solstice- because of your ideas and past or current actions, which can leave you feeling isolated.
Or your unforgiveness can leave you drowning in feelings of shame and regret; you must know we are all only doing the best we can at the time.
This aspect supports that some of you may decide to join a non-conformist group-ant mainstream culture group, but make sure it is not a cult.
Be careful who, what or where you seek comfort this Solstice; rather than run from the pain, try and embrace it as part of your experience.
Mars sesquisqaure pluto provides planetary support that although you may be ridiculed by others right now that it’s best, you follow your truth.
An indication that some of you will cut ties with friends, family and life as you know it, which will be painful for some or a significant relief for others.
Be careful how much sugar you consume over the solstice period and a few months because too much fructose can affect your adrenal glands and lead to impulsive and Rage fuelled behaviour.
Sun sesquisquare Uranus
Another aspect that warns what you eat, drink, or your environment can seriously affect your reactions, and unexpected events can affect your career or personal life; additionally, leaps of faith can bring the promise of excitement and renewal.
Sun
The Sun is in the 6th degree as Sagittarius; as I said before, the tagline for this degree is a game of cricket; cricket has specific rules, such as the ball cannot hit the body before it hits the bat or a foul is given.
Playing a game of cricket not only aims to increase your personal skills but also encourages fairness and collaboration, emphasising the importance of putting the group’s will ahead of individual desires.
At the time of this winter solstice, the emphasis is doing your part to make your family, community or World a better place.
For some of you, this will be on an individual level, others a collective, but regardless, the end game is the same: doing all you can to improve life for us all.
And if that just means changing yourself, instead of trying to change others, this seemly individual act is not that, as if one person vows to change themselves for the greater good, others may follow the lead.
Jupiter
The 6th degree of Pisces tagline is officers on a dress parade where Jupiter is at when it makes a square to the Sun during winter solstice 2022.
Again another symbol that calls for each of us to give even just a tiny part of our personal wishes for the greater good again doesn’t have to be a grand gesture like opening a social enterprise or spiritually
oriented group that works to uplift others in some way, which some of you may do.
It can be as simple as trying to be a bit more open-minded and working towards the greater good, with the planetary assurance that the benefits for humanity as a collective will be, is invaluable.
Uranus
The Sun also makes a sesqui-square to Uranus; Uranus is in the 22nd degree of Aries, the tagline of which is the gate to the garden of desire,
Again this symbol indicates the winter solstice energy wants us to remember that, yes, in some places of the World, there will and is currently scarcity.
Still, if we join forces as a global collective, we can manifest and live in collective abundance.
Not by some woo-woo crap as much as I love it, but by sharing all the World’s resources fairly, we can all that dream, hey.
Solo, it is almost impossible for an individual to thrive in the grand cycle of life.
Although many gain great wealth, often there are filled with great misery as others want to steal what they got.
If we share the World’s bounty and its misery, however, united, we can eventually realise our aspirations.
Everyone is theoretically capable of leading an abundant life – a beautiful vision that is within can be met with hard work and embracing the evitable pain and uncertainty that comes with living; sharing is the power of unity and is caring, after all!
The Sun’s energy on its shortest day reminds us that times may be dark, but spring and its promise of renewal and growth always come.
The pursuit of joy is an integral part of human life, yet in today’s World, we miss it as we are busy competing rather than cooperating with each other; this Sabian degree reminds us.
The more humble and ethical our ambitions, the more meaningful our goals become; using mind over matter to see the light through the darkness that’s present and having faith in your ability to change your life if you wish is the message of the winter solstice.
Fire and screaming rituals for letting go and manifestation during the winter solstice
You could have some fun and celebrate your life’s endings and new beginnings with a special ceremony or ritual!
Setting the mood is a great way to remember your past and prepare for the year ahead.
When you acknowledge the gifts of nature, a higher power, god or anything else you believe in.
You make room for new things to grow in your life.
Farmers till the ground and turn their soil or change their growing mediums, getting rid of waste, in preparation for the new planting season, as they look forward to the harvest of the coming summer and autumn fall.
A winter solstice ritual can help you let go of the toxic thoughts, behaviour and relationships in your life as you learn to work with darkness and stillness. So you can invite balance and harmony into your life.
The performance of rituals can imbue our lives with purpose, providing a tangible signifier of our connection to a greater collective of living beings.
