Earlier on, as I lay soaking in the outdoor bathtub, looking up at the night sky. I began to think about solstice, which me and my girls will be celebrating tomorrow. As this cycle of the sun ends. Traditionally on solstice, using wheels, of any shape or form, was not allowed. In honour of the great wheel of life paused. Inviting everyone to travel within and really reflect on what you have been through this most recent cycle of the sun..
Pausing to wait for the light to return, after this our longest night. So it seemed quite apt that I would be doing my reflecting, in the bath, where it literally did feel like time did stop. It felt so good to be outside, with only the surrounds of nature surrounding me.
In Ireland, New Grange, a stunning Megalithic site, was built to honor this celebration. When the dawn sun pierces through a long corridor, to illuminate the inner chamber. This only happens on Solstice.
Since Samhain, the earth has retreated more into herself, which is exactly what we should be doing. The sun being our guide, as it sets earlier and earlier. Until we come to this moment which is all about rebirth.
Very little growth has been evident in nature, on the surface that is. But deep within, the roots have seen tremendous growth. This is our opportunity also, to expand within, to deepen our own roots. And just like nature we have slowed down and conserved our energy, awaiting a new energy and warmth to arrive. To help us move forward into the next cycle of life.
( Solstice Celebration of the past, with me on the drum.)
I have really felt my body slow down, as I found myself needing to also spend more time at home. Such an intense tiredness, would come over me, if I push myself too hard and go against, what my whole being needs in order to thrive. This last year I have continued , to listen to my body and deepen my understanding of the way in which it communicates with me.
We can easily miss subtle signs, especially when there are so many things distracting us and we are being bombarded with them right now. This is the time of the year to prioritize that journey inwards. To make time, to sit with yourself and really feel, how your body is. To listen to the thoughts within your mind. Which can be the hardest thing to do.
Now is the time to really take note of how you speak to yourself and make whatever changes you need to, so that you are thriving in life. So that you bring the wisdom that you connected with within, into the outer world. Now is the time, to birth your dreams.
Tomorrow I will awake and exchange gifts with my girls. Then after breakfast, we will make bird seed decorations for some of the trees that are on the land, where we live. This is our opportunity to give something back, to express our gratitude. An opportunity to take back those traditions, that connect us more with the Earth.
Wishing you all a wonderful Solstice.
