On Saturday, December 21^st at 4:19 AM, the winter solstice will usher in the season of Winter.  Along with snow, lower temperatures and less daylight, however, the winter solstice also brings wonder, traditions and atmospheric changes that have inspired and connected humans for millennia.  Take a look at some of the phenomena that accompanies the solstice.

The word solstice comes from two Latin words meaning “sun stoppage” because the amount of daylight is shorter or longer than usual.  In winter, the sun is closer to the earth, a phenomenon known as perihelion, but the angle that the sun’s rays reach the earth make them less warming.  Hence, the seasons are dependent on the sun’s position relative to the earth. 

The winter solstice has been observed by numerous peoples for centuries.  The Festival of Saturnalia, for instance, took place historically around December 19^th in ancient Rome.  It was celebrated as a weeklong holiday where businesses were closed, gambling with dice was permitted and slaves were given time off from their duties.  In Iran, Shab-e-Yalda is celebrated on December 21^st and commemorates the rebirth of the sun.  The holiday is ancient, possibly 7000 years old, and commemorates the lengthening days that come after the solstice.  At most people’s gatherings, summer fruits like watermelons and pomegranates are served as a preventative for winter colds and illnesses.  Their deep red color also represents the sun itself.  In some areas, poems by the 14^th-century Iranian poet Hafiz are recited.  The Hopi people celebrate Soyal, a festival which marks the beginning of the growing season and welcomes the Soyal Kachina, a protective spirit who is assisted by other kachinas. 

Aside from the holidays associated with the winter solstice, this time of year is often viewed as a chance for reflection and renewal.  It may be an excellent time to take advantage of self-care opportunities, such as exercise and personal wellness, or to seek out assistance for improving mental health.  IU East supports the physical, mental and emotional well-being of its students.  The campus offers all students free access to counseling services, and TimelyCare provides all IU East students access to wellness, self-care and mental health tools.  Once a month, students can access Wolfmart, which offers both food and toiletries.  When campus is open, the Wellness Room is available to all students, staff and faculty as a quiet space for rest, spiritual practices, nursing or other needs.  Feel free to take advantage of these services and take care of yourself during the winter.

Seeking information on winter solstice holidays?  Looking for tips on mental wellness during the winter?  Interested in learning more about how the seasons change?  Ask us!  iueref@iu.edu.