Solstice Clearing Ritual

Longer nights, shorter days (for us here in the Northern Hemisphere). ‘Tis the season.

If you’re looking for a great way to celebrate the Winter Solstice, and clear at the same time, consider this invitation and ritual from my yoga teacher, Melissa Fountain.

Even if you’re living where the days are getting hotter for you right now, it will work just the same:

“We are ever in the embrace of darkness and light, yet the solstice marks an opportunity to celebrate a new beginning, the earth’s axis tilting towards the sun, as the daylight grows longer.

This month, I suggest writing a list of all the things you feel in a hurry about, every worry you’re carrying, what needs and greed you have, and what are your greatest fears. Then take that list, on the winter’s solstice, and make a burnt offering of it. Toss it in the fire, bringing those things to an end. While doing this, you can say a prayer, or chant a mantra. In this way, by your very offering, you become the offering. Then in every moment, without fear, you can pour your full Self into all you do, and all you are.”

–Melissa Fountain, via YogaConnection Newsletter, December 2011