The word "solstice" comes from the Latin word "solstitium", which is derived from two words: sol meaning "the sun" and sistere which means "to stand still". During the winter solstice, the axis of the Earth pauses, shifts, and changes direction. This change of direction can serve as a powerful metaphor for us, as we shift the direction and intentions of our own lives in the new year.
This can be a good time for rest, rejuvenation, and reflection on everything you accomplished in the past year. It is a time to gather hope for new beginnings and to ask yourself what kind of person you want to be moving forward.
Many religions and spiritual traditions celebrate the winter solstice because it represents rebirth and the return of light. Yalda, or Shab-e Yalda, is a Persian festival which celebrates the winter solstice in Iran. Yalda represents the victory of light over dark, and it is also the birthday of Mithra the sun god. Yalda is traditionally celebrated with candle lighting, family gatherings, poetry readings, and feasts.
Inti Raymi is an ancient Incan celebration of the winter solstice to honour Inti, the Inca sun god. Today, the tradition is kept through theatrical performances of song and dance as offerings to the Inti god. It is celebrated June instead of December since the winter solstice happens in June for the southern hemisphere.
Regardless of your religious background or beliefs, the winter solstice can be a time for everyone to practice embracing the stillness before a new year. As days start to become longer again, we can look forward to feeling refreshed by the return of the sun and hopeful for a good year ahead.
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