Getting Into the Mood of Yule

Perhaps you have decorated to “get into the mood” of Yule. Shopped a little too, but something, still isn’t quite cutting it. Read on for some tips to enhance the reason for the season and celebration of Yule.

The Longest Night of the Year

So, let’s face it. This year has been a bit challenging for most of us. We have had to change routines, work, shopping and so much more. The energy of the world is dark and so is the longest night of the year, the Winter’s Solstice or Yule. The bright side to this, is that after the longest night of the year, the light begins to return. This makes way for hope and promise of a new and better year. It is the return of the Sun God and/or Oak King. Now a birth is always a reason for a celebration.

Things to do

1. Yule Log: bring in a small log from your yard or woods. One that has recently fallen is perfect. Heat in a low temp (220 or lower) oven for about 3-4 hours to remove any bugs or insects taking a nap or leave in a large, sealed plastic bag in the sun for about a week. Once this step is done, decorate with dried flowers and adornments. Make this a special centerpiece for your table or mantle.
2. Blessing Ball: Click the link for complete directions from a previous post. These are wonderful additions to your yule tree. Place within your intention for the upcoming year.
3. Orange Pomander Balls: These were a favorite back in the days. The would symbolize health and ward off harm. Basically you take m orange and fasten a ribbon with whole cloves pushed into the skin. This adds a  beautiful aroma to your home and is sure to lift spirits and moods.

Book for your Yule Reading Pleasure

There are many books that are on or include the topic of Yule. Within the pages of these books you can surely find some ideas as well as folklore and history.

Yule: Rituals, Recipes and Lore for the Winter Solstice

Author, Susan “Moonwriter” Pesznecker shares her experiences and traditions of Yule in this little book. History and rituals help to add to the “mood” of the season.

Llewellyn’s Little Book of Yule

You may recognize this author from the Patheos blog “Raise the Horns” but Jason Mankey has quite a few books under his pen including this one.  One of my favorite books on the subject. You will find tips, history and so much more to make your Yule enchanting and memorable.

The Old Magic of Christmas: Yuletide Traditions for the Darkest Days of the Year

Linda Raedisch writes and enticing book that takes a look at old yuletide traditions.  This book is loaded with history, folklore and much enchantment. She writes about the ghosts and elf behaviors of the season. This book is not the run of the mill and definitely worth checking out.

Yule: A Celebration of Light and Warmth

First off, let me just say, Dorothy Morrison is one of my most favorite authors. Her knowledge and sense of humor just delights me. This is an older book on the topic of Yule but you find just as much valuable information, recipes and traditions as the above mentioned but Dorothy style.

Now that you have a jumpstart of ideas, get moving. Bring in that holiday cheer and have a Merry Yule!