What is the Winter Solstice?
The Winter Solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year.
Although it marks the official start of Winter in the Northern Hemisphere and occurs when the Earth's tilt is farthest from the sun, it is in contrast a day that reminds us Spring is lingering in the distance.
It is a time of renewal and reflection, symbolizing the return of light as days begin to grow longer after the Winter Solstice.
When is the Winter Solstice?
The Winter Solstice typically occurs between December 20 and 23, depending on the Earth's orbit.
In 2024, it will occur on December 21.
The energy of the solstice will be palpable however, before and after this date. Yuletide or Yule (more about this below), is a celebration which spans 12 days.
Why is it also called Yule?
Yule originates from ancient Norse and Germanic pagan traditions.
It was celebrated as a festival honouring the rebirth of the sun and light during the darkest part of the year. Many Yule traditions, such as the burning of the Yule log, were incorporated into modern winter holidays like Christmas.
Goddesses of Winter Solstice
In many pagan traditions, the Winter Solstice honors goddesses associated with light, rebirth, and transformation. For example:
Freyja (Norse goddess of love and renewal).
Demeter (Greek goddess of agriculture, symbolizing the return of life after winter).
The Great Mother or Earth Goddess, embodying the cycle of death and rebirth.#
The Winter Solstice represents:
Rebirth - The return of the sun and longer days.
Inner Reflection - A time to pause, reflect on the past year, and set intentions for renewal.
Hope and Resilience - A reminder that even in darkness, light will return.
Spiritual Connection - Deepening your relationship with nature and the cycles of life.
Yule emphasizes:
Connection to Nature - Honoring the Earth’s cycles.
Celebration of Light - Welcoming back the sun’s strength and vitality.
Rituals for Winter Solstice and Yule
Burning a Yule Log
Choose a log, decorate it with greenery, and burn it in a fireplace or outdoor fire. Write down wishes or intentions and toss them into the fire.
Candle Ritual
Light candles to represent the return of the sun and invite light into your life. Use white, red, and green candles for Yule symbolism.
Meditation and Reflection
Reflect on the year’s lessons and set intentions for the future. Journaling during this time can be especially powerful.
Decorate with Nature
Use evergreen branches, holly, mistletoe, and pinecones to symbolize life, fertility, and renewal.
Feast and Gratitude
Share a meal with loved ones and express gratitude for the blessings of the year.
Create a Winter Altar
Include symbols of the sun (gold ornaments, candles), evergreen plants, and crystals like citrine or garnet.
Walk in Nature
Take a quiet walk in the woods or a nearby park to connect with the stillness and beauty of winter.
Words and Affirmations for Winter Solstice and Yule
"I honour the darkness and welcome the light."
"With every new dawn, I grow stronger and brighter."
"I release the past and embrace new beginnings."
"I am grounded in nature’s cycles of renewal and transformation."
"The light within me shines brightly, even in the darkest of times."
Meditation for Winter Solstice
Head over to Yoga Borne YouTube for a FREE Winter Solstice Meditation - click here.
Sacred Seasons: Seasonal Living Course
Interested in seasonal living living, sacred cycles, the Wheel of the Year?
Take a look at our Sacred Seasons Course for 2025.
Each seasonal Sabbat (celebration) will see us join for a workshop including Yoga, holistic wellbeing, information about the Sabbat, and crafting / creating something to take home.
Each workshop can be purchased individually, or purchase the whole course and create your own Grimoire / Book of Shadows for the year, that you can continue to add to.
Purchasing the whole course will also save you £40, and encourage you to commit to this self care nd nourishing time for yourself each month.
More information about the Sacred Seasons Course - click here.
Each workshop is also available to purchase individually via the YB online shop - click here.
