Artist: AkagenoSaru

The Winter Solstice is when the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere tilts the farthest from the sun.  This happens once a year in each hemisphere, creating the shortest day and longest night of the year. This year’s solstice coincides with the Sun entering Capricorn.

The Winter Solstice marks the middle of winter. The days will start to gradually get longer and the nights shorter.  Winter is the time when many mammals go into hibernation and rest. With less day light and colder temperatures, it’s difficult to hunt and gather in the cold with less daylight. Humans are not that different in the animal kingdom. Unfortunately, our current way of life does not support uninterrupted months of rest. It is, however, a time to indulge in much needed downtime.

Spiritually, the solstice is viewed as a time when the sun stands still. Its time to fine tune the last details. It represents the last burst of energy to win the race. It is the final wrap.

The solstice is a representation of the dark night of the soul. The longest night of the year reminds us that even though the night is long, the sun again will rise. We will awaken. The light will  come and the darkness will end.

The energy surrounding the solstice can feel intense and deeply reflective. Can you sit with what you find in the dark? What should be brought to the light? It is a time to make peace with the parts of yourself you may not look on too fondly and that of others.

With the sun moving into Capricorn, the energy will be grounded and realistic. Capricorn is one of the most down to earth signs of the zodiac. She is less dreamy and not too concerned with the trivial and anything deemed frivolous. This energy can play on the heavy solstice energy in being practical with your choices. The energy can aid in separating the murkiness-to see things as they really are.

As we move through winter and honor the solstice, let us share the enjoyment of this time of rest. Lets bring what is hidden into the light.