Today is the Winter Solstice, a celestial event that we humans have marked as significant since prehistoric times.
Our ancient ancestors observed that the length of darkness at night would increase, featuring more dark, long winter nights until a moment arrives that is one of the most darkness.
This is the event of the solstice, which is when the earth’s tilt is at its farthest point away from the sun.
And then, what would follow this moment of darkness is a return back to the light.
In many cultures, the Winter Solstice has historically represented the idea of hope, rebirth, renewal, as well as the promise of the return of life, light, and vitality in the spring after the seeming death of winter’s cold darkness, and a portend of lighter, easier times ahead after the experience of the “dark night of the soul”.
There are many structures that scholars believe were erected to mark the Winter Solstice including the Neolithic marvel that is Stonehenge.
No one knows exactly what this incredible structure was used for, but the sun lines up exactly between the monoliths at sunrise on the solstice, so it is largely believed to be a calendar of some kind that marked this important, powerful day.
Nearly every culture worldwide has a holiday that marks the event of the solstice, many of which borrow traditions from more ancient, pagan holidays (especially Christmas).
But one thing all of these holidays have in common is that they celebrate the idea of light over darkness, death and rebirth, hope and renewal.
It is the reincarnation moment we experience each year, the phoenix from the ashes, and triumph over death.
It is the darkest night, but also the return of the light.
Take some time to create a ritual around this important time, set some intentions and celebrate that you have made it through the dark and that the light is coming.
Like our ancestors in nearly every culture globally have done since the beginning of time, honoring the cycles in nature reminds us that we are a part of something larger than us.
And that there is no death, as the darkness always gives birth to new light.
Happy Winter Solstice!
