Category: winter solstice

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The gods and goddesses of Winter to work with as the snow falls and nature rests

As the snow begin to fall and the air becomes bitter and harshly cold, the festivals like, Yule, the new year, and Lupercalia it beckons us into it’s embrace of introspection, silence, and prepping for new beginnings to blossom in the Spring. During these festivals its common for many witches and pagans to work with and celebrate deities that connect to and represent the energies central to the introspective and transitional celebrations. I do! This season for me is a very feminine one. I hardly ever have gods and the divine masculine calling out to me now. This a season when I want to go into the womb of mother Earth. When the dark goddess and her healing, justice, empowerment, harsh clarity on reality, magic, and darkness beckons me to sit in her embrace. To listen to the past, root myself in introspection, and hear the healing whispers from my womb in the stillness and silence of winter. During this month a few deities take center stage because they have festivals or sacred days during this month to help you connect with them in a very intimate way. This season and it’s celebrations are full of magic, fertility, purification, introspection and there are many gods and goddesses who embody its transitional, silent, and restful energy. Winter season specifically the months of December, January, and February is a really important time in pagan culture and there are plenty of chilly gods and goddesses to work with or worship, depending on your practice, festivals, and celebrations. Let’s take a walk through the Winter landscape blanketed with snow and frozen waterways. To take the time to pause, reflect, and truly connect to the cyclical rhythm of nature while we meet SOME of those deities together in this post today.

Skaði (Skadi / Skathi) – Norse goddess

Skaði is a Norse goddess, often called the “Winter Queen,” associated with the mountains, hunting, skiing, and the wild, primarily known as a giantess (jötunn) who married the sea god Njörðr. Daughter of a fallen giant, Skadi walks the windswept mountains, a huntress sculpted from ice and legend. Her eyes, sharp as glaciers, scan the frozen realm. Bow in hand, she glides through the snow on swift skis, a predator born of the wilderness. Tales paint her as fierce, her spirit forged in the fires of vengeance and tempered by the unforgiving cold. She is mistress of the mountains, where the sun dances on glacial edges and the howl of the wolf echoes through empty valleys. But beneath the hardened exterior lies a yearning for connection. A goddess caught between two worlds – Asgard, home of the gods, and the wild embrace of the giants. Skadi’s place in Norse mythology is multifaceted and we see this as she is featured in stories with Odin, Loki, and Njordr among others. She’s even associated with snowshoes, and in later stories is said to have married Odin and bore him many children. She is the embodiment of both the untamed wild and a yearning for understanding. She is a warrior queen, a skilled hunter, and a goddess who walks the line between two worlds. Her story reminds us of the power of resilience in the face of loss, the importance of honoring our true nature, and the ever-present tension and duality between harmony and conflict.

Odin-Norse god

Odin is a Norse god who rules over wisdom, war, magic, and sovereignty. Odin is known by many many names. Wodan, Wotan, All Father, One-Eyed Seeker are but just a few. He is the ruler of the Aesir and steward of Asgard. In Germanic lore, it is said during Yule, which takes place during winter, he leads the Wild Hunt while being seated upon Sleipnirs back. This hunt is a spiritual parade of sorts that flies through the sky on Winter nights. Sometimes the Wild Hunt collects lost souls and sometimes a person joins the Wild Hunt in their sleep. In Nordic countries, the people gave sacrifices to Odin in the Winter months to ensure safety from them and prosperity. Including the children leaving hay in their boots by the hearth for Sleipnir to snack on as he flew by. Does this sound familiar to you at all? A white bearded old man, riding across the sky with a stead bringing blessings to those as he goes by? Many believe Odin is the actual inspiration for modern day Santa Claus? Check out my blog all about Santa HERE and decide for yourself.

Kuraokami

Kuraokami is a legendary Japanese dragon and Shinto deity of rain and snow. The name Kuraokami translates to “Ravine Rain Serpent. Kuraokami is said to have been created from the blood of Kagutsuchi, the fire deity. In some versions of the myths surrounding Kuraokami, Watatsumi, and Mizuhanome, Izanami created them to tame Kagutsuchi’s fire if he ever got out of control.

