Honouring the winter solstice

Winter is a time where everything lies dormant, the cold and the dark inviting rest and reflection.  As the days become shorter, this year more than ever I have been aware of the blanket of darkness enveloping my world.  

True to the season and as the solstice comes closer, I note I have been disinclined to venture far from the snug of home.  Instead, journalling in candle light with gentle music in the background, and mug of tea nearby have been regular features.

Perceivably to the eye the movement of the sun stands still

The winter solstice is when perceivably to the eye the movement of the sun stands still, and we experience the least daylight hours of any day in the year.  For us in the Southern Hemisphere, this year the solstice will occur Thursday June 22^nd, 12:57AM AEST.  On the days either side of the solstice from June 21 - 23, it is as if the axis of the earth pauses, before it shifts back to the opposite direction and we begin the gradual journey towards the sun.

Culturally many of us learn early, that darkness is to be feared

Culturally many of us learn early, that darkness is to be feared.  But it is in our coming to know that which is typically hidden in the shadows of our subconscious and allowing ourselves to feel all that arises, including the darkness, that we lay the groundwork for growth. 

When we take time to slow down and listen deeply into the quiet of the long night, at first there may be nothing but a faint a rustle or glimmer in the distance. Let this be enough.  There is no rush or demand here.  As you can, commit to remaining curious and open to whatever presents.  The more we can maintain this position of welcoming to our own self-experience, know that in time the sounds will become more audible and the shapes more visible.

To mark the end of the earth’s journey away from the sun

To mark the end of the earth’s journey away from the sun as it pauses before shifting to the opposite direction, you may be inclined to acknowledge the completion of this cycle in ceremony or ritual.  Elements could include:

• Honouring what has been and what you wish to let go of
• Making way for the new growth in the season ahead
• Calling in the supports you want around you, during this period of transition

However, you choose to do this, I invite you to bring into your awareness that you are not alone, in fact you are amongst many, honouring this moment of stillness.

For me, I plan to be standing around a fire

For me, I plan to be standing around a fire and under the cover of the night sky, placing strips of paper with reflections of that which is now complete for me, into the flames. Close others will be present and we will be witness to one another, just as I am witness to myself. Together while letting go, we will call in supportive and guiding energy as we prepare to embark upon this journey towards the sun.

I wish for you a time to stand still

In the coming days, I wish for you time to stand still and listen in to the quiet of the dark of night for yourself.

It is through connection with self, with other and the earth we heal.

Love Sarah xx