Practice & Winter Solstice

We are nearing the Winter Solstice — daylight and nightlight are dancing.

The last stalwart figs and apples cling to my trees, and most flowers have closed and quieted. Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere is the shortest day and the longest night, and even though we are often greeted by sunny skies and warm weather in California at present it may seem very dark. We are again under stay at home orders and COVID-19 is spreading at an unprecedented rate. We are asked to stay home and keep not just ourselves safe but our friends, family and neighbors safe. But amidst the dark and quiet, in what looks like death and rest there is always life brimming. The fountain in my backyard is a respite for songbirds and each morning I wake to an open air aviary alive with song and dance. There are new shoots from my flower bulbs, my lavender is blooming and the bees are busy supporting life. My herbs are setting new leaves, and my vegetable garden is happily growing a variety of lettuces, spinaches and cruciferous vegetables. It’s also a time to be playful — look for your shadow. It'll be the longest noontime shadow of the year.

Photo courtesy of Karin Welss

Winter Solstice, when the sun stands still, is an opportunity to reflect and celebrate rebirth. Traditionally a celebration of the sun’s rebirth I invite you to take time on the 21st to be still, reflect, and celebrate whatever it is that feels important to you in this moment, whatever it is that makes your heart soar and sing. It doesn’t have to be complicated, it could be the smile on your child’s face or an unexpected thank-you. For me it is many things and my list could go on but here are a few.

• Smells and sounds of woods

• Songbird cacophony by my water fountain

• Tantalizing aroma of freshly baked cookies and freshly brewed coffee

• Shared times with friends and family; walks, treats, smiles, and past hugs

• Healthy body to enjoy yoga, hiking and gardening

• Opportunity to give, support, and be present with others

Would I take the opportunity to pause and notice if I was bustling about with tasks?

Perhaps.

Would I take the opportunity to reflect and celebrate if I was bustling about with tasks? Maybe.

Would I take the opportunity to think about rebirth if I was bustling about with tasks?

Nope.

This Winter Solstice I encourage you to dance with daylight and nightlight. What are you celebrating? What makes your heart soar and sing? Did you find your shadow? I would love for you to share with me so feel free to post a comment or send me an email.