The Winter Solstice
Dec 21st, 2009 by Hazel
As you may or may not know, today is the Winter Solstice for those residing in the Northern Hemisphere. Though many believe that the biggest celebration of this week is coming up on the 25th of December, varied cultures have been celebrating this momentous occasion for several centuries.
The Winter Solstice occurs sometime between December 21 and December 22, depending on the shifting of the calendar, and is commonly known as the shortest day of the year. No, there’s no need to change your clocks; the sun’s maximum position is at its lowest on the solstice, therefore producing the fewest hours of sunlight.
You may be thinking—Why would so many cultures be celebrating the darkest day of the year? Well, in truth, most were not celebrating the darkest day… but the return of light. After the Winter Solstice, the sun slowly starts to increase its arc creating more daylight to each 24 hour period. World Wide, countless generations have feasted on the Solstice to celebrate the rebirth of the sun and the meaning of hope. And now, within the Christian age, people celebrate the birth of the Son and a similar sentiment just a few days later!
The importance of the Earth’s phases and astrological cycles have been a central point to a multitude of cultures and societies; making this turning point a vital day across the globe. Many of the ancient wonders of the world, like Stone Hedge and the Pyramids of Giza, are very intimately connected to astrological happenings.
Far Eastern traditions see the Solstice and the changing in light as an essential part of their balanced and harmonious Taoist philosophy of the Yin and the Yang. While Western Slavic cultures saw the Winter Solstice similarly to the way we see Halloween, as a night when evil spirits come out to enjoy the night, but are eventually defeated by the resurrected sun. From India to Chile, ancient traditions have marked the Winter Solstice as a feast day to celebrate the return of sunlight.
Now that I have you all excited about the return of lazy summer afternoons where the sun stays out long into the evening… you can start dreaming of outdoor barbeques and quiet mornings with coffee… despite the snowy piles outside your window. With garden benches available in Western Red Cedar, Synthetic Wicker, and even luxurious Teak, how could you not be ready to pull your whole family outside?
But, remember, though we’re celebrating the return of the sun… we still have plenty of Winter ahead of us. But, don’t worry! Cedarstore.com and GazeboCreations.com have Cabanas, Poolhouses, and Sunrooms available with insulation to keep you warm while enjoying outdoor living until the Spring Equinox comes around!
See You Outside!
Hazel
