Yule is a 12-day winter celebration, starting on the Winter Solstice (although the start date/time of this event may vary) time of darkness turning into light, embodying themes of renewal and hope.
The 12 days are split into four celebrations of three days each, celebrating the three ages of the goddess (maid, mother, crone) and the rebirth of the god. It's a time of reviewing the past, planning for the future, and celebrating life in the cold and darkness. The colors of Yule are white, symbolizing snow and purity; red for energy; green for renewal; blue for the crisp winter sky, reflecting serenity and introspection; gold and silver, bringing in the bling and celebrating the return of the sun.
The scents of Yule are pine, bringing in the crisp, clean scent of evergreen forests into the home; peppermint that Invigorates and refreshes, like a brisk winter breeze; myrrh, which encourages reflection and spiritual connection; cedar, which is grounding and comforting;
cinnamon and clove, the warm feeling of family and love.
The symbols of the holiday include the Yule log, bringing light, warmth to the longest night of the year; the evergreen wreath, represents eternal life and the enduring spirit; snowflakes, symbolizing the beauty of individuality and change; candles, whose light is a tribute to the sun’s return after the longest night and the Wheel of the Year, a reminder that everything keeps rolling. Yule plants include holly, symbolizing protection and the enduring life force; mistletoe, representing peace, love, and the continuation of life; ivy, a sign of resilience and clinging to life and light in the darkest times, poinsettia: The bright red color of the Poinsettia’s bracts is reminiscent of the sun, a key symbol of the Winter Solstice.
Yule customs are replete with delicious, hearty foods. Traditional fare includes Yule ham, gingerbread, mulled wine, roast goose, and spiced cakes, biscuits, and, of course, the Yule log cake.
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