The Return of Light ~ Winter Solstice & Ritual

The Winter Solstice is a sacred time of reflection and renewal. It marks the longest night of the year and the beginning of the sun’s slow return, a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and light. In astrology, we follow the sun—its path, its light, and its influence on our lives. This time of year, carries a profound symbolism of endings and beginnings, a gateway for new intentions, resolutions, and transformations.

Astrologically, we follow the journey of the sun—the celestial body symbolizing light, vitality, and consciousness—through the zodiac. With the Winter Solstice marking the sun's entry into Capricorn, it invites us to foster new intentions and resolutions as we transition into a new year.

This period of deep introspection and renewal is a sacred opportunity to honor both the light returning to our physical world and the metaphorical light within us. While we welcome the sun's return, we also take a moment to reflect on the year drawing to a close, acknowledging the lessons and growth it brought us.

To align with this transformative energy, I invite you to engage in a meaningful ritual to release the old and welcome in the new. Begin with two pieces of paper. On the first, write down everything you wish to leave behind as the new year dawns: habits, thoughts, relationships, or experiences that no longer serve you. These might include physical ailments, outdated ways of thinking, or unresolved emotions.

On the second sheet of paper, jot down your intentions and desires for the coming year. Let this list embody all you wish to manifest, infusing it with your hopes and aspirations. Remember, manifestation is a process that unfolds in divine timing—trust that what is written will come to pass according to the universe's perfect plan.

As New Year's Eve approaches before the stroke of midnight, safely burn the list of what you wish to release, symbolically letting go of the past. As for your manifestation list, place it in an envelope with the year of the New Year. Then tuck it away in a place where it might eventually slip from your memory. By allowing the universe to unfold your hopes naturally, you give room for gratitude when you rediscover what initially seemed lost.

To further honor the transition of time, light three tea light candles, representing the past, present, and future. Allow them to burn out on their own, signifying the sacred journey of understanding where you have been, appreciating where you are, and welcoming where you aim to go.

Throughout the years, I've found that rediscovering these manifestation lists often comes with a sense of awe and gratitude. It's a gentle reminder that sometimes the universe's wisdom surpasses our immediate wishes, guiding us towards what truly serves us.

We celebrate not just the physical return of light, but also the illumination of our spirit and consciousness. Join me and the community at Half Moon Yoga on December 21st as we honor the light's return with 108 sun salutations during the Winter Solstice, paying tribute to the sun that guides our astrological journey. Let us gather to embrace this symbolic rebirth, uniting our energies to both honor the darkness and welcome the light.

Let’s step into this sacred time with open hearts, honoring the past and welcoming the light of what’s to come.

Much Love,

Lisa