December Celebrations

December is a month filled with celebration. It represents a beautiful balance of letting go and inviting in. We put a little on one side of the seesaw, watch the other side tip, and adjust as we go. December is a time when we might feel a breath of fresh air, the change of weather may feel expansive, or quiet snow dressed mornings may remind us to take a moment to tend to ourselves. The Winter Solstice and Yule are on their way, bringing reflection and renewal.

The holidays can also been a hard time for those dealing with loss, heartache, grief, or tough family gatherings. (One may find a heart soothing bath soak recipe below to support the heart and emotional self during these times.)

Yule, Winter Solstice, and Rebirth of the Sun

The Winter Solstice, celebrates the longest hours of darkness in the year, signifying darkness turning into light, the return of the sun and the knowing of warmer months to come. It is a tradition and celebration that can be seen all over the world in ancient and present times, with unique types of activities, beliefs, customs to each place and group of peoples. In Pagan/Germanic practices, the solstice is also known as Yule. Yuletide celebrations may include burning the “yule log” for the full 12 days of Yule, dancing and singing as the sun rises, feasting with loved ones, making wreaths, burning candles, sitting around bonfires to honor and hold reverence for the sacred light of the sun and the things, connect, people, and sweet moments that keep our inner fires lit. The Solstice/Yule is a wonderful time to meditate and think about the year that has passed, what we have accomplished thus far, and where we would like to cultivate in the future.

This month, Juniper is our herb ally assisting us in created sacredness and purifying internal and external spaces we inhabit by way of giving us the clarity and focus to plant seeds, hopes, and wishes for the future.

JUNIPER

Juniper is cleansing and moving to the system. As a circulatory stimulant, it can be helpful ally when we are experiencing stagnancy in the body, whether that be physically, mentally, or emotionally. It is a great local plant ally for those of us here living in Colorado and can be burned to increase psychic powers, for protection and healing, as well as for breaking curses.

JUNIPER IS CONTRAINDICATED IN PREGNANCY.

Heart Soothing Spiritual Bath

  • 1 pt Linden

  • 1/2 pt Chickweed

  • 1/4 pt Red Roses

  • 1/8 pt Juniper

  • Optional: 1/8 pt Ginger ~ if you tend to have trouble staying warm in the winter!

Directions: 3 Methods

A) One may add the herbs straight into the bath (however, beware of clean up and clogging drains!)

B) Put herb blend into a reusable muslin bag and set in bath, best if put under the running water when filling the tub.

C) Brew as a tea and pour into the bath.

Directions for tea brewing/Option C: Add 1 tablespoon per cup of boiling water. Let tea steep for 20-30 minutes, strain, and enjoy! Herbalist tip: A french press is a great and easy way to make loose leaf herbal tea.

Warming Yuletide Essential Oil Blend

  • 10 drops Vanilla

  • 3 drops Juniper

  • 3 drops Pine

  • 3 drops Clove

  • 1 drops Vetiver

  • 1 drop Black Pepper

  • 2 oz carrier oil or lotion

  • Optional: Make into a rollerball or spray.

We recommend diluting the essential oils in a carrier oil or mixing them with your favorite lotion. (Don’t have one? Our Shea Cream here at Apothecary Tinctura is a great base for mixing!)

Merry Yuletide, Celebrations, and Happy New year!

Kristin Schuch