By: Daniela Rey & Mallory Riess

The winter season is upon us. It is a time to slow down, turn inward, and reflect on the year that has passed. What better way to welcome this shifting of energy from the fall harvest to the quiet of winter than by celebrating the winter solstice? The winter solstice marks the cosmic reset button, signaling the gradual return of longer days and the promise of brighter horizons. Beyond the astronomical significance, it’s a chance to connect with the rhythm of the seasons and to honor the beauty found in the stillness of winter.

Rituals become our cozy companions—like a familiar melody in the background of our lives. They offer comfort and grounding, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. From sipping herbal tea to embracing the solace of a quiet walk, these rituals become touchstones that guide us through the cold months. Keep in mind – a ritual can but doesn’t need to be a grand affair. Just the simple act of pausing to acknowledge what’s happening—that the days are shorter, and our energy levels might change. If you’d like to infuse a bit more ritual into your life and honor this season of slowing down, here’s some inspiration to help you create your own rituals.

Tea Ceremony

Alone or amongst friends, sit for a tea ceremony. Use whatever herbs you want, or maybe a blend made for the winter season. Share stories, and talk about your experience as the season shifts. Hold the cup in your hands, feel its warmth, and take a deep breath to enjoy the aroma of the herbs. It’s a simple yet profound way to celebrate connection and warmth.

Yin Yoga

Roll out your coziest yoga mat, dim the lights, and allow your body to open up into the gentle stretches of Yin Yoga. In this calming yoga practice, you slow down and hold restorative yoga poses that create space for you to tune into winter’s stillness.

Nature’s Night Lights Hunt

With hot cocoa in hand and layered with your favorite cozy clothes, venture outside and gaze at the winter night sky. Spot constellations and embrace the crisp air—it’s a celestial treasure hunt in your own backyard.

Candlelit Journaling

Set the ambiance with candles, find a cozy spot, and take a moment to journal about your year. What lessons have you learned? What are you grateful for? Take time to reflect on this past year and start to create intentions for the year to come.

Be in the Community

You can create these rituals on your own, but it is often nice to call in the changing of the seasons by connecting with your community. Take the inspiration from these rituals to create your own celebration and call in the winter magic with others.

Here in our local community of Wrightwood at the Love Roots Yoga Shala, Daniela Rey, Herbalist, and Mallory Riess, Yoga Teacher, are hosting an intimate Winter Solstice Yoga & Tea Ceremony on Thursday, December 21st, at 6 pm. They would love for you to join them to enjoy Daniela’s winter herbal tea blend and a Yin Yoga practice to help you connect with the energy of the upcoming winter season. Reserve your spot and register for this event online.