Celebrating Winter Solstice
It’s Winter Solstice in the northern hemisphere today. The shortest day of the year. Today, we will have less than eight hours of sunlight.
Nothing exists without the Sun. All life depends on it. From this day till June 21, we will get 2.5 minutes more sunlight per day.
The Winter Solstice holds significant spiritual meaning across various cultures and traditions. It is a time of deep introspection and renewal.
If you have ever wondered what the fuss is about and what one does or thinks about on Winter Solstice, here are some thoughts for you.
This is a Time for Reflection and Letting Go: The solstice offers a period of deep reflection. It's an opportunity to let go of the old (akin to the shedding of leaves in nature) and to set intentions for personal growth and enlightenment. This is a perfectly timed exercise as we prepare for the new year. We spend so much time in GO GO mode. Today is a great day to slow down, and go inward.
This is a time of Balance and Harmony: The solstice is a point of balance in nature, with the day and night being equal. For most of us, our lives are not balanced. Today is a reminder to strive for equilibrium in all aspects of our life.
A time for Renewal and New Beginnings: Just as the solstice signifies the return of increasing daylight, it also symbolizes new beginnings and fresh starts, encouraging us to embark on new spiritual journeys or practices. If you have been thinking about trying yoga, meditation or another beneficial practice, today is a great day to start!
Connecting with Nature and the Universe: The solstice is a time to connect with the rhythms of nature, recognizing the interdependence of all life. Us humans think we are separate from nature. We think this because, well, we think. We have all this technology. But we are as much a part of nature as everything else. We are subject to nature’s cycles. Fostering this connection can give us a deeper understanding of our place in the universe and the cycle of life and death.
In essence, the Winter Solstice can be a profound time for spiritual growth and enlightenment, offering a moment to pause, reflect, and realign with our spiritual path.
Today, I will be doing a 62 minute Ek Ong Kar (we are all one) chant with my sangha, then a 75 minute kriya (kundalini yoga practice), led by my teacher Kia Miller.
Wishing you a great day!