Winter Solstice is a time of rebirth – It usually occurs on December 21st to the 23rd each year in our Northern Hemisphere and June 20th to the 23rd in the Southern Hemisphere. The actual date is distinguished because it is the shortest day and longest night of the year.
Because Winter Solstice lasts only a moment in time, other terms are often used for the day on which it occurs:
- the longest day of the year or,
- the first day of winter
Astrologically, this moment in time can be precisely determined with recent advances in this area. This year the date and time are Dec. 21, 2011 at 10:30 PM, Arizona time.
Around the world the meaning of Winter Solstice has varied from culture to culture however, most cultures recognized this as a time of rebirth. Around that time there were often:
- rituals or
The spiritual significance of winter solstice is that it is the rebirth of the Sun. A renewed energy can be noticed in all aspects of life. The days become longer and we look forward to spring. However, winter darkness has a positive side. We can recognize and honor the beauty of winter. We can honor the Earth as it prepares to move into a season filled with light.
You may want to honor the darkness as part of the mysteriousness of your God or higher self. You may want to give thanks for the darkness of winter which is the yin to the yang of light. In the seclusion of winter darkness you may want to take time to regenerate your creative energies. You may want to consider where you are in your spiritual transformation. It truly is a time of rebirth!
Celebrating in the Shining Wheeling, drumming, singing and breaking bread is a beautiful way to raise your energy!