Winter Solstice is so much more than the shortest day of the year. It brings with it cold, little sunlight and is one of the oldest celebrations traditionally known as Yule, Midwinter and Jól. The Solstice marks the point when the days from getting shorter and shorter, will start growing longer again, Yay!
Even in the middle of the Christmas craze, running to the shops, dinners and trying to fit everyone in our schedules we have to remember that winter was traditionally a time for reflection and introspection. As its the longest night of the year its a great time for cocooning, taking time for ourselves and prepare for the new year ahead of us.
There are many great things you could do to make Winter Solstice special this year and most of them are just simple actions that you can take along with you for the rest of the winter.
In the Morning: Stay warm and start with a smile
Take your time in the morning. When you wake up, don’t jump directly out of bed, but just take a few minutes to stretch. Before standing up make sure to put a pair of wool socks over your toes, it will maintain the warmth of your feet and keep it for the rest of the day. Smile, this day might be the darkest of the year, but that’s no reason to be grumpy.
During the Day: Enjoy both indoors and outdoors
Going outside in the Winter might be hard considering the cold, but just cover yourself well, use gloves, hats, scarves, take your favorite InconnuLab backpack go out for a walk. It doesn’t have to be long, go to the nearest park or forest (if you are lucky enough to live nearby one) and observe the nature around you, the naked branches of the trees, the winter sky and the cold air. You can also meet up with a friend and enjoy a coffee or tea together.
Inside the house do things with and for yourself. Take some time to read your favorite book or a magazine or watch a film. Make a cup of hot chocolate and light up the Christmas tree. DIY some of the Christmas gifts on your list, people appreciate how unique handmade gifts are and the effort behind them. Fill your home with beautiful smells, bake some cookies or a cake, have a long bath or shower using your favorite shampoo, make a stove simmer or light incense.
During the night: Be together
Winter is a period were staying with others can be as warming as a cup of mulled wine. Take time to enjoy the moments you spend with people around you, share a dinner, play board games and speak about your plans for the coming year. If you are too exhausted to meet with friends write a letter or card to a friend or relative and use it as a time to reflect on the year that is coming to an end now.
Enjoy the Winter Solstice!
