For the first 90% of my life minus another 15% I have had apprehension about Christmas. Whether it was trying to bring that joy and wonderous trove of later to be memories for my children or trying desperately to give thoughtful resonating presents to loved ones. A few years back I decided, with intention, to wring the stress out of Christmas and convert to a Yule celebration.

To embody this wholly for me meant bringing in the spirit lifting greenery of out wintery evergreen friends, putting up sparkly lights that didn’t have only significance for the commercial frippery but embodied every and any color in the spectrum as well. I try not to have purely white lights, but that is simply a personal preference for softer more rainbowy pigments. This year I dried orange slices (representing the sun) and cranberries, gathered up pine/fir cones and boughs of cedar. For a few years I have been attempting handmade gifts for loved ones. Outdoor fires under wintery skies happens, and I love it with everything that I am. I think my ritual of sorts will continue to evolve over time. Becoming something uniquely me. Offering soothing and rejoicing in a much more anxiety free way.

As for Yule itself, it has a long history but is generally a festival celebrated around the winter solstice, and has rich traditions. If you are curious about what is potentially involved in preparing for it, knowing its parts and various aspects will be helpful, I think:

1. Research and Understanding: Learn about Yule’s history, significance, and customs. Understanding its roots helps in appreciating the celebrations.
2. Decoration: Decorate your home with evergreen branches, candles, pine cones, and symbols of light and warmth. It symbolizes hope and renewal.
3. Feasting: Plan a feast with traditional foods like roasted meats, root vegetables, fruits, nuts, and spiced drinks. Share these meals with friends and family.
4. Rituals and Ceremonies: Create rituals or ceremonies that hold meaning for you. Lighting candles, practicing meditation, or performing a Yule log ceremony are some ideas.
5. Gift-Giving: Consider giving handmade or meaningful gifts. They can represent the spirit of giving and sharing during this time.
6. Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors, connecting with nature. Take walks or hikes, appreciate the beauty of winter, and acknowledge the changing seasons.
7. Community and Gatherings: Participate in community events, gatherings, or join groups celebrating Yule. Sharing traditions with others can be enriching. You may even try having a meal at a European style seating restaurant, meet new people!
8. Reflection and Intention Setting: Reflect on the past year and set intentions for the upcoming one. It’s a time for personal growth and renewal.
9. Music and Storytelling: Enjoy Yule-themed music, stories, and poems. They can add a wonderful touch and opportunity for connection with your chosen audience or participants to the celebrations.
10. Personal Practice: Engage in personal spiritual or religious practices that resonate with the essence of Yule. This of course is entirely up to you, the individual.

Yule was incorporated into Christianity when the Christian wave rolled across the Germanic regions. There’s more on Wikipedia and other sources if you are interested. 🙂

Remember, Yule celebrations can vary based on personal beliefs and traditions. Feel free to adapt these suggestions to suit your preferences and create a meaningful celebration. Merry Yuletide to you and yours.