Why Do We Celebrate Winter Solstice – And What Meaning Does It Hold

“This week will mark a special day in many calendars around the world – the winter solstice.

What is the winter solstice?

The winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere – December 21 or 22, depending on where you are in the world.

So, sunrises will start getting earlier and sunsets will start getting later. Curiously, in astronomical terms, the winter solstice is the start of winter too, and so becomes a time for renewal.

The phenomenon happens because of the tilt of the Earth’s axis, which gives us the four seasons.

What does it have to do with Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is a landmark near Salisbury and arguably one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in Europe.

What we do know though is that it is connected to the sun.

The stone monument actually aligns perfectly to the sun’s positioning on both the winter and summer solstice, allowing the light to shine between the rocks on these two days of the year.

So on the shortest day of the year, the sun sets through the central pillar – and the biggest stones of all surround this one, suggesting this was the most important day in our ancestors’ calendar.

So, why is the solstice celebrated?

Themes from around the world suggest the solstice is linked to rebirth, renewal and giving thanks, as well as a sign that light conquers darkness.

As it is the first official day of winter, it can be described as the start of “wintering”, a time when we need to restore.

As Katherine May, author of Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times, said: “Wintering… is the courage to stare down the worst parts of our experience and to commit to healing them the best we can.”

Read the full article on the Huffington Post

✨Takeaway: Depending on your location, the winter solstice takes place on either December 21 or 22nd. It indicates the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. Around the world, different cultures celebrate it and give it their own meaning. But, it is often linked to renewal and giving thanks!

✨Reflection: What is something you were thankful for this year?

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