Winter Solstice: Spiritual Rituals & Navigating Darkness

Spirituality

Dec 15

Why do we spend so much time suppressing the darkness that lives within us? The shadows and parts of self that we have rejected and exiled to a long-lost place within our unconscious mind. Well, I can tell you why; it’s because most folks believe that this darkness, this shadow, is inconvenient. Feeling shame, hurt, pain, judgment, sadness, anger, and loneliness are all too much to bare for some people, so they hide it away. knowing that deep within them lives a dark matter, unable to find the light without the permission of its host; and so it waits to be seen, loved, validated, and heard.

These feelings within us are not easy to address. If they were, everyone would be walking around in a state of wholeness and self-expression that radiates and oozes joy and passion. Instead, folks try to hide from their emotions and desires; their urges, and passions. They reject parts of themselves in hopes of being safe, and secure; rather than expressed, and authentic. However, being “safe” can simply mean, playing small in your life; a false sense of security that never truly keep you anything but down.

We are in darkness, my friends. A dark time of the year, yes; but also a dark night of the soul. I do not know a single person who has been untouched by traumatic events these past few years, and as we come to this beautiful holiday, and the end of the year, there is an energetic potency for healing change, and transformation. We live in a culture that strives for new beginnings, a fresh start, and intentional changes as January 1st approaches. However, most folks strive for something they have been unconsciously resisting, something that a new years resolution, will not resolve. The winter solstice on December 21st is a time to start your intentional work for the new year. allow yourself to sit with the emotions you have neglected; be curious about the “Why”. “Why have you stayed in this toxic relationship?”, “Why do you run from every good opportunity that comes your way?” Why does this person anger/trigger you so much?”. Pay attention to the answers, this my dear one is a personal exploration that leads to an understanding of why you do the things you do, and what you may be ready to release in order to step into a new internal space of being.

This is a beautiful opportunity for you to step into the darkness with questions, that will, without a doubt, lead to answers; and those answers? They will eventually lead to joy. They may at first cause more sadness, or heartache, just know this is normal. So honor yourself and give yourself some time as you uncover what you have hidden in the depths of your mind. Know that the natural cycle of nature is on your side. The 21st is the darkest day of the year, and just after that, we slowly begin to bring in more light, longer days, and warmer weather. This is a time for new inspiration, growth, and healing. Plant your seeds now, so that when spring comes, you are ready to see the blossoming that takes place.

Winter Solstice Rituals & Practices

First and foremost, if you are truly ready to release something, you will; however, if you are not fully ready, but want to loosen the hold on something or someone, then this practice will do that for you as well. The important thing to note is that this is your journey, and these things you are ready to release have been with you for a while, so honor yourself as you release them; give yourself time and know that every step you make towards your wholeness, is a step that is divine by nature; no matter how big or small.

Fire Ceremony for Release & Rebirth

Because this is such a dark time, we choose to honor the darkness within us. Take time to acknowledge the endings and new beginnings that are happening in your life right now; allow yourself to clear up space, and make room for the beauty that comes in the following year.

To this ceremony, bring an offering that symbolizes your past. It can be a picture, an item, or a written letter (my favorite). Once you have t, set your intention; visualize yourself cutting cords, dissolving attachments, and releasing what no longer serves you. Then, send gratitude for what you are releasing (every hardship has lessons, and opportunities, discover what this release has taught you, and what it will bring you).

When you are ready, place your offering into the fire, take in a deep breath, and exhale out… blowing air into the fire as release, that which no longer serves you.

End the ritual by placing your hand on your heart, and expressing something you are grateful for. You can do this with your voice, your body, or your breath. These are amazing ways to move energy through the body.

Honor The Earth & Her Bounty

Bringing mother nature into your home is always a beautiful way to connect with mother earth, so this time of year it is traditional to place garlands of tree branches around your home; hang plants like holly and ivy over doorways, and decorate with twigs and herbs such as bayberry, milk thistle, and mistletoe.

My favorite thing to do is to go out into the woods and find fallen offerings to bring home. I always thank the earth for sharing her beauty with me, and with these offerings, I create garlands, add to my altar and create insense.

This is a simple ritual that connects you to the living earth; honoring her bounty, and also rebirthing that which has fallen from the trees, creating a natural cycle of death and rebirth.

Another step you can add to this ritual is singing and speaking to the trees and nearby plants. This connection to oneness and nature is all around us, and yet in a culture full of hustling and constant distraction, we often forget to connect with the outdoors. It has long been a tradition among pagans to commune with the natural world around us. And so, I too choose to honor Gaia and connect with her grounding energy as I move through darkness and navigate my shadow.

Water Ceremony For Dissolving Attachments

I got this one from a friend of mine who is an INCREDIBLE astrologer, Dianna Fontes. The practice involves a bowl or jar of water. I personally like to use moon water or spring water, but for most that will require planning ahead, so if you are a busy person with a chaotic life (because it’s the fucking holidays and everyone is busy) and are reading this at the last minute; use the water from your faucet, it’s totally fine. Next, you will want a pen and paper, a candle, and your intentions.

So the first part of this, grab your water and place it aside. Then, write something. It can be a journal entry, a letter to someone you are letting go of, a letter to your past self, or anything or anyone that you are wanting to detach from.

Just a simple reminder, this is for dissolving an unhealthy attachment to something. So this could be a person, a thing, a habit, a belief, etc.

Once you have your letter, grab your container of water, place it in front of you, and with your hands positioned over the water, read your letter. allowing your words and energy to be placed into the water; as it contains your attachments and holds for you, that which you want to dissolve.

Once you are done, allow the water to sit out under to moon’s light. This will bring the power of the moon and her ability to connect with your emotions, into this ritual as she supports this practice.

In the morning, pour the water back into the earth, so that it may be composted into new, vitalizing energy and send gratitude to Gaia for her assistance.

It’s Time To Rest, Recuperate, & Nurture Our Bodies

Remember, when we fear our own shadow, we cut ourselves off from accessing our whole selves. We become wounded and sad; surviving, rather than thriving. Darkness can be one of the greatest catalysts for personal growth and transformation. So honor your feelings, without judgment, and find space to explore every part of yourself. You can do this on your own or with a practitioner, all you need is a curious mind, and a willing heart. Take the time to rest, and hibernate in a way that honors the emotions that are coming up (or the ones you have been shoving down).

Now, I realize most don’t have the luxury of just hibernating over winter months, because the ability to truly rest and nourish our bodies the way we need to, is a privilege that many folks don’t have. So ask yourself this: How can you lean further into rest? Is it making fewer plans with friends/family? Going to bed sooner? Waking up later? Taking note of what needs to be prioritized, and what can be put off for a few months when things feel less heavy? Is there flexibility in your schedule to find more pleasure? Can you spend 10 minutes a day connecting to your body and being curious about your emotions? Simple practices make a big difference, so notice where you can let go, and invite in more time for you, and where you are right now. Because Goddess knows that simply existing on this earth is challenging right now; however, you always have a choice in how you spend your time and energy.

Happy solstice loved ones!