Hestia– Greek goddess

The next deity I want to talk about I personally feel is overlooked far too often especially during the cold winter months. This season is the time of year that solidifies us in the bitter cold and harshness of nature. Which means we need warmth and heat for us to survive and thrive. Which is why I always feel pulled to her during this time. Especially living in Minnesota I need her to bless my hearth with continuous heat during the long winter months. Not only that, but she can make your home extra cozy during this month while you spend more quality time alone. Hestia is the sole attendant to the celestial hearth of the gods. As the goddess of the hearth, she personified the fire burning in the hearths of every home in Greece. On a very tangible level, Hestia rules the domain of fire. This means that she is directly responsible, at least according to the Greeks, for the fire, the stove, and the heat in your home. Honoring her during the winter season, when the harsh chill solidifies itself in our bones is a great idea right now. She will bless your hearth as she stokes and fuels the flames all winter long. Don’t forget all month long to present her and your hearth with the first offering sacrificed to keep those flames burning strong.

Boreas-Greek God
Boreas is the Greek God of the North wind, winter and ice. He’s also known as The Devouring One. He is the spirit of Winter and can be both violent and benevolent. Depending on the person and situation. The Greeks believed he came from the North, being the North Wind, and because of this was considered Thracian in origin. He is often depicted as a powerful, bearded man with wings, with two faces – one in front and one in back. He is the son of the Titan Astraeus and Eos, the goddess of the dawn, and brother to Zephyrus (the West Wind) and Notus (the South Wind). He is said to be the one who brings cold winter weather and is known for his violent temper, most famously abducting the Athenian princess Oreithyia to become his wife.

Brigid

The next deity I am going to talk about is because she takes central stage during Imbolc the festival that marks the midwinter point. A Goddess in Irish tradition, Brigid is one of the most well-known because, she is the Goddess of fertility and spring. To many she is also known as the Great Mother Goddess of Ireland, and to Christians as a Saint Brigid. With this energy, Brigid brings the remembrance of our Oneness and of the Eternal Essence of the Divine Feminine. She is the daughter of the Celtic God Dagda, a Fae leader of the Tuatha dè Danann.She’s often depicted with fiery hair and a sunbeam cloak. She was born at sunrise with rays of sunlight radiating around her head. She is associated with many things; Poetry, Healing, Midwinter/Imbolc, Flames/fire, Fertility, and Motherhood.

Brigid is considered a Triple Goddess, yet many references distinguish Brigit differently than the traditional Triple Goddess aspects of Maiden, Mother and Crone. Rather Brigid is frequently referenced having three sister selves with three distinct roles, Lady of Healing Waters, Goddess of the Sacred Flame and Goddess of the Fertile Earth.

Callieach

Cailleach stands as a prominent figure in Celtic mythology, embodying the essence of wisdom, transformation, and the cycles of nature. Her presence is deeply rooted in the folklore and traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man.. Since, the ancient Celts celebrated two seasons only, her reign bringing cold all over the land began on Samhain and ended with Ostara/spring when she handed it back to Brigid. On Imbolc which is the first of February, Cailleach, the Goddess of Winter, heads out into the world to gather firewood to keep her warm for the rest of winter. If the weather is bright and sunny, Cailleach is out gathering the wood and will be able to gather enough to make winter last a good bit longer. However, if the weather is bad and cold, Cailleach is still asleep and will soon run out of firewood, and spring will come sooner.

Cailleach is often depicted as a powerful, crone-like figure who embodies the harshness and stillness of winter. When she appears to me she also has a blue aurora about her, and her mythical staff in hand. This staff is said to have mystical powers for when she slams it on the ground winter will freeze all the land. She represents the embodiment of winter, sovereignty, and the primal forces of the natural world. As the guardian of the cold, she is said to control the storms, the winds, and the snow that blanket the earth during the winter months. She is a symbol of death and decay but also of transformation and the wisdom that comes with age and experience. While Brigid heralds the coming of spring and new life, Cailleach represents the slowing down and rest that winter brings, urging us to pause and reflect. On Imbolc, Cailleach’s presence is especially poignant as it marks the shift from the deep, inward-focused energies of winter toward the budding life of spring. Cailleach holds the power to either prolong winter or usher in the first signs of spring, depending on whether she decides to create a fierce storm or allow the warmth to return.

