The Winter Solstice has arrived—the shortest day and the longest night of the year in the Northern hemishpere.

 In the ancient rhythm of the earth, this is the "midwinter," a profound turning point where the sun seems to stand still before the light begins its slow, triumphant return. This year, the solstice coincides with the New Moon, creating a powerful double-layer of darkness and potential.  We also have the 3I/Atlas an ancient ‘comet’ from another galaxy making its closest and only approach to earth.  Energetically there is a great deal going on…..

We max out our to do list at this time of year.  Gearing up for Christmas and the end of 2025.  

As a yoga and Pilates teacher, I often speak about the space between the breaths. This New Moon Solstice is exactly that: the cosmic pause. It is a time for "the deep rest" before the rebirth. In a world that demands we constantly "do," this season asks us to simply be.

The Power of the New Moon Solstice

The New Moon represents a blank slate—a time to plant seeds and set intentions. Being in Sagittarius it encouragers us to dream big.   When it meets the Winter Solstice, the energy is focused on introspection and self-realization. It is a time to look inward, acknowledge how far you have come, and decide what "dose of joy" you want to carry into the coming year.

Taking time for yourself during this window isn't a luxury; it’s a necessity for your spirit. Here are five ways to honor this transition and reconnect with your inner light.

1. The Tea Ritual: Savoring the Moment

There is a profound alchemy in the act of making tea. It isn’t just about hydration; it’s about the ritual of slowing down. 

As Tich Na Han says ‘if you drink the tea drink the tea’

• The Practice: Brew a cup of tea. As the steam rises, feel the warmth of the mug in your hands. This is a sensory anchor.

• The Intent: Before you take your first sip, set one small intention for the day. Allow the herbal notes to ground you. This is your time to nourish your body from the inside out, turning a simple habit into a sacred "dose of joy."

2. Conscious Breathwork: Clearing the Space

Breath is the bridge between the mind and the body. During the darkness of the New Moon, our energy can feel heavy or stagnant.

• The Practice: Find a quiet corner, perhaps wearing your favorite Eluroom long-sleeve top for warmth. Practice "Sama Vritti" (Equal Breathing). Inhale for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold empty for four.

• The Intent: With every exhale, imagine releasing the stresses of the past year. With every inhale, breathe in the quiet strength of the winter earth.

• Try this one to help get you started

3. The Nature Walk: Connecting to the Cycle

The solstice is an earth-based event. To truly understand it, you must step outside.

• The Practice: Take a slow, mindful walk in nature. Observe the trees—they are dormant, but not dead. They are pulling their energy down into their roots to prepare for spring.

• The Intent: Walking in the crisp air helps regulate your nervous system. Look for the "dragonflies" and "butterflies" of the natural world—even in winter, there is evidence of transformation everywhere.

4. Movement as Meditation: Teacher-Tested Flow

As a teacher, I know that sometimes we need to move the body to still the mind.

• The Practice: Roll out your mat and move through a gentle Pilates or Yoga flow. Focus on the feeling of your muscles stretching and the support of the ground beneath you, the temperature of the air on your skin how the breath changes with every movement.  

• The Intent: Don’t move for "fitness" today; move for feeling. Use this time to check in with your physical self. How does your heart feel? How does your body want to move?

• I sometimes put a class on you tube why not try this one to help ground 

5. Give the Gift of Joy: The "Dose of Joy" Edition

Self-care can also be about the things we surround ourselves with. Our Dose of Joy editions—whether it's a beautifully embroidered piece or a curated gift set—are designed to be reminders of your own magic.

• The Practice: Revisit your wardrobe or your space. Surround yourself with motifs that symbolize your growth, like moon crest embroidery or butterfly symbols.

• The Intent: Giving a "Dose of Joy" to a friend—or back to yourself—is a way to anchor the solstice energy. It’s a physical reminder that even in the darkest months, we can carry the sparkle of self-realization with us.

If you have used the eluroom Dose of joy why not revisit it or find your favourite.  It’s a fabulous course why not share the joy with someone.  Dose of joy.

Final Thoughts: Lighting the Internal Fire

As the moon begins to wax and the days slowly lengthen, remember that you are part of this natural cycle. You don’t have to bloom all year round. Use this New Moon Solstice to rest deeply, breathe fully, and treat yourself with the kindness you so freely give to others.

Step into the light of the new year feeling empowered, connected, and—above all—joyful.

Wishing you a peaceful and transformative Solstice.