By attuning ourselves to the rhythms of our individual lives and to the changing of the seasons, we are made aware of the dynamic nature of our relationship with the natural World.
Writing the things you want to release or manifest down on a piece of paper and burning them can be powerful in terms of starting the process of acknowledging the things you need to let go of.
Please ensure you choose a safe place to burn your pieces of paper and be careful.
Setting the intention
At times we humans love to control things and get in the way of allowing events to unfold naturally, so the burning ritual is also good to set the intention to manifest the things we want into our lives.
The burning, in this case, signals that you are ready for your intuition, guides or the higher power to lead the way as you follow the directions given.
After all, burning is a much more dramatic gesture than simply crumpling up the paper and throwing it in the trash.
You can even make a dramatic speech and point dramatically as you throw the burning paper into the air if you really want to get into the role of a wizard or witch!
We have to learn to laugh at ourselves and the World at times……..if only to keep our sanity, and healing is hard enough without taking time out to have fun and be silly.
Humour aside, there are several benefits to burning written words. First, it can help you acknowledge the things you need to let go of. Writing down your thoughts and feelings allows them to be aired out safely and quickly.
This process can help you overcome the denial or stubbornness that could prevent you from moving forward.
Secondly, by releasing these thoughts into the ether by burning them into ashes, they become less oppressive – they no longer have control over you!
Of course, you will have to actively work to heal your traumas, so it may be best to write them down in a journal, so you remember what it is you need to continue to work on to bring the transformations that the winter solstice calls for into your life.
Finally, by putting your ideas onto paper rather than keeping them locked away inside your head (or on some electronic device), You create space for new ideas to enter your mind unimpeded – allowing more creativity to flow freely!
Creating the atmosphere during your winter solstice, letting go or manifesting rituals
Lighting candles and spending time in silence and contemplation. Listening to music, painting, chanting, singing, meditating, doing tai chi or yoga.
Playing an instrument such as the piano, drums, singing bowls, or cymbals are other rituals that people perform during the winter solstice.
Candle lighting can be a beautiful and relaxing ritual; the flame provides light and warmth, while the smoke from the candle serves as a symbol of peace and tranquillity.
In the 1970s, Arthur Yanov pioneered the concept of primal screaming as a form of therapy.
He believed that by allowing people to revisit and express their past traumas, they could release the tension and stress that had been building up in their modern lives.
Yanov encouraged them to vocalise their emotions through this cathartic process, often through loud, powerful screams.
This purifying process, he argued, could help individuals find peace and clarity in their present lives and set them on a path of self-discovery and growth, which is what the winter solstice symbolises on the esoteric and spiritual levels.
Yanov’s revolutionary approach encouraged those struggling with mental health issues to explore their inner selves and in doing so, gain a newfound understanding of themselves and their unique perspective on life.
The winter solstice, is a time of darkness and often extremely cold weather; life can seem bleak as it gets dark in a blink of an eye.
Your mind and actions may literally be calling out for the warmth of Summer, and the cold can make you feel frustrated, and a screaming ritual at the time of the Solstice can help you let out this pain.
Some benefits of primal screaming are:
- Repressed memories may become more accessible, and emotionally painful experiences may be brought to the surface. This can lead to relief from psychological symptoms such as anxiety or depression.
- Primal screams may help release pent-up anger or frustration, which can improve relationships and reduce conflict within families or work teams.
- Primal Screaming may help individuals resolve personal conflicts or find closure on unresolved issues earlier in life; this won’t happen in one session.
Yet if you use this as part of your wellness and self-care routine, you can reap benefits as the summer dawns.
- When done in a supportive and safe environment, primal screaming can be an effective form of self-expression and communication.
Or you can create your own unique ritual to acknowledge the winter solstice if the above doesn’t float your boat. Still, if you are serious about releasing and manifestation work, it is vital to set your intention before, after, and during the exact solstice time.
So in 2022, that will be between 9.20- 10.20 PM GMT.
What is visualisation and how to use it for your winter solstice evaluation and planning
Visualisation is another powerful tool for increasing your chances of success, and it’s especially helpful during the winter solstice.
As mentioned earlier, the winter solstice is traditionally considered to be a time of rebirth and new beginnings.
Which may motivate you to achieve your goals; additionally, the darkness associated with this time of year may help you focus on your goal more intensely.
Visualisation has long been believed to be essential to spiritual, psychological and personal development.