If you really want to learn more about her and read my personal experiences with her this winter come join the alchemist paid tier of the Patreon community or higher and get access to my anthology all about her.

Baba Yaga

The next goddess we have gives me a very similar energy and feel when I work with her as the goddess we just talked about above; Calileach. To modern witches and Slavic pagans, Baba Yaga is a witch goddess who lives deep in a birch forest moving from place to place among the trees in her hut she calls home on top of giant chicken legs. From time to time when she needs to gather more supplies you might catch a glimpse of her flying by up in the sky from her magical mortar and pestle. She’s a wild and untamed old woman, often seen as a hag or crone, but can transform herself into a beautiful woman to manipulate or trick someone if she desires. Baba Yaga is a goddess of wisdom, healing, transformation, death, rebirth, renewal and autumn/winter. When healing is needed, whether it’s from colds/flu or emotional healing, Baba Yaga can offer healing often in the form of herbal teas brewed by herself. Calling on her during this Winter season can lead you through the forest now frozen and blanketed in snow, to her skull fenced lined home. To peer into the darkness of her cauldron and gain the most ancient wisdom from the darkness of the cosmos that she guards. To learn more about her you can read my previous post here.

Morena

In Bohemia and Moravia, the goddess of winter, death and dreams is Morana, who covers the fields in a funeral shroud of ice and snow. She reigns from the winter solstice to the spring equinox. Then Vesna, the goddess of spring and rebirth, takes over. Morena is a Slavic goddess of winter, death, and rebirth. She is also known by many other names, including Marzanna, Mara, Morana, and Marena. She is feared as the bringer of its chill in most areas. This is only amplified by her connection to the Zmora/Mora/Kikimora – a demon of nightmares. She is sometimes pictured in a form similar to those demons.

The most popular myth involving her is that of her marriage with Jaryło/Yarilo/Gerovit – her twin brother and a spring, war, and agriculture god. It was said that she was a daughter of Perun, god of thunder, and Mokosz/Mokosh, the Great Mother. In this story, she was once a nature goddess. When she was young, Jaryło was stolen by the god Weles and taken to the underworld of Nawia/Nav. When he returned, the twins did not know they were related, so they fell in love and were married. This marriage between Morena’s nature and Jaryło’s agriculture brought balance in nature and also peace (temporarily) between Perun and Weles. But then Jaryło committed adultery. So, she killed him for his betrayal, turning her bitter and making her the winter deity we know today. This split is the reason for the seasons, as Morena kills Jaryło in autumn, and he along with a spring goddess (usually either Dziewanna or Żywia/Vesna) kills her in the spring. The cycle continues annually, and neither can exist for long while the other survives.

This story shows a bit of tragedy that is often lacking in many mythological stories. While Maorena is feared, she has a human element of desiring revenge and having her heart broken. An important note is that most gods in Slavic mythology had a fear and a worship element to them. Morena is feared for the death and disease she brings, but she is also a crucial part of the world’s cycle.

La befana

The next deity or as some call her a folklore legend we are going to talk about it la befana. She is a grandmotherly woman who resembles a kindly witch that is connected to Christmas. She brings gifts to good little children, depositing them in stockings hung above the hearth. Some even claim she sweeps the floor before she leaves as a symbol to sweep away the previous year’s problems. Even though she has roots all the way back to ancient Roman festivals, she is most well known for her role in Christian stories and legends. I personally believe this is because the church needed a much more acceptable and tamer version of the Germanic winter witch Berchta.

