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Solar Cycles"We are beginning to understand that the universe is not about us, we are not the centerpiece, in either space or time. Nor do we live in isolation from its infinite wonders; rather, we are intimate and integral participants within it."* The orbit of the Earth around the Sun provides the standard reference timeframe for all our lives, the year. Because of the tilt of the Earth, years are divided into seasons. The midpoint of each of these seasons is silently marked by a significant astronomical moment on the Earth's annual journey around the Sun: • The Winter Solstice (around 21 December) The four corner (or cross-quarter) days half way between these points are also significant as they mark the beginning of each season: • The Spring Corner Day (around 4 February) These eight thresholds are shared all over the globe (although the dates must be advanced by six months for the southern hemisphere) and are characterised by noticeable changes in the length and quality of natural daylight, in weather patterns and in the activity of plants, birds and animals within the Earth's ecosystem. Each season of the year is special, with its own sights, sounds and atmosphere. As the wheel of the year cycles round, humans also respond to the seasonal changes and experience different feelings and motivations. Reconnecting with Nature involves becoming conscious of this process and using it to inform one's life. Living in synch with the seasons in this way is to live in harmony with the Earth herself.  The Winter Solstice The winter solstice is the time when the Sun reaches its most southerly distance from the (celestial) equator. So, in the northern hemisphere, this is the time when the Sun is lowest in the sky at midday and the time of the shortest days of the year. From this point onwards, the Sun will start to climb in the sky, days will get longer and more sunlight will reach the Earth. The returning light provides a glimpse of spring and, therefore, the promise of new beginnings. Hopes and aspirations for the coming year can be considered in quiet contemplation in the dark, still days of mid-winter. Then it is time to welcome back the Sun, giver of life and warmth, and to enjoy the many celebrations this season brings!
This page will be updated in February. Use the calendar link on the left to discover the dates of upcoming equinoxes, solstices and corner days. If you live in the southern hemisphere, click HERE. * Antenna/Pomegranate (2004). See the resources page for full details of all sources.
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© David Hand 2005 All rights reserved |
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