It is used by many people, including athletes, musicians, artists and entrepreneurs, to prepare for and perform at their best.
Visualisation allows you to experience the outcome you seek vividly and concretely, which can help increase your chances of achieving it.
In fact, research shows that visualisation can even improve physical performance in some cases!
For example, studies have shown that imagery training can lead to faster muscle growth and increased strength in resistance training exercises.
Additionally, visualising success before athletic contests may result in improved performance outcomes.
So how does visualisation work?
The process begins with selecting a goal or task you want to achieve.
Next, you create mental images of what this goal looks like – from the beginning until the end.
You should also picture all possible obstacles along the way (both minor and major) and any rewards or bonuses associated with completing the goal.
Finally, take action steps towards fulfilling your goals – starting small if necessary – and keep track of your progress using a monitoring system such as a journal, mind map, vision board or calendar.
There is no one right way to visualise – what works best for one person might not be the perfect approach for another. However, some basic guidelines include setting attainable goals and focusing on positive imagery rather than negative thinking.
Additionally, keep in mind that visualisation takes time and effort to become effective; start with small goals if you are just getting started. And always remember to stay focused throughout the process!
Taking time to visualise the things you want to let go of and manifest into your life for the coming year is another great way to celebrate the winter solstice.
The spiritual meaning of the winter solstice
The Winter Solstice is an extraordinary day, not only because it marks the birthday of the Sun, but also because of its profound spiritual significance.
Marking of the Sun’s journey
During Solstice, the Sun reaches its most extreme points in its journey across the sky, either the highest or lowest point, depending on the season.
This is a powerful symbolic representation of the cycle of life and death, light and dark, and growth and decline.
It is a time to pause and reflect on the changes and growth that have taken place in our lives in the previous months and to look ahead to the coming months and the changes they will bring.
It is a time to celebrate the cycles of life and honour the Sun and its powerful energy.
On the spiritual level, the Winter Solstice is a time of revitalisation and reawakening and is the perfect time to set intentions that will bring you closer to your goals over the next year.
During the Solstice, the spiritual energy of the planet is increased exponentially because of the alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, which creates a powerful cosmic energy field that influences us on spiritual, emotional, and physical levels.
So it is an excellent opportunity to participate in rituals that increase your spiritual energy and help you connect more deeply with your higher self.
On a collective level, the increased spiritual energy of the Solstice encourages us to come together and celebrate life in all its forms.
Below are in-depth strategies breaking each of the above suggestions down and giving you step-by-step ideas on how you can do the things that the solstice period calls for
1. Shift in energy levels
One of the most significant astrological effects of the winter solstice is a shift in energy levels.
During the winter months, the Sun’s rays are weaker; nevertheless, the winter solstice marks the start of increased energy for the astrological season, which will amplify as the days get longer and the Sun’s ray gets stronger.
Before this period, you may have felt that you lacked the emotional, spiritual, psychological or physical energy, and this sensation will start to lessen as the winter moves closer to spring.
Your sense of inner and outer vitality will increase; this rise in mood is often associated with a renewed sense of hope in your ability to enjoy or change your life, and you may feel rejuvenated.
This energy can be harnessed to think about and work towards your goals and dreams, making the winter solstice an ideal time to begin any new projects.
Tips on how to increase your emotional, spiritual and psychological energy levels during the winter solstice period:
- Spend time with loved ones, especially those who make you feel truly happy and contented.
- Take some time to relax by indulging in your personal hobbies or interests – this can help stimulate your creative side and restore restful sleep.
- Think about what brings you joy and focus on positivity during these dark months; positive affirmations can be a great way to empower yourself during this challenging season!
- Honour your intuition and rely on your gut feelings; trusting in the unknown can be a powerful way to access new energy
- Take care of yourself by eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants – this will help boost your immune system and aid recovery from any stressors or physical activity during this time of year.
- Consider using natural therapies such as aromatherapy, meditation or yoga to increase your inner calm and improve sleep quality.
- Get out and explore your neighbourhood, town or city – spending time in nature can also be very rejuvenating, activating all of the senses and fuelling creativity.
- Invest in some positive self-care items, such as a hot water bottle or essential oil diffuser, to promote relaxation and stress relief when you need it most!
- Remember that even during these dark months, there is always hope and possibility – focus on looking towards the future with optimism and intention, and be grateful for all the blessings in your life.