In Italian folklore and legend La befana delivers gifts to children throughout Italy on Epiphany Eve (the night of January 5) in a similar way to Santa Claus or the Three Magi. Another Christian legend takes a slightly darker tone as La Befana was an ordinary woman with a child whom she greatly loved. However, her child died, and her resulting grief maddened her. Upon hearing news of Jesus being born, she set out to see him, delusional that he was her son. She eventually met Jesus and presented him with gifts to make him happy. The infant Jesus was delighted, and he gave La Befana a gift in return; she would be the mother of every child in Italy.

Nanook

This next deity comes to us from Inuit Mythology. In Inuit religious beliefs, Nanook (the Polar Bear) is the master of bears. He is the one who decides if a hunter is worthy of their kill and whether or not they will be successful. Revered for his strength and wisdom, Nanook symbolizes the profound connection between the Inuit and their natural environment. As a spiritual leader, Nanook not only embodies the qualities necessary for survival in this harsh terrain but also represents the delicate balance between humans and nature in Inuit belief. In Inuit mythology, Nanook is not just an individual deity but an integral part of the pantheon’s familial structure. Revered as a father figure, Nanook is said to have many cubs, each inheriting his strength and resilience. His companion, Sedna, goddess of the sea and marine life, complements Nanook’s domain over land and ice by ruling the ocean depths. Together, they embody the harmonious balance of the Arctic environment, where land and sea intertwine in a crucial interplay of survival and sustenance.

Nanook, a powerful deity in Inuit mythology, exerts profound influence over the Arctic environment through various domains. Known as the master of bears, Nanook controls the movements and availability of bears, crucial for successful hunts where hunters perform rituals and offerings to appease him. Beyond land, Nanook extends his sway over the Arctic seas, believed to calm or stir waters that affect the hunt for seals and walruses. Legends attribute Nanook with control over Arctic weather, where blizzards and storms are seen as expressions of his will or a test for hunters. In the realm of the afterlife, Nanook plays a role in Inuit beliefs, with the souls of hunted bears returning to him, potentially to be reborn or serve as spirit guides.

Pertcha

The next deity I am going to talk about many only consider her to be a folklore legend similar to La befena. While Krampus gets most of the attention during this time of the year as the terrifying side of the holiday season Pertcha is just as terrifying. If not more so in my eyes. In the Alps of Upper Germany, Austria, and Slovenia, you will find stories of Perchta, a goddess connected to Winter and snow. Sources say she has two different appearances: a beautiful woman as white as snow or as elderly and haggard woman. As the crone she is often depicted with a beaked nose made of iron, dressed in rags, perhaps carrying a cane, and generally resembles a decrepit old crone. But this old crone packs a mighty wallop…. and carries a long knife hidden under her skirt. She is said to roam the countryside during the twelve days between Christmas and Epiphany to enter the houses of those she encountered. If your house is neat and tidy and all your spinning for the winter season was done by the twelfth night she would leave you a silver coin. If it wasn’t well…there are many stories of what she would do to you some involving that knife under her skirt even. Some stories say she may slit your belly open, rip out your innards, and stuff you with straw, rocks, and bits of glass. She also disembowels lazy children. Other legends equate Frau Perchta with the legend of the Wild Hunt, and say that she flies through the night sky attended by an army of lost souls, including the demonic-looking Perchten, her army of servants who are visually nearly indistinguishable from Krampus.

Tengliu

Tengliu,is a Goddess of Snow in Chinese mythology. In Chinese mythology, Tengliu is the goddess of winter. She is said to live in the Kunlun Mountains, where she controls the weather. Tengliu first appeared in the Tang dynasty and later became a popular cultural figure in the Ming dynasty through the development in the Song dynasty. Other then her appearance in many songs throughout the Song dynasty not much else is really known about her.

Yuki-onna

Yuki-onna is a Japanese deity or really a spirit associated with winter and snowstorms. I say this because, she isn’t referenced too as a Kami but, instead usually as a yokai. She is also known as the snow woman. In some legends, Yuki-onna is a manifestation of winter, representing its harshness. Some legends say the Yuki-onna, being associated with winter and snowstorms, is the spirit of someone who perished in the snow. She is at the same time beautiful and serene, yet ruthless in killing unsuspecting mortals. In some stories, Yuki-onna is vengeful and freezes travelers with her icy breath. In other stories, she is kind and helps people in the mountains. She personifies the duality and contrast of Winter. Showing us the harness, bitterness, and coldness of the season. Along with highlighting the peacefulness, beauty, ands stillness of the season.

