Happy winter solstice!
I used to reject the dark and cold, the start of winter. I found it depressing. But the past couple of years, especially this year, I'm learning to embrace it and even welcome the darkness as we move towards the light. I'm learning that the dark and cold are important because we need to slow down and rest. We need this time of hibernation in order to bring forth our light and growth as the sun returns.
Gathering at my friend's beautiful, warm, cozy home with a small group of women to celebrate the winter solstice was a balm for my soul.
"It's no surprise many cultures and religions celebrate a holiday - whether it be Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or pagan festivals - that coincides with the return of longer days.
Ancient peoples whose survival depended on a precise knowledge of seasonal cycles marked this first day of winter with elaborate ceremonies and celebrations. Spiritually, these celebrations symbolize the opportunity for renewal, a shedding of bad habits and negative feelings and an embracing of hope amid darkness as the days once again begin to grow longer.
Many of the ancient symbols and ceremonies of the winter solstice live on today or have been incorporated into newer traditions."
(Winter Solstice - CNN Travel)
Many of the ancient symbols and ceremonies of the winter solstice live on today or have been incorporated into newer traditions."
(Winter Solstice - CNN Travel)
We lit candles, said a prayer; an elder did a lovely reading about the solstice. We journaled about what what no longer served us that we needed to release, and the positive things we wanted to bring in.
We then went outside one by one, to walk around the fire and reflect upon what we wrote...
It was peaceful and magical by the light of the full moon.
We then gathered in a group around the fire and did a round of laughter yoga, which triggered real laughter to the point where we were positive the neighbors thought we were crazy.
We then gathered in a group around the fire and did a round of laughter yoga, which triggered real laughter to the point where we were positive the neighbors thought we were crazy.
Wishing you a holiday season filled with joyful moments, many blessings, laughter, peace and release...no matter how you choose to celebrate.
(Display inside the store, Vintage Art & Findings)
I'm grateful for all of you.
xoxo
Sounds like a lovely, healing gathering. I love the pictures. Have a very Merry Christmas and peace and love in the new year. :-)
ReplyDeleteSounds like a wonderful way to start winter! Merry Christmas.
ReplyDeleteI love this gathering. I'm so glad you have these women in your life. Happy Winter's Solstice! Here's to each day getting a little lighter. :)
ReplyDeleteThis sounds SO awesome! Have a Merry Christmas!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a really wonderful and meaningful celebration of the solstice. Wishing you happy holidays.
ReplyDeleteIt makes me so happy, Melanie, to know that you had this special time with these lovely women friends. I remember in years past when you've written about your evenings with this group of friends and it always seems to bless you. And what you've written does resonate with me. There is much healing in choosing to release certain things that weigh us down. Best to you, always, Melanie!
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely practice, and how lucky you are to have friends who can appreciate this unique celebration! It sounds absolutely delightful.
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