Winter Solstice - December 21, 2015

One thing the seasons teach us is that we can flow and change like the seasons. New spring growth leads to summer ripeness which leads to fall harvest which in turn leads to winter dormancy. Winter is upon us! The first day of winter is December 21, 2015 and the solstice is precise at 11:48 PM ET.

​Winter solstice is the longest night of the year here in the northern hemisphere. It marks the first day of winter and coincides with the ingress of the sun into Capricorn, but it is no coincidence. The solstice occurs when the sun aligns with the Tropic of Capricorn as the sun reaches it's southern most latitude. When the sun reaches the Tropic of Capricorn it marks the first day of the sun in Capricorn in the tropical zodiac system.

When it is dark, when there is not as much light, it is time to rest, recuperate, recharge. Ironically this is also the time of year when people do a lot of celebrating. Both Christmas and New Years holidays fall during this time of darkness and we can balance ourselves by also allowing time for reflection and by honoring what is sacred and peaceful within our lives. What represent the light in the darkness in our own lives?
​
Happy Winter Solstice!
Welcome Capricorn!
Namaste,
Nikki Rich
Astrology, Tarot, Reiki

---