Winter Solstice

Billions of years ago, something cataclysmic happened to our precious little planet that changed it forever. The impact that was so violent and substantial that it shifted the Earth’s rotational axis to where it is today…23.5 degrees. That tilt is responsible for pretty much everything we experience in terms of seasons and weather and all sorts of other things we take for granted. If it hadn’t been for that impact, today would not be the shortest day of the year. Officially it’s called the Winter Solstice…Yule.
If you’re like me, you know that seasonal affective disorder is a real thing. I’ve long struggled with depression and anxiety, and during this time of year, nature doesn’t help very much. Studies have shown that sunlight and vitamin D are essential to regulating mood and fighting depression/anxiety in our bodies. We are a bit like plants with consciousness. The less sunlight we get, the more we wither inside and out. Combine the lack of sunlight with the already difficult emotional associations of the holiday season, and you have a recipe for something less than a holly jolly Christmas for lots of people.
The beautiful thing about the Winter Solstice is the promise it brings of more Sunlight each and every day from here ‘till the longest day of the year. Every year we turn that corner. Every year things begin to brighten. Every year green returns, flower buds and birds and bees do their thing…and life comes roaring back from its dormant slumber. There’s a deep magic about this rhythm…the slow drum beat of life and death and rebirth. It’s in our blood and is part of the background of our combined consciousness. It’s a part of who we are, no matter what your religious or spiritual persuasion.
As we begin to move toward the sun this season, my wish for you comes from that common human experience. Even if you've experienced a traumatic impact that has set your world off kilter, take heart in the coming days of ever-increasing light. After all, we couldn't know the light were it not for the dark womb of winter. May you know brighter mental and emotional places. May you smile at the gathering of friends and family, and may you sense the flame of life returning to your innermost parts. Merry Christmas.