Sky-watchers and believers in magic are in for a treat today, December 21st. Not only will we be experiencing the Winter Solstice, but also an incredibly rare event that hasn’t occurred for the past 800 years–The Great Conjunction.
These rare and magical solar events may have the ability to jumpstart a year of personal wellness, growth, and self-care — but will need some positive energy and manifestation on your part to truly make a difference.
The Winter Solstice occurs twice yearly, once in each hemisphere. It is both the longest night of the year and the shortest period of daylight. For those who believe in the occult, the Winter Solstice is said to have long-standing magical properties, largely due to an emphasis on the sun’s perceived renewal and rebirth. Many people argue that this specific day is the most beneficial time of the year for occult practices such as tarot…so, if you’re into that, this is the moment!
The Winter Solstice also brings people together to celebrate all things natural and unknown. Fire and light are the traditional symbols for this day. Since it is the darkest day of the year, lighting a fire in a fire pit, eating grounding foods such as root vegetables and nuts and writing your wishes down in a journal or a piece of paper can set your intentions and may get you on the right path for year-long success.
In terms of the Great Conjunction, which makes this day all the more rare, prepare to see something aptly titled the “Christmas Star.” The Christmas Star is an especially vibrant planetary conjunction, involving gas giants Jupiter and Saturn, which will be easily visible in the evening sky over the next two weeks.
What makes all of this so special? It’s been nearly 400 years since the planets passed this closely to each other in the sky, even though they’re still millions of miles apart in space. It’s been nearly 800 years since the alignment of Saturn and Jupiter occurred at night, as it will for 2020, allowing nearly everyone around the world to witness this “great conjunction.” The best way to spot it is by looking toward the Southwest after sunset. No need for fancy telescopes or binoculars, this one can be seen by the naked eye alone.
While looking at The Great Conjunction and celebrating the Winter Solstice, think about all of the things you would like to achieve in the coming year and beyond. Don’t limit yourself either! If you believe hard enough, the planets and stars may help you, too.