Discover Intriguing Things about the Winter Solstice

 

The Winter Solstice is the term used to describe the exact moment when half of the Earth is tilted farthest away from the sun. In the Northern Hemisphere, it usually happens on December 21 or 22. 

The Winter Solstice has been a symbol to me for the rebirth or reappearance of the sun, inviting hope, creativity, and new beginnings. This change is evident, as each week afterward has more light minutes than the week before.

This year the Winter Solstice occurs on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 10:03 a.m. (EST). Here is an in-depth post about this special day from The Old Farmer's Almanac.

People who live in the Southern Hemisphere, honor the Winter Solstice in June. That’s because the seasons are reversed below the Equator.

Traditional Colors of the Winter

 Solstice are:

Deep green of evergreens, mistletoe, and pine representing life.

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Red and gold of candles, fire, holly berries, and the sun, as a symbol of warmth and light.

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White and silver to signify snow, frost, and the moon

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Why not check out “How to Celebrate the Winter Solstice: 8 Spiritual Ways to Honor the Return of the Light” from Erin Bruce and The Seasonal Soul Blog for ideas and activities related to the Winter Solstice?

Perhaps you'd like to mark the day with a guided meditation. Then see “Winter Solstice 2025: Meditation and Spiritual Meaning” from Nikki Dyer.

Ancient and modern cultures around the world celebrate this day which symbolizes the "death" of darkness and the rebirth of light, with festivals and celebrations to commemorate it.

Tradtional foods are hearty and warming. Things like flavorful soups, stews, and root vegtable dishes are warming and satisfying. Hot apple cider and ginger tea, and baked goods made with ginger and cinnamon are favored too.

 

Festivities acknowledging this time often involve candles, bonfires, feasting (like dumplings in East Asia), and rituals for renewal, with themes of hope and new beginnings. 

Native American tribes celebrate the Winter Solstice as a profound time of renewal, honoring the "New Sun" and the return of light after the year's longest night, with traditions including storytelling, feasting, dancing, and prayers for spring.

Ceremonies signifying rebirth, connection to the Earth, and ancestral guidance are also an important part of this special day. 

Specific events and public gatherings for 2025 will be announced by individual tribes and cultural centers, but generally focus on spiritual reflection and cultural continuity.

Stonehenge (built between 3100 BC and 1500 BC) is an ancient structure that predates Christmas, and illustrates its builders were clearly aware of the Winter Solstice as an astronomical phenomenon. The main axis of this structure aligns with the setting sun of the Winter Solstice, and shines directly into the heart of the stone circle at the correct time and date each year.

This time of year provides us with an opportunity to pause to remember our connection to the natural world and celebrate the change of seasons.

Have you ever thought about the idea of celebrating the Winter Solstice or practiced any of its traditions? Please share in the comments section below.

Would you like to adopt any of the Winter Solstice practices to help you slow down, treasure the moment, and appreciate the gift of being alive right now?

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I'm so glad you came by for a visit to Colors 4 Health. I appreciate your support, and am grateful for you.

No matter what holiday you celebrate, wishing you a beautiful December.

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