Last but not least, remember that even though the winter solstice may be challenging for some, things are always possible – with optimism and intention, everything can change!
2. Opportunity for new beginnings
The winter solstice metaphysically is a time of deep reflection and renewal, as it marks the longest night of the year and the official start of the winter season.
It is seen as a time of potential and an opportunity for new beginnings; the top things to keep in mind from this post are that:
- This is the time to develop a plan of action for manifesting our dreams and goals.
- Take stock of where we are in life and plan to move forward.
- It is a time to look inward and focus on our inner growth and development to move forward in life positively and productively.
Tips on how to prepare for new beginnings:
Planning is essential to ensuring that your new beginnings are successful. Organise your time, organise your resources, and make sure you have everything you need before starting.
Don’t feel the pressure to achieve things instantly; take your time and do things in a way that makes sense for you. Know when to let go and trust that the universe will take care of the rest.
yourself: The most important thing is believing in yourself – even if others don’t believe in you initially, keep going until someone finally takes notice.
When you’re feeling doubtful or scared, take some time to visualise what your new life will look like. Picturing yourself in the position that you want to be in is often incredibly motivating.
Having a solid plan will help keep you on track and helps avoid any surprises along the way. Write down your goals, how you’ll achieve them, and when/where you’ll make progress updates with friends and family members.
Gratitude helps us focus on the good in life and put things into perspective. When we’re mindful of all that we have – both big and small – it can help us feel more positive about our new beginnings, no matter what they may be.
There is no “right” way to prepare for a new beginning, but by following these tips, you’ll be on the right track.
3. Reflection on the past year
As the winter solstice approaches, it is a time for reflection. Looking back on the past year, it can be a time for self-reflection and appreciation for all the highs and lows.
It is a time to reflect on any changes that have occurred, look ahead, and set intentions for the coming year.
During the winter solstice, it is crucial to be grateful for what has been and to look ahead with excitement, ready to welcome the new.
Taking a few moments to be still and quiet in the present moment, reflecting on the past year, can be a powerful way to move forward.
Tips on how to practice self-reflection:
- Start with a simple question or observation rather than dwelling on difficult thoughts. Carl Jung recommended beginning with the “what if” scenario: What would my day be like if, i.e. I could do what I really wanted_____?
- Pay attention to your body and how it feels when you practice self-reflection
- Write down your reflections in a journal or some other medium that will allow you to revisit them easily
- Take some time every week or fortnight to reflect on your year, rating yourself on different aspects of personal growth (e.g., being more understanding, compassionate, forgiving etc.)
- Be patient with yourself – your reflection process may take some time to master, but with practice, you will be able to overcome any resistance and develop a more reflective approach towards your life.
4. Let go of your past mistakes and welcome new beginnings, as you can not change what happened before; but you can create a better future by learning from your past
The winter solstice is a time to reflect on the past and consider how you can make changes for the future.
This is an excellent opportunity to let go of any mistakes you may have made in the past and focus on repairing any damage you may have caused.
By facing these challenges head-on, you can create a brighter future for yourself. First, you should make a list of all the mistakes that you want to address.
This will help you focus on areas where you need to improve.
Next, go through each mistake one by one and consider what could have been done better.
Ask yourself why it happened and what can be learned from the experience.
Finally, take action based on your learnings – this may involve making changes in your life or working with others to create a more positive future for everyone involved.
As you take steps to let go of your past, the winter solstice is a time to accept or start thinking of new beginnings, exploring the possibilities that could lie ahead in the upcoming year.
It’s time to take a step back, evaluate all that you have accomplished, and think about how you can use your newfound knowledge and experiences to create something new.
The winter solstice is a time of transition, and it can be an exciting time to explore new horizons and take on new challenges.
This is the perfect time to cultivate an attitude of openness and be prepared for the exciting possibilities that await.
5. Acknowledging the light within
The winter solstice’s astrological meaning is rooted in recognising the light within, focusing on and acknowledging the inner strength, courage and potential that lies within each of us. On this day, we can take a moment to pause, reflect, and recognise the beauty and power of our inner light.
This light can become a source of warmth and comfort during the winter – a reminder that this season shall pass.
The winter solstice is a time of hope and optimism when we remember the power of our inner light to help us find our way through dark times.
To sum up, the Winter Solstice is a great time to reflect on the astrological energy of the season and how it can influence our lives. By tuning into the energies of the Solstice, we can use this time to prepare for the shifts ahead and make changes that are aligned with our highest potential.
