An observable Truth
Winter Solstice Notes by Astrologer Rose Zimmerman
The Winter Solstice is a significant celestial event that marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. It holds great cultural and spiritual importance in various traditions around the world. People often gather to celebrate this special occasion and engage in rituals that symbolize rebirth, renewal, and the return of light.
During the Winter Solstice, the Earth's axis is tilted furthest away from the Sun, resulting in the Sun's lowest position in the sky. This astronomical phenomenon brings about the changing of seasons and the transition from darkness to light. During this time, nature slows down, creating a sense of stillness and introspection in the quiet.
Astrologer Rose Zimmerman has dedicated her work to studying the influence of celestial bodies on human life. In her Winter Solstice Notes, she provides insights into the astronomical significance of this event. She explores the zodiac and planetary alignments of the current time, offering a map of celestial delights.
Her notes serve as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of this celestial event and its impact on the collective energies. It offers a unique perspective that combines ancient wisdom with an astronomic art.
Whether you are an astrology enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about the mysteries of the universe, treat yourself to these seeds of light that provide profound insights into this magical time of the year.
“Walk to the well. Turn as the earth and the moon turn, circling what they love. Whatever circles comes from the center.”
Photos by Rose Zimmerman
Throughout the ages, the Sun, Moon, and Stars have served as a powerful symbol of unity for humanity. As we gaze upon the cosmic ocean we cannot help but feel a connection to our ancestors who also looked up at the same stars for all of known humanity. These ancient civilizations viewed the cosmos as the birthplace of all existence. Recording human history into the constancy of the stars and celestial movements was a natural occurrence, as if the stars themselves were the teachers and tellers of life's tales. The stars, with their immense age, have become guardians of these stories, preserving them for countless generations to come. It is truly remarkable to think that the average lifespan of a star spans far beyond our scope of time at 10 billion years. The stars are also the keepers of time, the patterns and cycles they create by means of calendars help us to track lifes apparent progressions. They hold within their eyes the stories of our past, present, and the future of our universe. How beautiful it is, to know that our grandchildren will gaze upon the same glistening shoes at night.
The patterns of the sky, as observed from earth, are not only a marvel to the eyes, but also an essential part of the cosmic rhythm that governs the natural cycles of time. The changing positions of the stars and celestial bodies have played a significant role in shaping the seasons that we live by. Throughout human history, the stars have remained a constant and unconquerable force of nature, serving as an integral component of our existence and our understanding of nature's clock. They have not only guided us in creating sophisticated calendars but have also played a crucial role in planning and agriculture, helping us determine the best time for planting, sowing, and harvesting. It is worth noting that geographic location matters, while the northern hemisphere is experiencing the arrival of winter, the southern hemisphere is currently stepping into the vibrant air of summer.
The Solar year turns somewhat dramatically on the day of the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere from growing darkness into growing light, a change of inward to outward energy may be felt as daylight begins to lengthen now.
The ancient Greeks had a unique way of celebrating the New Year that was connected to the earth. They chose to celebrate it on the winter solstice, which is the day when daylight hours start to lengthen. This particular time was believed to be very auspicious and symbolized the beginning of a new cycle or year, an opportunity to plant new seeds for the future to come. In India, and in the Hindu calendar, the date of the winter solstice marks Uttarayana, day time of the deviates ‘gods’, celebrated both today and on the Sun's sidereal entry into Capricorn in January. This celestial event represents the Sun's northerly journey around the ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun as traced through the stars. It's fascinating to see how different ancient cultures had their own ways of marking these times of transition throughout the year. For instance, some cultures celebrate the new year on the vernal equinox, which falls in the springtime. Both the winter solstice and the vernal equinox are significant moments that signify natural periods of growth and new beginnings.
On the 21st evening of December, if you look up at the night sky, you will notice an enchanting celestial sight. The pearlescent waxing Moon, in its beautiful quarter shape, is positioned right next to luminous Jupiter. These two celestial bodies can be found in the constellation of Aries, much brighter than the somewhat dimly lit stars of Aries.
As your eyes wander across the sky, you will also notice the very bright and prominent asterisms of Taurus, including the twinkling Pleiades sisters and the striking red giant Aldebaran, often referred to as the "red eye" of Taurus the bull. These stellar formations are some of the brightest in the whole night sky.
Now, here's a fun fact to enhance your stargazing experience. Have you ever wondered how to distinguish between planets and stars? One way to tell them apart is by observing their subtle differences in light. Unlike stars, planets like Jupiter do not twinkle. Instead, their light remains steady and unwavering, providing a reliable point of reference amidst the twinkling stars. Keep your sights and spirits high towards the heavens tonight, and the vastness of the universe will bloom for you.
