Embracing the Winter Solstice: A Time for Reflection and Renewal
The Winter Solstice marks the longest night and the shortest day of the year. It’s a powerful moment of transition, as nature settles into its quietest season. Winter invites us to slow down, reflect, and dig deep into the shadows of our lives to uncover truths we may have avoided.
Winter isn’t just about cold weather and darker days; it symbolizes transformation and the opportunity for inner work. It’s a time to shed the baggage we’ve been carrying and make room for new beginnings. Shadow work, the process of acknowledging and healing hidden parts of ourselves, becomes especially significant now. It’s like finally taking that broken car out of the garage and working on it, instead of just walking past it every day and lamenting its state. Until you face it, you’ll never experience the joy of driving it with peace and freedom.
What Winter Means for Us
Winter challenges us to face our inner worlds. It strips away the distractions of busier seasons and urges us to embrace stillness. Just as trees shed their leaves, we’re called to let go of what no longer serves us.
Ask yourself: What’s been weighing you down? What old habits, beliefs, or relationships are keeping you stuck? Shadow work may feel like an endless process, but it’s also incredibly liberating. For those of you who have yet to start, or know someone who hasn’t, consider this your wake-up call. Next year—a year governed by the numerological energy of 9—is all about endings and transformations. It’s time to stop carrying the bullshit and make real progress.
Reflection Exercise: Facing the Mirror
Take a moment to reflect on what triggers negative emotions in your life. Here’s an example:
-
Question: What’s been pissing you off, making you sad, or leaving you feeling stuck?
-
Reverse it: Look in the mirror and ask yourself, “Where have I been contributing to this pattern?”
Example: “I don’t like when people don’t do what they say they will do.” Now ask yourself: “Have I ever said I’d do something and then didn’t follow through?” Recognize the moments where you’ve let yourself or others down. This isn’t about blame; it’s about awareness and accountability.
When you begin to uncover these patterns, you empower yourself to break them. Shadow work doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require honesty and effort. You can’t heal what you won’t face.
Take Action
As we honor the Winter Solstice, let this be a turning point. It’s time to clear out what no longer serves you and step into the new year with purpose. Stop waiting for the “right” moment—the time is now. Shadow work is not optional if you truly want peace and freedom in your life. It’s a necessity.
I’m here to help you on this journey. Schedule a 1:1 reading or a shadow work-focused session to gain clarity and direction. For those with tight schedules, I offer 10-minute video readings for $25—quick, effective, and transformative.
If you’ve worked on the "Returning to Me" workbook I shared a couple of months ago, I’d love to hear your feedback! Your insights help shape what comes next. Speaking of what’s next, I’m thrilled to announce that a companion journal will be available next year to deepen your journey. It’s designed to pair beautifully with the workbook and keep you on track.
Winter is a season of rest and regeneration. Use this time wisely. Your future self is counting on you.
I'm rooting for YOU!
-Asia