Today, December 21st, is the shortest day of the year and Winter Solstice. From here, days will begin to get longer. I like to see the increasing length of our days as promise and opportunity. As we verge on the beginning of a New Year, we receive more light, more abundance, and more clarity, as darkness slowly starts to fade.

To the Native people, Winter Solstice is the way to celebrate nature’s cycles through light returning. Enjoy the evening by candles or other festive lights and do things that connect you more with those around you or with yourself such as reading, journaling, or playing a game.

This year, Solstice occurs on December 21st at 10:48 p.m. CST. It occurs when the sun reaches its farthest southward point for the year, giving the Northern Hemisphere its shortest day and longest night. If possible, celebrate the Solstice at its exact moment.

Imagine more light and possibility coming into your life. Breathe deeply, uniting your body and mind to the earth and its natural rhythms as we move toward a New Year.

Take time to meditate on your body’s natural rhythms and those of the world around you in this moment. Try this short guided meditation I wrote for celebrating Winter Solstice to tune into the gradual return of more light.

In Light & Love,

Courtney Amber

Writing Prompt: In many cultures, the sun is a sign of creation rising. Take a few moments to journal as the sun rises after the darkest day of the year, during the beautiful balanced hour between dawn and day. Let the words flow. Try not to think too much–just keep pen to paper and feel. Tap into the light within you, that deep center of intuition, and draw out an intention for your own creative prowess in the coming year.