the magic of the winter solstice

“You are what your deepest desire is.
As your desire is, so is your intention.
As your intention is, so is your will.
As your will is, so is your deed.
As your deed is, so is your destiny.”
–The Upanishads

december 21st, the winter solstice, marks the shortest day of the year and the return of the sun's light. this auspicious day has been celebrated for millennia as a symbol of rebirth and renewal.

 as the earth shifts and begins tilting towards the sun,  we, too, are encouraged to toward our inner light (our sun, if you will), realigning with our deepest aspirations and setting intentions for the coming year. amidst the busy-ness of the holiday season, the solstice provides a sacred space for reflection and planning.

setting intentions during the winter solstice provides a framework for our future endeavors. it's akin to illuminating a path through the darkness of winter, guiding us towards a brighter future. these intentions are not rigid, fixed destinations, but rather adaptable guidelines or touch points which allow for adjustments and course corrections. they acknowledge the possibility of missteps.  some may call these missteps mistakes.  however, there are no mistakes, only learning opportunities and information.  viewing this way is helpful, bringing flexibility and serving as a compass, directing us towards our fullest potential, our best selves.

an intention is the seed of a dream, the spark that transforms the unconscious into the conscious. it's the creative force behind our desires, whether they pertain to career, relationships, material possessions, or spiritual growth. thoughts become actions, actions become habits, and habits create our life.

as in our life on and off the mat, our intentions are fluid and ever evolving. through consistent effort and mindful practice, these intentions gradually integrate into our being, becoming second nature as old habits and patterns fall away. like a seed planted in the garden, an intention requires nurturing and patience (water, sunlight, fertilizer). it also requires release – a willingness to let go of that which does not serve us (weeding the garden) and trusting the universe will provide.

join us on this very auspicious day for a yoga practice that will support you in moving inward and finding your guiding light.

p.s. the picture is an atmospheric optical phenomenon called a moondog 

light your lamp & you light the world

-june and the moondog team