What is the Winter Solstice?
The Winter Solstice marks the official first day of winter and falls on December 21st marking the year’s longest night and shortest period of daylight. Astronomically, it occurs when the Northern Hemisphere tilts farthest from the sun, creating the lowest arc of daylight in the sky. From this point forward, each day becomes a little brighter as the light slowly returns.
Across cultures and centuries, the Winter Solstice has symbolized renewal, reflection, and the promise of longer days ahead. Many ancient sites, including Stonehenge, were designed to capture the Solstice sunrise or sunset, marking its significance in human history.
Today, people still honour this turning point of the year, often with simple, grounding rituals that create warmth, invite stillness, and celebrate nature. We would like to share a few meaningful ways to mark the Solstice, each paired with incense scents to make the season feel even more comforting.
1) Create a Sacred & Cozy Space
Winter can be long, so creating a warm, comforting environment is a beautiful way to welcome the Solstice. Think soft blankets, layered pillows, and gentle lighting from Himalayan salt lamps.
Pair your cozy setup with warm, grounding incense fragrances like Egyptian Musk, Amber or our special Winter Seasonal blend. These soft, warming scents are perfect for reading, journaling, or simply enjoying the quiet.
2) Fire Rituals & the Return of the Sun
Fire has long been a symbol of the sun’s return, and even the simplest modern ritual can feel meaningful. Whether you light a candle, curl up beside a fireplace (real or virtual), or bundle up for a safe winter bonfire, these small acts create a moment of warmth during the darkest time of year.
You can also honour the Solstice by adding fire-element crystals to an altar or seasonal display. Their colours and energy echo the growing light and bring a sense of intention to your space.
3) Create a Holiday Altar
Evergreens have been part of Winter Solstice traditions for thousands of years. Their ability to stay vibrant through snow and freezing temperatures made them powerful symbols of resilience, renewal, and life during the darkest point of the year. By the 16th century, the German tradition of decorating indoor trees had taken root, eventually evolving into the modern Christmas tree we recognize today.
Today, evergreens appear in many forms, from full holiday trees to simple boughs, wreaths, or small Solstice altars. Bringing greenery indoors is a way of honouring the season and connecting with nature when much of the landscape is quiet and dormant.
To complement this tradition, Evergreen incense adds the fresh, woodsy scent of a winter forest, creating a comforting backdrop as you decorate or prepare your space for the Solstice.
4) Nature Inspired Gifts
Winter Solstice traditions often honour the natural world, and handmade gifts are a beautiful way to bring that spirit forward. Using simple elements like pine cones, evergreen boughs, herbs, and dried fruit can transform into wreaths, centrepieces, and small seasonal gifts that feel thoughtful and grounding.
DIY guides and inspiration:
- Fresh wreath tutorial: How to Make a Fresh Wreath
- Bird feeders & bird-watching gifts: Lee Valley - Birding
- More nature-themed ideas: Urban Nature Store
If you’re crafting indoors on a snowy afternoon, warm incense fragrances can set the tone. Scents like Cinnamon Spice and Vanilla add a cozy, comforting atmosphere while you create, perfect for leaning into the slower pace of the season.
5) Embrace the Outdoors
A winter hike is a beautiful way to honour the season. Fresh air, quiet landscapes, and even a few minutes of sunshine can lift your spirits.
Before heading out, remember:
- Check weather conditions
- Dress in layers
- Pack water and snacks
- Wear sunscreen (even in winter!)
- Consider crampons if trails may be icy
Helpful resources for a successful winter hike:
- Winter trails near Toronto
- Winter Hiking Prep Guide
- Proper Gear:
When you return home, light a stick of Canadian Forest incense from our Walk in the Woods collection to recreate the scent of pine, snow-dusted branches, and quiet winter woods.
The Winter Solstice is a marker of stillness, reflection, and the gentle return of light, nature’s way of extending an invitation to slow down and reconnect with the season in meaningful ways. Whether you’re staying cozy indoors, celebrating with fire, crafting with natural materials, or enjoying the outdoors, incense can help set the tone and deepen your Winter Solstice rituals.
Written by Flo Ray
