Solstice Ritual Journaling Prompts
“Solstice” mixed-media collage by Gabrielle Abbott
The Winter Solstice marks the day when the Earth is farthest away from the Sun and nights are the longest.
It is also the turning point- when the days start to lengthen and we return to the light.
We feel the energy of this season intensely because the changes in available light affect energy levels in our physical bodies.
Here are my favorite journaling prompts to reflect on this auspicious day of shadow.
Note: I use the word “practice” to describe my art career. Alternatively, you could use these questions to evaluate your relationship, health, or any other aspect of your lifestyle.
Solstice Journaling Prompts for Your Creative Practice:⠀
#1: Look back at the past six months since the Summer solstice.
What have you “harvested” this cycle? What projects have you completed? What skills have you learned? How have you “up-leveled?”
Brainstorm as many things as you can think of, and write down everything that you’re most proud of. ⠀
Circle, underline, or mark your favorite three, and we will come back to those.
#2: Admire what’s SHINING in your life.
Where are you finding joy and inspiration?
What people, habits, and places are supporting you?
#3: Face the shadow.
What’s not working?
If your practice is a machine- what parts need oiling or repair?
Identify the one thing you could fix that would offer the most relief and quality of life improvement. Write it down. ⠀
#4: Dream up the next cycle.
What seeds will you plant and germinate in this new solar cycle?
What can be started in the next 6 months?
Based on the three projects you’re most proud of, what types of work will you seek?
How can you support the things that are currently SHINING and inspiring you?
What are three realistic actions you can take to fix the biggest problem you identified? ⠀
#5: Honor your growth.
Think back to Winter Solstice one year ago. What has changed in your life since then? What amazing things have you done, experienced, or seen that might have seemed almost impossible a year before?
Share this list with a loved one and ask them to share theirs.
⠀
#6: Synthesize your reflections.
The next few weeks are a take time to rest and rejuvenate.⠀
Unplug.
Get away from your phone and other devices (you’ll hear the inner voice better in silence). ⠀
Get into nature.
Notice how the cold and darkness affect mama earth.
Observe how the stillness is necessary for the riotous growth of spring which surely comes. ⠀
Rest.
Rest.
More rest (it’s ok, you need it). ⠀