Winter Solstice 2023: An Invitation to Recharge

The longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere is right around the corner this Thursday, December 21st. 

And while many may complain or lament about how the short the days are becoming, this is a natural part of the cycle of life.  A time of contraction, going inwards and accessing more Yin energy to balance the expansion, movement outwards and Yang energy of the lighter months.

The Winter Solstice heralds the beginning of Winter.  A call for us to retreat to our Sanctuary within for inner healing, inner rejuvenation and quality time with our own Self.  To do less and be more. Which is a big challenge for many of us!  Asking anyone to "slow down," to "look within," or to "befriend yourself" can sound like we're asking them to commit a crime.  But even, and perhaps especially, with the busyness of the Holidays, that is the work in front of us when Winter arrives.  

Remember also that the Winter Solstice is a turning point.  For while it's true that it's the longest night of the whole year, on the very next day, nights will begin to shorten and day will begin to lengthen again. So it is a celebration of Hope and the triumph of Light returning back to our lives and back to our world.  And immersing in that hope and promise of warmer, lighter, longer days to come will aid us in the recharging and rejuvenation that is the primary focus during the Winter season.

So while there will be no lack of temptations to overextend and over-busy yourself during the time of the Winter Solstice, really do your best to strive towards balance.  Doing less and being more.  Shifting and modifying boundaries to allow for more rest, more reflection and more quality time to be present with self and others. 

And accepting the invitation to come Home to your Self to recharge, rejuvenate and to reset.