Today is the shortest day, longest night of the year today – the Winter Solstice. The norm in this day and age is usually get through work, have dinner then curl up on the sofa before an early night, but despite the fact that we have barely seen daylight today, it is significant because of the promise of what is yet to come.
In the past, Yule or The Winter Solstice actually had some significant traditions which actually meant something and which have been gradually diluted over the years but which might still have some value;
Under pagan beliefs, Yule is actually celebrating the birth of the sun god - the rebirth of the sun – which in practical terms means we can now look forward to longer days and more light – beginning tomorrow. Hoorah!
Holly and Ivy used to brought into the house on this night – both evergreens to symbolise that the earth never dies, these were the precursor to our modern evergreen Christmas Tree and probably smelt a great deal nicer than some of the lurid pink plastic monstrosities which pass for “chic” in some places…
Collecting a Yule Log was significant as you found one big enough which could burn all over Christmas and the remains of which you kept to bring you luck the whole of the following year. Nowadays this tends to get symbolised by a big Chocolate Log and I feel I speak for all chocaholics out there when I say this is one tradition which must never be allowed to die…
Mistletoe and kissing is believed to be a Norse custom. Mistletoe was believed to be essential for fertility and love hence why according to most current day traditions, a young woman stands under the mistletoe and awaits her lover’s kiss, although in this day of equality, anything goes as first up to bat takes the strike.
Mistletoe, which in druid times was the most sacred of all plants could only be cut by priests. It was believed it had miraculous properties that could cure illnesses, antidote poisons, ensure fertility and protect against witchcraft. It was also a sign of peace and goodwill. When warring tribes came across Mistletoe, a temporary truce would be observed until the next day.
All the more reason to hang up a sprig now, pucker up and use it to combat any belligerent relatives!
Happy Yule, people!
