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Welcoming the Light
As winter’s chill lingers and the days slowly lengthen, January 6th marks, in the northern hemisphere, a significant moment in the spiritual calendar: the Return of the Sun. For many spiritual and pagan traditions, this day symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, the promise of renewal, and the gradual awakening of life from winter’s slumber. It’s a time to reflect on the cycles of nature and to embrace the opportunities for growth and transformation that the new year brings.
Whether you’re observing this day through quiet reflection, meaningful rituals, or celebratory feasts, it’s time to reconnect with the rhythms of the Earth and set intentions for the brighter days ahead, and the year just starting.
What is the Return of the Sun?
The Return of the Sun is deeply rooted in humanity’s reverence for light and its role in sustaining life. Across cultures and eras, this time of year has been celebrated as a turning point when the days gradually grow longer and the Earth begins its slow journey toward spring. While the Winter Solstice (Yule) marks the longest night of the year, the Return of the Sun celebrates the visible lengthening of daylight that follows.
In ancient traditions, this day was often marked with rituals to honour the sun’s power and its vital role in the cycles of nature. For modern practitioners, it serves as a reminder of hope, renewal, and the enduring connection between humanity and the natural world.
Today, in Canada, it is not very widely observed among pagans but, on the heels of the New Year’s celebrations, it feels like a good moment to pause and celebrate that the sun comes back every cycle.
January 6th is important for many other spiritual paths. For Christians it is the Epiphany, for Eastern Christianity, it is the Theophany, for the Celtic peoples, Irish and Scots, it is Nollaig na mBan (“Women’s Christmas”) or Little Christmas, a day when women reign supreme, receive gifts, and men must do all the work, while women put their feet up and are served in turn by their men.
Themes of the Return of the Sun
At its core, the Return of the Sun embodies several powerful themes:
- Light Overcoming Darkness: The gradual increase in daylight mirrors personal journeys of overcoming challenges and finding clarity. This is a time to welcome hope and positivity into your life.
- Renewal and Energy: As the natural world prepares for spring, individuals are encouraged to harness this energy to refresh their own lives. It’s an ideal time for setting intentions and embracing new opportunities for a new beginning.
- Alignment with Nature: Foster a deeper connection with the Earth’s cycles, promoting mindfulness and a sense of balance.
It’s perfectly fine to get creative in your observances, and use these themes to select the right elements for you, and align your event with the tradition.
Rituals to Celebrate the Return of the Sun
Celebrations can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. After months of darkness and waning light, light is an important aspect of the celebration of the sun returned. Here are some meaningful ways to mark the occasion:
- Lighting Candles: Illuminate your space with candles to symbolize the growing light. Arrange them in a circle or line to represent the sun’s journey across the sky.
- Meditation: Take time to meditate on the themes of light and renewal. Visualize the sun’s warmth filling your body and energizing your spirit.
- Cleansing Your Space: Use incense, sage, or rosemary to cleanse your home and invite positive energy.
- Create a Seasonal Altar: Decorate your altar with symbols of light, such as sun-shaped objects, crystals like clear quartz or citrine, and winter greenery to honour nature’s cycles.
- Outdoor Connection: If weather permits, take a walk in nature to observe the subtle signs of change and connect with the Earth’s energy.
I’m going to share my family’s secret tradition for Return of the Sun: My young daughters and I started a tradition of lighting sparklers on the evening of the 6th of January, and running around the backyard in circles like crazy people. They looked forward to the Return of the Sun from Yule all the way to January 6th every year and receiving their package of sparklers was almost as big as Yule gifts. Even today, as adults, they are mindful of the cycle, through their fond memories of our yearly celebrations.
Recipes for Celebration
Food has always been a part of celebrations and this observance of light is no different. Incorporate some simple recipes that evoke light, warmth, the sun and growth into your Return of the Sun celebrations. Here are two examples:
- Golden Sun Bread: Make a round loaf of bread symbolizing the sun. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and sweetness. Share it with loved ones as part of a communal ritual.
- Sunshine Tea: Brew a blend of citrus, ginger, and honey for a warming, revitalizing drink. Sip it mindfully, focusing on the energy and vitality it brings.
Make the preparation of these recipes a ritual in itself, infusing them with intentions of warmth, renewal, and gratitude.
How to Sustain the Energy into Spring
The Return of the Sun is not just a single day but the beginning of a season of light and growth. Here’s how to keep its energy alive:
- Daily Practices: Start each day with a moment of gratitude and reflection. Light a candle or spend a few minutes journalling your intentions.
- Acts of Kindness: Spread warmth and light by performing small acts of kindness in your community.
- Mindful Living: Incorporate mindfulness into your routine, staying present and aligned with the positive energy of the season.
Carry the Light Forward
The Return of the Sun is a celebration of light, hope, and renewal. By honouring this day with meaningful rituals, reflective practices, and communal joy, you can align yourself with the natural rhythms of the Earth and set the tone for a bright and fulfilling year.
How will you honour the Return of the Sun this year? Share your rituals, recipes, or reflections in the comments and let your light shine!
