WINTER SOLSTICE
Winter solstice, also called YULE, is the time of year which honours the rising winter sun and the return of light to our dark winter days. It is the longest night, shortest day of the year, and in 2018 this date will be June 21st. Winter solstice signifies the earths tilt back toward the sun, and the gradual increase of daylight until we meet summer solstice in the middle of summer. Gradually the earth starts to awaken from her slumber, and nature slowly comes alive. It is a time, honoured over centuries, to delve deep inside yourself in the space of night, to enjoy emotional and physical nourishment, and to soak up the magnetic high this time offers as a way to draw forth what you most desire and set your best intentions for the future.
The perfect way to spend your winter solstice is to immerse yourself in a yin yoga practice; slow, compassionate, nurturing and warm, taking time to reside in stillness and create space. It is also a great time to snuggle up in the warm, indulge in a long hot bath, or perhaps enjoy a candle meditation honouring warmth, light & energy, or some quiet time exploring your heart space, yoga’s symbolic house of the sun. Whatever you choose to do over winter solstice make sure you take the time to become one with yourself and appreciate all that you are, and contemplate the meaning of this time of year by honouring the wonderful gifts of our sun.
“You are what your deepest desire is.
As your desire is, so is your intention.
As your intention is, so is your will.
As your will is, so is your deed.
As your deed is, so is your destiny.”
–The Upanishads