Turn your home into a winter (solstice) wonderland
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Written By: Brittany Harlow
(NATIONAL) From frigid temps to weeks of holiday celebrations, it is hard to believe the first day of winter is just arriving. But it’s true. Winter starts Wednesday and will reign until the spring equinox on March 20, 2023.
The winter solstice is the shortest day and the longest night of the year. People have celebrated its arrival as the return of the sun for thousands of years, as every day that follows is just a light brighter.
Want to join the millennia of celebration? Here are some ideas for turning your home into a winter (solstice) wonderland this year.
Light
Fire is a traditional symbol of winter solstice celebrations, so feel free to display and light up a few extra candles this season. You can never have too many candles, right? Common winter scents are pine, clove, sage, and mint.
Other light sources could include string lights and even luminarias (paper lanterns). Luminarias are filled with sand, so they won’t blow away. You can even put flickering LED candle lights in them if you are not comfortable with an open flame.
Nature
One of the oldest traditions of celebrating winter solstice is decorating a Yule tree. Have you already put up your Christmas tree? Then we’re in good shape!
Trees represent the idea that life goes on during winter and you can expand on this tradition by incorporating even more nature into your home décor. We’re talking evergreen garlands, pinecones, holly, and don’t forget the mistletoe!
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Citrus is another solstice tradition and is particularly popular in Japan. During Toji, some Japanese people even bathe with citrus fruits to help them stay healthy and prevent sickness.
Other Elements
There’s no air like winter air. Unfortunately, winter (like summer) can be very dehydrating for the air, and us. So why not spruce up the air and your guests with some humidifiers? Certain kinds allow you to incorporate essential oils, called diffusers.
Frankincense is known as the king of essential oils, so treasured it was gifted to Jesus after he was born. Diffusing this resin, or even burning it as incense, is sure to kick your winter solstice home into high gear.
Finally, nothing says cleansing and the miracle of life like water. It could be time to splurge on that mirror waterfall fountain or perhaps just a floor or tabletop one.
The winter solstice is a celebration of our world and its natural beauty, so make sure to incorporate some of its warmth into your home décor during this cold holiday season!
