The 12 Days Of Yule
What is Yule?
Yule, also known as the Winter Solstice, is a festival celebrated around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the longest night and the return of the sun. It’s a time of reflection, warmth, and the rekindling of light within us. The traditions of Yule stem from ancient pagan practices, celebrating the Earth's rebirth as it transitions from darkness to light.
The 12 Days of Yule
The 12 days of Yule, starting on December 21st and culminating on January 1st, consist of various rituals, celebrations, and activities designed to honor the returning sun. Here’s a breakdown of what to do each day:
Day 1 - Yule Blessings: Set intentions for the coming year. Use a Yule log decorated with herbs to symbolize your wishes.
Day 2 - Nature Walk: Gather evergreens and natural items to create decorations. Sing songs or recite poems about nature’s beauty.
Day 3 - Creating Altar: Set up a Yule altar with seasonal decorations, candles, and offerings. Include symbols of the season like pinecones and holly.
Day 4 - Family Feast: Gather loved ones for a meal. Serve traditional Yule foods like roasted meat, root vegetables, and spiced cider.
Day 5 - Gift Giving: Exchange meaningful gifts, focusing on handmade or practical items that represent love and connection.
Day 6 - Reflect and Write: Dedicate time to journal your reflections from the past year and your aspirations for the next.
Day 7 - Crafting: Create ornaments for your tree or home using herbs and natural materials to honor nature’s cycle.
Day 8 - Candles and Light: Light a candle for each intention or hope for the new year. Use different colored candles representing various goals.
Day 9 - Herbal Infusion: Prepare an herbal tea or infusion using herbs that resonate with you, like peppermint or chamomile.
Day 10 - Share a Memory: Share a memory or a story from the past year with friends or family, enhancing connections and laughter.
Day 11 - Nature Connection: Spend time outdoors, meditating or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of winter’s stillness.
Day 12 - Reflection Celebration: Host a small gathering to reflect on memories and intentions shared throughout the 12 days, closing the cycle of Yule.
Herbs and Essential Oils Associated with Yule
Cinnamon: Associated with warmth and prosperity; great for festive baking and infusions.
Pine: Represents strength and endurance; use as a tea, in potpourri, or essential oil.
Mistletoe: Symbolizes peace and harmony; often used in decorations.
Cedarwood: Offers grounding and protection; use it in incense or oil.
Nutmeg: Brings comfort and can enhance holiday meals and treats.
Recipes
Cinnamon-Spiced Yule Tea
Ingredients:
1 tsp dried cinnamon
1 tsp dried chamomile
1 tsp dried peppermint
1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
Combine the herbs in a teapot.
Pour boiling water over the blend.
Steep for 5-10 minutes, then strain.
Sweeten with honey if desired and enjoy!
Yule Essential Oil Blend
Ingredients:
3 drops Cedarwood oil
2 drops Cinnamon oil
2 drops Orange oil
Instructions:
Combine the essential oils in a small roll-on bottle with a carrier oil.
Apply to pulse points for warmth and cheer during the festive season.
Embrace the long nights and celebrate the return of the light with thoughtful rituals, herbs, and cherished moments. Happy Yule!
