As the Winter Solstice approaches, we are reminded of the magic of Yule — a celebration of renewal, reflection, and the promise of brighter days.
On December 21st, the Solstice marks the year’s longest night and shortest day, inviting us to pause, reflect, and prepare for the light and growth ahead. Since Samhain in late October, nature has begun to rest and become still. Yule honours this quiet pause, encouraging us to let go of the past, reflect on lessons learned, and express gratitude for all the positive moments we’ve experienced.
🌲 The Yule Log: A Symbol of Release
No, not the delcious festive treat, although it's origins also stem from the same ancient traditions. These ancient traditions saw the burning of a Yule log as a way to clear away the old and make space for the new - I like to imagine a fire burning away the year’s challenges, making room for a fresh start and dreams for the year ahead.
❄️ Finding Beauty in Stillness
Winter’s quiet invites us to slow down, to connect with the bare trees, frosty landscapes, and hibernation of nature. I love pulling on boots, wooly hat and cosy scarf and heading out for a walk through the woods, standing still you slowly becomne aware of the quiet sounds around you. The gentle creak of branches as they expand and contract in the cold air, the drip of raindrops from leaves, the breeze blowing through the trees, the distant sound of a bird. Just stand and soak in the stillness. .
🌿 Honouring the Season
Simple rituals help us to connect with the season ~ Evergreens like holly and ivy remind us of life and resilience.
I always think the house looks so pretty when decorated with fresh holly and ivy popped behind picture frames, or on table displays. Holly symbolises goodwill and open-heartedness, and ivy encourages self-discovery and growth.
As the wheel of the year turns, Yule reminds us of life’s endless cycles. Life can become pretty hectic at this time of year as we hurtle towards Christmas and all its craziness and we can often get sucked up into a commercial whirl. So take this moment to embrace nature's stillness, release the weight of the old and make space for the new and the promise of brighter days ahead.💫
