21/12/2025
At 3.15pm this afternoon it will be the winter solstice marking the shortest day of the year and the start of astronomical winter.
Meteorological winter started on 1 December but the solstice is this specific moment, from which point forward the days will start to get longer and we experience more daylight.
What is the winter solstice and what happens during it?
The word 'solstice' comes from the Latin sol, meaning 'sun', and sistere - to 'stand still'.
The winter solstice is the moment the Sun appears to stand still, directly above the Tropic of Capricorn, the most southerly latitude it reaches annually.
This gives the southern hemisphere its longest day of the year with the Sun reaching its highest angle in the sky.
It leaves the northern hemisphere with less sunlight and consequently its maximum amount of darkness.
We have solstices because the Earth is tilted on its axis by 23.5 degrees, which affects which part of the planet's surface the sun is directly overhead at any given time.
Traditionally, Winter Solstice rituals focus on welcoming the returning light, releasing the old year, and setting intentions for renewal, often involving lighting candles for hope/intention; cleansing practices (sage/herbs); reflection (journaling, meditation); creating altars or focal points with evergreens/crystals; feasting/gathering to honor rebirth and the cycle of nature, with traditions like the Persian Shab-e-Yalda celebrating the triumph of light.
Core Rituals & Practices
Light candles to symbolize the sun's return, reflecting on the past year as you extinguish one and setting hopes as you light another for the new cycle.
Cleansing & Purification: Burn sage, cedar, or bay leaves to clear space and carry prayers, representing a fresh start.
Decorate a focal place with evergreens, pine cones, crystals (like quartz), and sun symbols to honor the rebirth of light.
Journaling & Reflection: Write about the past year's lessons, create gratitude lists, and plan intentions for the coming months.
Solstice Walk: Take a quiet walk to connect with nature and reflect on the year's cycles.
Intentional Nightcap: Create a special drink (like hot chocolate) for a personal, reflective moment.
Vision Board: Make a digital or physical board to manifest goals for the new solar year.
Winter Solstice blessings everyone from my home to yours