Winter Solstice Meditation
Embracing the Light Within
On December 21, the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere marks the point when the Earth's tilt reaches its furthest distance from the sun, and—for many cultures—is a symbolic time of powerful beginnings; a transition from darkness towards light, bringing with it Nature’s reawakening and the possibility fresh starts.
This time is an invitation to journey inward and explore our inner worlds, reflecting on what we may be ready to release. In doing so, we create space for the light of the new year—ready for growth and new beginnings.
This guided Winter Solstice meditation is intended to help you connect with yourself, supported by the comforting warmth of Ayurvedic tea.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
These optional props are intended to enrich your experience:
- A Cup of Tea: choose a warming tea blend, such as a chai or a spiced herbal tea to awaken and soothe your senses.
- Candles: representative of both the light within and the sun’s coming return.
- Blanket or Shawl: enveloping yourself in something cozy creates a comforting feeling of safety.
- Notebook and Pen: for any reflections, intentions, or insights that might come up.
- Essential Oils or Incense: scents like cedar, frankincense, or cinnamon can deepen relaxation by connecting you to winter's grounding energy.
Step 2: Set the Scene
Create a tranquil and inviting space for intentionality:
- Dim the Lights: allow the candles to be the main source of light, inviting the stillness of a winter evening.
- Prepare Your Tea: take time to brew your tea with care and attention. As the tea steeps, imagine warmth filling the room.
- Add Sound: soft music, nature sounds, or (if you prefer) silence create a meditative atmosphere. Choose something that helps you feel calm and connected.
- Arrange Your Seat: lay out your blanket or shawl nearby, sit anywhere that’s comfortable, placing your tea and notebook within reach.
Step 3: The Meditation
Once you’re settled, begin with these gentle, reflective prompts:
- Grounding Breath: close your eyes, take a long, deep breath and exhale slowly. Bring your awareness to the ground below you; to your connection with the earth. Take a few more deep, steady breaths, allowing yourself to fully arrive in the moment.
- Sip with Intention: as you feel the desire, take sips of your tea, letting its warmth spread throughout your body. Imagine the tea as liquid sunshine, filling you with the promise of the returning light.
- Meditate on Darkness and Light: reflect on the qualities of the longest night: the stillness, quiet, and rest it brings. When you’re ready, imagine a spark of light calmly growing within you.
- Set Intentions for the Light's Return: when you feel complete with the last step, open your eyes and take note of any thoughts or intentions that come to you. Ask yourself: what do I want to let go of with the passing year? What do I want to welcome with the return of the sun? What qualities will help me thrive in the coming months? Take this step slowly; don’t rush or force ideas.
- Seal the Ceremony: close your notebook and take any final sips of your tea. Find stillness once last time, rooted in gratitude for the season of darkness and the quiet wisdom it offers.
This Winter Solstice ceremony is a gentle reminder that, even in the quietest, darkest times, we hold the potential for growth and transformation. As you carry these intentions forward, we hope that your new beginning is filled with warmth, light, and abundance.