Step-by-step suggestions on how to see, work with and grow your inner light
- Spend time focusing on your thoughts and feelings rather than what others say or do.
- Pay attention to the things that make you happy – whether that’s spending time with family and friends, enjoying a favourite activity, or simply being in nature.
- Practice self-compassion; remind yourself that you’re not alone in feeling challenged at times, and understand that everyone goes through different stages of growth and development over time.
- 4. Believe in yourself – don’t take others’ opinions of you too seriously, and don’t let what other people say get you down.
- Cherish your relationships with family, friends and loved ones – they can be invaluable sources of support during times of change.
- Believe that you can do amazing things – no matter what others say, or how challenging the current situation may seem.
- research and take inspiration from the greatest minds and hearts throughout history, and be grateful for the lessons they can teach you.
- Connect with your intuition – it is an essential source of guidance in times of change and can help you make wise decisions about how to approach a situation.
- Be open to new experiences – go out on dates or meet people outside your usual circle, experiment with different types of food or music, and explore new places – this will broaden your horizons and challenge you in positive ways.
- Let go of what doesn’t serve you – whether that’s old habits, negative thoughts or relationships that no longer support your highest potential.
It can be challenging when we’re feeling challenged and uncertain, but remember that you are not alone.
Many resources are available to help guide you through these difficult times as you journey towards growth and transformation, no matter how challenging it may seem! Keep on going.
6. Connecting with the season's energy
One of the most beautiful aspects of the winter solstice is the ability to tap into the energy and power of the season. Connecting with the season’s energy is a great way to honour the Solstice and reset your life’s focus.
Take a few minutes to go into nature and connect with the Earth’s energy as the Sun shines less in the sky. Visualise the energy of winter and think about how you can use its power to shift your life.
Take in the beauty and mystery of winter and use it to energise and invigorate your own life.
Tips on how to connect with nature's energy:
- Tie a string around a tree or shrub to gather energy
- Light some scented candles and sit in silence or meditation mode. Let the candle’s fragrance fill your senses.
- Take deep breaths of the fragrant air and let it relax your mind and body.
- listen to calming instrumental music
- Get outside, preferably close to nature. Take some time each day to connect with nature in some way – go for a walk, play outdoors in the snow or sleet, etc.
In conclusion, to this segment of this article, the Winter Solstice is a time of spiritual balance and celebration, a time to take stock of where you are and where you are headed.
It is a time to reflect on the importance of duality and the potential of the light and dark within each of us.
As we look to the future, may we be mindful of the spiritual energies of the Solstice and be open to the possibilities that lie ahead.
The Goddesses of the winter solstice Facts, Folklore, and More!
Each culture has its own unique traditions, rituals and symbols to mark the Solstice, including special goddesses.
From the ancient Norse goddesses to the Aztec goddesses, we will examine the stories, myths and legends behind each of these powerful female deities.
In addition, we will discover the roles that each goddess played during the winter solstice, how they were honoured and the offerings that were given in their name.
We will also look at current celebrations and how modern cultures still honour these goddesses during the winter solstice.
With this in-depth exploration, we hope to better understand the power and importance of these goddesses and their role in the winter solstice celebrations and rituals
The Slavic goddess Morana was associated with winter solstice celebrations in many Slavic nations.
She was often seen as a goddess of winter, death, and darkness and was said to bring the cold winter season with her.
She was also associated with fertility and the cycles of the seasons and was believed to bring both death and renewal.
During winter solstice celebrations, people would often invoke her name and ask for her blessing for an affluent and plentiful new year.
One important goddess associated with the winter solstice is Guan Yin, the Chinese goddess of compassion, mercy, and kindness. She is also known as the Goddess of Mercy and the Goddess of Unconditional Love.
Guan Yin is often depicted with a thousand arms, each reaching out to provide comfort and healing to all in need. She is seen as a protector and is venerated by many people around the World.
During the winter solstice, many individuals, especially in China and surrounding regions, make offerings and pray to Guan Yin for a safe and prosperous year ahead.
Demeter is the Greek goddess of the harvest and the provider of grain; she is also the mother to the persophone.
Persephone is known for being the goddess of spring, vegetation, flowers, and fruits.
She is also known for being abducted by Hades, king of the underworld, who allowed her to return to Earth for nine months after spending three months- the winter period with hades.
