The winter solstice marks the start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Long nights and darkness are associated with the subconscious, dreams, and spirit. Thus, winter is a time for turning inward, reflection, and deep spiritual inner work.
Winter Solstice Traditions
In parts of the world, people celebrate the winter solstice the same way they’ve done for thousands of years. The rise and spread of scientific rationalism and intolerant religious or political views abolished or drove underground many solstice traditions.
For example, Christians severely curtailed Pagan beliefs and sacred practices. Still, they adopted and popularized many of their traditions such as hanging mistletoe, gift-giving, and the burning of yule logs. But, nowadays, the world is seeing a bit of a resurgence.
Spiritual Inner Work and the Solstice
Historically, the winter solstice was considered sacred and a solemn time. People gave offerings and paid thanks to Gods, Goddesses, or some other sacred representation of the sun.
Other cultures viewed the winter solstice as a time to rejoice. It was a sign that the sun would be returning. Daylight hours were increasing. Both signaled that all living things would soon be waking up and flourishing again.
Nowadays, energy healers and the general public conduct energy healing and clearing ceremonies. They create intention grids and reinforce them with crystals, herbs, and energy healing. Solstice celebrations are in a resurgence.
Winter Solstice – A Time to Let Go
On the winter solstice, people let go of what no longer serves them. One classic way to do this is to burn effigies. Effigies are figures that represent those they despise, who caused them great harm, or who had an unhealthy hold on them. People also burn lists of their undesirable behaviors and the year’s painful experiences. The idea is to transmute negative past experiences, freeing their future from their unfortunate past.
Additional cleansing practices might include smudging, ritual baths, biophysical purging, and detoxification with herbs, colonics, enemas, and special diets. Meditation, prayer, and other rituals are often combined with the detoxification process.
The deep cleanse is often said to open an individual or a community to access higher spiritual and personal connection and purpose. It establishes a clear and supportive foundation to articulate and usher in new intentions for a new year.
For many, the solstice cleanse process is a week or ten days long. Interestingly, ten days span the winter solstice and the New Year. Most people form their New Year’s resolutions over these ten days.
Next Steps
Use this time to reflect, set your intentions, and clear away what stands in your way. Consider journaling and try these 9 Winter Solstice Journal Prompts for a Fresh Start in the New Year.
If you need help with your inner work or fulfilling your intentions, consider my:
- Spiritual Life Coaching sessions
- Energy Healing sessions
