Winter Solstice 2011

On December 21^st we celebrate the Winter Solstice – the longest might, and shortest day, of the year. Soon we will begin to see our days lengthening – time seems to really have flown by! A definite marker for the cycle of the seasons, and the cycle of life. To understand how life has changed, think about how the solstice is viewed. In ancient times it was viewed from the point of view of the earth, and it was honored through the building of markers such as Stonehenge. Today, with our technology, we are viewing the solstice from the point of view of outer space.

 

The most evident sign of the winter solstice is the length of the day – the beginning of longer days, and shorter nights. Winter solstice is celebrated in the Pagan tradition as the time the return of the sun, and a time of rebirth. It represents the beginning of the new year.

 

Before I present a new solstice spread for 2011, I would like to share an article that I wrote for Tarot Elements about Winter Solstice 2010 – http://www.tarotelements.com/personal-development/a-time-for-reflection/ .

 

Winter Solstice is a time of transition from the old year to the new year. Picture the ubiquitous images of Father Time, representing the old year, retreating, and the baby in diapers representing the new year coming in. Let’s try and combine the energy of cycles with the energy of honoring our connection with Mother Earth.

 

11 12 13

8 9 10 1 2 3 4

5 6 7

1. Where I am right now.

2. How do I relate to Mother Earth?

3. What do I need to know about my relationship with Mother Earth?

4. How can I best honor Mother Earth?

5. What were my challenges in 2011?

6. Where were my opportunities in 2011?

7. Who/what supported me in 2011?

8. What do I need to release from 2011?

9. What do I need to honor from 2011?

10. What do I need to carry into 2012?

11. What am I birthing in 2012?

12. How can I best support my path in 2012?

13. How can I best honor myself?

Have fun with this! May this Winter Solstice bring you peace, joy, and hope for a healing, productive New Year!

© December 2011 Bonnie Cehovet