“Although the night is long, there is a light that never goes out.”
–Sage Goddess
For centuries humankind has celebrated winter solstice with rituals. Stories of herbs and trees transforming into fairies and mythical kings recount the return of the light. Gathered around the yuletide are traditions that honor the spirits of the home and land. “In Italy the ancestral spirits who protect the crossroads also guard the family and live in the hearths where children hang brightly colored stockings to be filled by La Befana. Her name literally means ‘epiphany’, the original meaning of which is ‘manifestation or sudden appearance of a divine or supernatural being’ or ‘sudden understanding as to the nature of something.’ (Circle of the Sacred Muse).” The same ‘sudden understanding’ is observed as a ‘sudden awakening’ in Tantric Buddhist Feng Shui. So perhaps there is a universal truth, a knowing, that transcends time and location where honoring the seasons and performing rituals invoke the blessings of Heaven and Earth.
Simple rituals to welcome winter
Adorning your home summons the blessings that accompany the solstice. Red and green or silver and gold candles along the window ledge lure the returning sun. Boughs of evergreen draped inside represent rebirth with pine symbolizing healing and joy. Holly offers protection from evil influences that roam during winter. Mistletoe above the headboard promotes fertility and abundance. Frankincense when lit purifies and accelerates spiritual growth.
Release and let yourself rise
A new year is approaching. Relinquishing habits and beliefs will help you tap your unlimited potential. Write out what you wish to give up with a new black pen. On the night of the winter solstice light a candle. Add some orange essential oil or burn orange peel on a plate. Silently read the list and thank each entry, then light the paper, watch it flicker and feel the epiphany lift your heart.
Ritual cleaning
Cleaning can be an invocation to create a fresh start. Wash your floors and countertops with rosemary and sage essential oil diluted in water. Move 27 items to generate new luck. Replace the sheets on your bed and add a lavender sachet under the pillow.
Reflect on what brightens your light
Kindness, compassion, mindfulness, charity and camaraderie come to mind. What words and what daily rituals brighten your heart? The year ahead will wax and wane. Begin a regular practice at this peak time will aid you in any shift that eclipses your light.
Replenish your body
Winter can be harsh on the liver and kidneys. Preparing root vegetables like beets, parsnips, sweet potatoes, celeriac, carrots and turnips in warming soups remind us that when circumstances uproot our stability we can look to Mother Earth to ground us. Evergreens like kale and spinach represent longevity and initiate something new.
Repair a heart, pay it forward
The season is a reminder of the good fortune that surrounds us but for some it is filled with suffering and scarcity. If you want to make a positive difference donate food, volunteer your time or perform good deeds. Your efforts may remove the humiliation of those who experience less fortunate circumstances and help them see compassion exists in the world.
“May you find peace in the promise of the solstice night and may your days be abundantly blessed.”
Have you decided this will be your year? “Boldness has genius”… start with one hour of Feng Shui A La Carte. Think of it as a fairy godmother for your house.
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