How to Celebrate the Winter Solstice

kidsworld.com

The shortest day of the year, winter solstice, in the Northern Hemisphere has been celebrated since ancient times. Pagans, Christians and other religious and Earth-loving groups have celebrated in various ways.

My favorite way to celebrate is with my moon sisters around a fire, chanting, sharing stories, and drinking hot tea. When that not a possibility, I create my own ritual that intuitively comes to me. 

Many of my ideas have been shared or passed down. Most are inexpensive. Choose 1 or more from the list below and celebrate. 

HOW?

Moon Salutation

• share a meal with family and/or friends
• light a candle, or a candle for each person there
• remember the year and what you are grateful for
• share stories from the year 
• have a small fire and burn some dried herbs (depending on Air Quality)
• make an offering to the Earth 
• write a poem
• paint a picture
• sing or chant alone or with friends (ॐ सोमाय नमः om somaya namah) loosely translated-I surrender to the power of the moon.
• spend time in nature
• plant a seed indoors
• do some moon salutations
• meditate contemplating the New Moon (darkest moon)
• observe how you are feeling
• offer small, homemade gifts to neighbors, family or friends

WHY CELEBRATE?

Because you're happy to be alive. Because winter is on it's way. Because it's tradition. Because it's a way to honor Mother Earth. Because you can.

I'd love to hear about how and if you choose to celebrate the Solstice.

#wintersolstice