The Winter Solstice Is a Natural Change Agent
As we prepare to enter the winter solstice, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year, I was reminded of the magic in change of seasons. They are transformational moments in time and December’s winter solstice is one of them. It’s interesting because a second after the winter solstice ends, we begin the next day journeying back to more daylight. The change happens that fast.
The day the Sun turns around is a natural invitation for change.
The term solstice comes from the Latin word solstitium, meaning 'the Sun stands still.' On this day, from the Earth’s view, the Sun reaches its southern-most position over the Tropic of Capricorn where it seems to stand still and then reverses its direction. The solstice is commonly referred to as the day the Sun turns around.
In the past, I thought of the winter solstice as the beginning of winter but with this new revelation, I now see it as marking the moment of our return to more light, warmth, and the regenerative energies of spring. It is an inspiring invitation to rest, reflect, reset, recalibrate, and re-imagine. I encourage you to use this season to embrace the positive power and inevitability of change.
In the months ahead it will be cold and dark in the part of the world where I live. Winter’s regenerative energies will slowly begin to move and redirect nature from an inward focus reflected in the barren trees to an outward expression of sprouting leaves. And we would never know by looking at winter’s leafless trees that their energy is stirring so potently, but it is, nevertheless.
It's the same with us.
On the outside we may look bored, tired, or uninspired but on the inside, there is something great percolating, taking shape, fortifying and moving us toward the spring and the birth of something new. It’s no wonder that many cultures around the world hold feasts and celebrate holidays around the December solstice. We are on a personal and collective inner journey and our path forward is being lighted more and more with each passing day until the next transformational season begins.
What energy, visions, new ideas and goals are stirring within you as we enter the winter solstice?
What would you like to change or reset as we begin the transformative journey toward the next season?
What do you need to be illuminated or viewed in a new light?
Remember, if the Sun can turn around, surely, we can change our course too! Whatever energy is present for you this holiday season I hope that it flows abundantly and brings more love, joy, and happiness to you and those dear to your heart. I look forward to connecting with you in the new year.