Echoes

Winter Solstice 2024

Today is the Winter Solstice. The sun will set at 5:11 pm this evening; 1711 for us military and healthcare folks. The number 11 holds deep spiritual, mystical, and symbolic significance across cultures, philosophies, and belief systems. In numerology, 11 is known as a master number representing intuition, spiritual insight, and higher consciousness. The number 11 is a powerful symbol of spiritual connection and potential. Whether it appears as a life path number, in synchronicities, or during moments of reflection, it invites you to trust the journey and embrace your spiritual truth. Some key themes are:

• Intuition and spiritual insight

• Balance, duality, and harmony

• Alignment with your higher purpose

• A gateway to spiritual transformation

• Visionary energy and leadership

Setting an Intention

Setting an intention means consciously choosing a focus or purpose to guide your thoughts, actions, and energy. It is a clear and deliberate statement of what you want to create, feel, or embody in your life. Unlike goals or resolutions which are outcome-oriented, an intention is rooted in the present moment and reflects your values and desires. Allow your intentions to be your compass, helping you align with your authentic self and move through life with presence and purpose. Intention setting for Winter Solstice signifies: 

• Rebirth and Renewal: The return of the Sun signifies the triumph of light over darkness. This is a time to reflect on personal challenges and prepare for growth and renewal.

• Stillness and Deep Reflection: The long night invites introspection. It’s a powerful time to go inward, set intentions, and connect with inner truths.

• Ancient Traditions: From the Celtic Yule to Saturnalia in ancient Rome, the solstice has been honored with rituals that celebrate life, fertility, and the cyclical nature of existence.

• Energy Portal: Many believe the solstice opens a spiritual gateway, offering heightened energy for manifestation and connection to higher realms.

I encourage you to look up your Zodiac sign and see what this Winter Solstice has in store for you. There are too many stars in the sky and galaxies undiscovered for us to think there isn't more to learn from the night sky, changing moons, and drifting tides. I am a Pisces so the next section is for us deeply feeling water creatures. You might want to grab some hot tea if you don't already have some. 

Winter Solstice for Pisces

As a Pisces, you’re a deeply intuitive and spiritually attuned water sign. During the solstice:

• Reflection and Intuition: The solstice’s inward energy resonates with your natural ability to connect with emotions and the unseen. Use this time to meditate, journal, or explore dreams.

• Releasing Old Patterns: Pisces often carry emotional burdens for others. The solstice is a perfect time to let go of what no longer serves you, creating space for healing and renewal.

• Creative Vision: Your imagination thrives under this energy. Visualize the life you want to create in the coming year.

For the Collective (that's the rest of yall aka all yall)

The winter solstice is a time for everyone to slow down and realign. Its themes are universal:

• A Call to Rest: The solstice reminds us of the importance of rest and stillness, urging us to pause and recharge for the next cycle.

• A Moment of Unity: Cultures worldwide have honored this moment, connecting us to a shared human history and the rhythms of the Earth.

• Manifestation and New Beginnings: As the light returns, this is a time to set intentions for personal and collective growth, focusing on hope, love, and transformation. The Winter Solstice offers a profound reminder: even in the darkest times, the light will always return. It’s a moment to honor the cycles of life and embrace the potential of what’s to come.

Final Thoughts

I do yoga; not super good at it, not super bad for someone with two surgically reconstructed hips. For some yoga is a workout. For me, yoga is a "work-in." The moment I step onto my mat, it becomes something deeper. It's not about pushing limits; it's a spiritual practice much like prayer. It is a space where I reconnect with my body, my breath, and the present moment. Each pose, and each breath is a new beginning, an act of self-compassion, and a stark reminder for me to honor where I am and who I am right now. 

I found life when I found an unsupported bridge pose on the ground. I find the sky whenever my knees hit the mat. 

May you lean in and listen. Everything you need is right here in this moment. 

Together 

May we honor the dark

May we honor the light

May we honor our gifts

May we move forward from this moment with certainty over worry

May we cultivate curiosity over passion and grace over purpose

May we all run wild and free

And on this day of the Winter Solstice

May we all know rest and peace

Rest. Reflect. Run. Wild. 

This is the Echo of a Warrior.

With Love, 

Kellie