As the Earth tilts, the calendar turns, and suddenly here we are again at that familiar threshold between the year that has been and a new year about to unfold.
Maybe you’re snuggled in winter layers or enjoying long summer days on the other side of the world, something in you knows: this moment matters.
People have celebrated this time forever, with candles, feasts, prayers, and stories. And while there’s a lot of beauty and generosity in the air, there’s also a fair amount of exhaustion, and “how did we get here that fast?”
Meanwhile, Nature quietly continues to do her thing, unphased by our scurrying and worrying.
One of my favorite things about this season is that, as of today, the light is returning. You’ll barely notice at first. It sneaks back in. Just an extra minute here, a subtle shift there.
My mother told me that in France, they have a saying: "À la Saint-Luc, le jour croît d'un pas de coq, et à la Sainte-Luce, d'un saut de puce…" Which basically means after the solstice, the sunlight grows like the steps of a rooter at first but then gallops like a mare.
It’s almost like Nature is saying, Relax. This is going to take a while.
That’s part of the invitation right now.
This is a wonderful time for a personal year in review—not the kind that involves charts, goals, or self-improvement plans (yuck!!), but the kind that feels more like sitting by the fire with a warm drink and sharing deeply with yourself.
Light a candle. Make it official. Give yourself more than 3 minutes for this tiny but mighty moment:
Take a few slow breaths and let yourself arrive. When you loosen your grip, even a little, your inner wisdom perks up. (It’s been waiting patiently.)
Now, gently glance in the rearview mirror:
What was happening in your life a year ago?
What felt big, worrisome, or unresolved then?
And here’s the surprising part– how did some of those things change without you forcing them to?
Notice what you navigated this year. What you learned the long way. What you’re proud of, even if it doesn’t look impressive on paper.
Then, bring your attention to now.
What’s working?
What feels more settled, more honest, more aligned?
What small comfort, connection, or joy would past-you be thrilled to know exists today?
Finally, peek ahead—but without pressure.
What goodness would you like to take into the year ahead? Not a goal, but what have you gleaned that you can take to feed your body, your heart, your days?
As you read your words, notice what happens inside you.
Maybe offer yourself a smile. Or a pat on the back. Or a very well-earned hug.
You are not who you were a year ago, and that’s something to own!
Take a moment to watch the sun rise or set: Nature knows how to bring light back gently, and right on time.
May this season meet you with ease,
and may you notice the light returning,
both outside and within.
The Solstice in Nature: A Time of Renewal
The solstice, the longest day of the year, is a moment when Nature invites us to pause and notice the subtle shifts in the world around us. It's a time to slow down, breathe deeply, and tune into the rhythms of the earth.
The solstice shrouds the earth in darkness with the promise that more light is coming. It is a powerful day that many celebrate for the energy and hope it brings.
The Rhythm of the Seasons
Nature's cycles remind us that every ending brings a new beginning. The solstice marks a turning point, a moment when the earth's energy shifts and the light begins to return. This shift is a reminder that change is constant, and that even in the darkest moments, there is always the promise of renewal.
Winter is a time when Nature feels like it takes a pause, it gets a complete reset. The world is covered in a comforting blanket of snow, glistening in the lights of our surroundings.
In order to continue to grow and flourish every year, Nature needs to shed the old from the year, to embrace what it will become the next year. Nature isn’t afraid to be completely reset because it knows that the spring will make it beautiful again.
Key Aspects of the Solstice:
Threshold Moment: A time of transition, when the old makes way for the new.
Balance and Harmony: A reminder of the interplay between light and darkness, and the importance of finding balance in our own lives.
Renewal and Rebirth: A time for reflection, release, and renewal, as the earth begins to stir and new life starts to emerge.
Introspection and Reflection: A moment to look inward, to examine our thoughts, emotions, and patterns, and to release what no longer serves us.
Connection to Nature: A reminder of our place in the natural world and the importance of living in harmony with the earth.
Use the values when creating your own solstice ritual this year.
The Wisdom of Nature
Nature has beautiful wisdom for every season. Nature's wisdom during the solstice teaches us to trust in the cycles of life, to let go of what no longer serves us, and to welcome the new with open hearts.
The solstice invites us to cultivate a sense of awareness, to notice the subtle shifts in our own lives, and to align ourselves with the natural world. It guides you to slow down, become mindful and present, and let the season allow you to rethink your values.
Nature's Lessons for the Solstice
Let go of control: Just as the earth lets go of the old, we can release our attachments and trust in the natural flow of life.
Find stillness: The solstice is a time to pause, to quiet the mind, and to listen to the wisdom of our own hearts.
Nourish your roots: Just as the earth nourishes the roots of the trees, we can nourish our own roots, our own sense of self and purpose.
Hold these solstice lessons in your heart, moving into the new year.
Embracing the Solstice
As we pause to reflect on the year that's been, and to look ahead to the year to come, may we do so with a sense of reverence and respect for the natural world, and with a deep understanding of our own place within it.
This season is hard for many; however, when you remember that the dark makes way for the light, and this season isn’t permanent, you can look to the future with hope and trust.
A Solstice Mantra
"May I welcome the returning light, and may it illuminate my path. May I trust in the cycles of nature, and may I find peace in the knowledge that every ending brings a new beginning. May I breathe in the beauty of this moment, and may it nourish my soul. May I align myself with the wisdom of the earth, and may I find guidance in its ancient rhythms."