As the countdown to Christmas begins and the holiday rush to complete preparations is at its peak, I am grateful for an event that is perhaps overlooked by many, or at best, given a slight nod: the Winter Solstice. December 21 marks the Winter Solstice, occuring exactly when the Earth's axial tilt is farthest away from the sun, bringing the shortest day and the longest night of the year.

In ancient times, dark and dreary December was thought of as the most dreaded time of year because the lack of heat and limited food supply could be disastrous. Thus, to many people the promise of lighter days after the Winter Solstice was cause to celebrate and acknowledge that nature's cycle was continuing.

The Winter Solstice has influenced the lives of many people over the centuries, particularly through art, literature, mythology and religion. While interpretation of the event has varied, most cultures have held a recognition of rebirth, involving holidays, festivals, gatherings, rituals or other celebrations around that time.

Cultural winter therapies have evolved as traditions which include decorating with evergreens, adding lights to outdoor trees, using fire pits or fireplaces, feasting and gathering with friends and family. These activities create a festive mood that may help to counter complaints of increased moodiness, tiredness, malaise and inactivity due to the lack of sunlight, (officially recognized as SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder) and the stresses of the holidays.

I love the idea of participating in a midwinter festival that has been celebrated for centuries. It provides an opportunity to pause during this sometimes frenzied time to reflect on the beauty of the season and reconsider what is truly meaningful.

                               Hinda