For most people, winter begins sometime around Thanksgiving when we start planning for the winter holidays and wrapping ourselves in winter clothing. But the actual start of winter doesn’t come until about a month later when the shortest day of the calendar year finally comes around. That day is upon us. December 22 marks the 2007 winter solstice.
So what do you do if you want to celebrate the onset of winter? Chances are that you’re doing something celebratory. There are a number of different December holidays that people celebrate-including Christmas–which are historically believed to be associated with the celebration of winter solstice (see here). Some people also engage in more active winter solstice celebrations like the winter ritualizing of their homes.
Perhaps you’re not interested in rituals and formal celebrations but would still like to do something to note that the beginning of winter is finally here. Lighting candles tonight in your home is one simple way to celebrate the winter. This recognizes the fact that there’s very little natural sunlight today and also pays heed to the fact that winter requires you to warm your home. Make yourself a hot toddy or hot chocolate and spend a few moments reflecting on the season. This bit of peacefulness can bring a sense of winter calm to your hectic holidays.