The winter solstice represents, on the esoterica level, the time Persephone has to spend with hades in the underworld.
Hades is symbolised by Pluto and Scorpio in astrology and her return to Earth after spending three months with Hades.
Persephone is also associated with the Mycenaean goddess Phersu.
Demeter, Persephone’s mother, is considered the goddess of the season of winter; She is often depicted in art and literature as a motherly figure, nurturing the Earth and all its inhabitants.
Demeter is said to have created the seasons and is seen as the bringer of spring and associated with the darkness of winter.
Her symbols are the cornucopia, a horn of plenty, and the ears of wheat which symbolise abundance and fertility.
She is often seen as a symbol of courage, faith and renewal, reminding us that Summer will come again after winter because she allows her daughter to go to hades so that spring will come.
Symbolising the need for each individual to let their past go so that they can welcome the new into their life.
Modron is a Welsh goddess associated with the winter solstice.
She is the daughter of Afallach, the Celtic god of apples. She is often depicted as a young woman bearing a basket of apples.
Modron is believed to represent the abundance of nature and is associated with fertility, renewal, and the cycle of life.
She is a popular figure during the winter solstice celebration, as she is said to bring abundance and joy.
Holda, also known as Holle, is a Germanic goddess associated with the winter solstice. She is the goddess of fertility, plenty, and the land.
She is often depicted as an older woman wearing a white gown covered in snowflakes and carrying a basket of apples.
In pre-Christian Germanic cultures, she is said to preside over the harvest and the dead and is believed to bring prosperity and peace to her devotees.
During the winter solstice, offerings of food, drink, and gifts are made to Holda in the hopes that she will bring good luck and abundance in the coming year.
In conclusion, goddesses associated with the winter solstice are found in many nations around the World.
These goddesses often represent the transition from death to life, reminding us of the importance of living in the darkest moments of the year. They remind us of the beauty of life, even in the most challenging times.
Each goddess has a unique story, and honouring and celebrating them as part of our winter solstice celebrations is essential.
How people of African descent celebrate the winter solstice
African cultures, particularly those of the black African diaspora, celebrate the Winter solstice as a time of spiritual reflection, community gathering, and meaningful traditions.
The way Africans celebrate the winter solstice can be said to be unique.
We will dive into the customs, practices, and rituals of African people in regard to the winter solstice, explore how African cultures honour the natural cycles of life, celebrate the spiritual aspects of the season, and welcome the coming of a new season.
Additionally, we will discuss how winter solstice is celebrated in different parts of Africa, from traditional cultural practices to modern contexts.
1. Rituals of the Winter Solstice
Black Africans often celebrate the winter solstice with a variety of rituals and traditions; The most common practice is to light a bonfire and jump over it.
This ritual is thought to bring good luck and protection for the coming year.
Another popular ritual is to honour the sun god, who is seen as the giver of all things.
People often gather for prayers and offerings to show their gratitude for the sun god’s strength and life-giving power.
Some African communities also celebrate the winter solstice by feasting and gathering with family and friends to enjoy each other’s company.
2. Traditional Food is eaten during the Solstice
During the winter solstice, black Africans celebrate with a range of traditional dishes.
These include potato-based dishes such as nshima, a staple in many African countries, and sadza, a type of porridge made with cornmeal.
People enjoy dishes like fufu and Akara, dumplings made from groundnuts in some areas.
These dishes are often served with different types of soups and stews, as well as side dishes like okra, mbuzi, and kapenta.
Many of these dishes are often prepared in traditional ways, using clay pots or grills, and are served with a variety of sauces or herbs.
This traditional fare is seen as a way to honour the ancestors and thank the gods for their abundance.
3. Dancing and Music
One of the most important aspects of celebrating the winter solstice for black Africans is dancing and music.
Traditional African dances, such as the Gumboot dance, are often performed as part of winter solstice celebrations.
These dances serve to bring people together and celebrate the renewal of the season. Additionally, music is a significant part of African solstice celebrations.
Traditional African music is often played during solstice celebrations, providing a joyful atmosphere for the occasion.
Music can range from drumming to singing and includes the playing of traditional instruments.
Celebrating winter solstice with dancing and music is a vibrant and joyous way to mark the changing seasons.
4. Gifting and Sharing
Gifting and Sharing are integral to celebrating the Winter Solstice in African culture. It is believed that the act of giving is an expression of gratitude for life and a way to spread joy and goodwill to others.
Many African cultures exchange gifts of food, like fruits, nuts, and traditional African dishes. People also give gifts of clothing, jewellery and other objects of meaning.
On the special day of the Winter Solstice, African families and communities come together to share stories and to show appreciation for what they have and each other.
5. Light of the Winter Solstice
The fifth way Black Africans celebrate Winter Solstice is by using the seasonal light of the Solstice.
Many Africans light up their homes, villages, and even fields with bonfires, candles, and other forms of light.
This is done to honour the Sun’s return, as it marks the beginning of longer days. These lights are believed to bring warmth and protection to the community during the cold winter months.
The ritual of lighting fires is also symbolic of the collective fire of the community and is a reminder of the sacredness and strength of unity.
To sum up, for Africans, the winter solstice is a time of celebration; each culture has unique traditions and rituals to mark the end of the winter season, but all of them involve singing, dancing, and feasting.
They also involve honouring the ancestors, celebrating the return of the Sun, and making offerings to the gods.
As the African people come together to celebrate the winter solstice, they are reminded of their shared heritage and their strong sense of community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the winter solstice marks the northern hemisphere’s shortest day and longest night of the year and is a time of celebration and reflection.
It is a time to celebrate the gradual rebirth and return of the Sun and the longer days that come with it, as well as to reflect on the accomplishments of the year that has passed.
The winter solstice is an important event that marks the end of the darkest days and the beginning of a new year.
Many cultures and individuals celebrate the winter solstice in many different ways around the World, with some cultures practising folklore and traditions.
In this blog post, we’ve outlined the history and cultural significance of the winter solstice and the date and time the winter solstice happens.
FAQ's
At the winter solstice, the Sun takes a much more meandering and slower journey through the sky.
The Winter Solstice is a time of rebirth and renewal, as the longest, darkest night slowly fades and a new dawn is ushered in.
For many, it’s a time to reflect on the past year while looking ahead to new possibilities and excitement.
On this day, the hours of sunshine are at their fewest, but the good news is that the Sun begins to climb in the sky and linger longer until the Summer Solstice, when the darkness reclaims the night once again.
Asking us to let go and celebrate in the extraordinary beauty of the Winter Solstice, a time for reflection, anticipation, and hope for the future.
The winter solstice is a magical time of year, when the shadows grow longer, and the darkness envelops us in a warm embrace. It is a time to reflect on the past year, and to find joy in the small moments.
There is a unique energy in the air, a feeling of stillness, promise, and hope.
This is a time to look inward, to connect with our inner wisdom and nurture our creative spirit. The winter solstice is a time to be still and to find beauty in the darkness. It is
it’s no shock that the phases of the moon have a hand in the myths surrounding infants born during the winter solstice. For instance, folklore states that tots born beneath the December sky on the winter solstice will be blessed with luck and prosperity.
But it’s not just any winter solstice that is said to bring fortune to a newborn; it’s the full moon.
On the day of the full moon, the alignment of the Sun and the moon is said to bring a special kind of magic.
The winter solstice happens happens typically on or near a new moon when the moon goes dark, and as the Sun goes, “dark” too. It’s a rare occasion.
It is believed that any baby born on the same day will have a life full of luck and love.
They will also have a unique connection with the natural World, allowing them to move between the realms of the physical and the spiritual
The winter solstice is a time of profound energy when the Earth’s axis pauses, shifts and turns the other way.
For the three days of Solstice, we can feel the effects of this cosmic standstill in our bodies, minds and souls.
It is an opportunity to connect deeply with our roots, reflect and bask in the rich beauty of the season.
The winter solstice is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of all life and the cyclical nature of the World around us.
It is the perfect time to connect with our loved ones, bask in nature’s beauty, and take a moment to appreciate all that we are blessed with.
The winter solstice brings an energy of stillness, an invitation to go within and explore the depths of our soul.
As the cold air wraps around us and the days become shorter, the darkness and silence become the perfect backdrop to nurture our inner journey.
In these moments of introspection, our hearts can open up to reveal our long-held dreams and new hopes.
By connecting our awareness to the natural cycles of the season, we can discover a deeper understanding of our purpose and heal the parts of us that have been dormant.
With the Solstice’s energy of stillness, we have the perfect opportunity to reconnect with the power of our breath, remember our power and sow the seeds of intention for the coming year