Aphrodite

The last deity I am going to talk about I think far too many forget is connected to winter. I feel this happens because, too many forget Valentine’s day in February is right in the middle of Winter. In Greek mythology, Aphrodite is the goddess of love, beauty, and desire. She is also associated with sexuality, fertility, and pleasure. While best known as the goddess of love, she was also the ancient Greek goddess of fertility, physical pleasure (particularly sexual), eternal youth, grace, and beauty. Additionally, she played roles in commerce, war, and politics. Plus let’s not forget her crucial role, as one of the causes of the Trojan War. Her origins though, are shrouded in mystery. According to Hesiod’s Theogony, she emerged from the sea foam in the waters of Paphos, on the island of Cyprus, born from the severed genitals of Uranus. She supposedly arose from the foam when the Titan Cronus slew his father Uranus and threw his genitals into the sea. However, according to Homer, in Iliad, Aphrodite may instead be the daughter of Zeus and Dione.

Call on her this Winter season to work with the energy of love and deepening your connection to others. Don’t forget to reflect on your relationships as well and find love with those you can. Especially if you are forced into a situation just as she was. Remember, Aphrodite is about so much more than love, beauty and lust though. You can always call on her for those reasons but, Aphrodite is about the passion of creation. Which is why she can be called on for creative expression, and living your passion. She is a great goddess to use for self love, emotional balance and healing as well.

How to connect to and work with these deities

Everyone’s relationship with deities is different and we all work with and believe in them differently. You might believe in multiple gods and goddesses and work with them each as though they are close, personal friends. Or maybe you believe the gods are reflections of Universal energy and simply archetype energies that you can learn a lesson from. However you incorporate deities in your practice is up to you. But here are some ideas to get you started on ways to work with any or all of these deities of the Winter. Remember; it’s important to approach them with respect, reverence, gratitude and by building a relationship with them. Every time you work with a deity it is an even energetic exchange; which means what you put into your intention when working with them and building your relationship to them is what you get back. Don’t forget to check out my shop and for an eBook to help you explore how you view deities more and you can also purchase my deep deity devotionals workshop course HERE!

  • Research, study and read about who they are, where they come from, and their myths and legends
  • Refresh your altar and add any of them to it. Or create a new one. Use any of the correspondences connected to them that speak to you
  • Cast spells to help with personal transition or transformation allowing the deities of the transitional season to guide you through the process
  • Call on them to assist you with different types of divination like, tarot, pendulum readings, runes, fire scrying or cryomancy
  • Use their correspondences and energies in protection spells especially for ones for your home
  • Create a spell jar for them and add them to your altars or place them somewhere in your home
  • Shadow work focusing on inner work, the cold, resilience, strength, and resting.  If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.
  • Invite them to your circle and castings when performing rituals tied to the cycles of nature
  • Include them in your celebrations for any festivals like Yule, the new year, Lupercalia, and Valentine’s day
  • Use snow and ice magic
  • Go on a mindful walk in nature to connect to the energies of the land the winter deities rule
  • Invoke their name when creating simmer pots to cleanse and purify your home from unwanted energies
  • Herbal magic-brew teas especially, or add herbs to your hot drinks
  • Carve their sigils into candles for fire magic for release work and to keep your home warm and your hearth lit during the cold dark winter months
  • Purification and cleansing rituals and spells using snow and ice
  • carving their sigils into the ice for binding and banishing spells
  • Make some rose water and use in your spells and leave as offerings for deities
  • Use oil with their correspondences and blessed with their prayers in self love rituals
  • Bake treats and add their sigils to them for love, family, and relationships
  • Give them offerings they enjoy for manifestation and building a relationship
  • Add their sigils and correspondences like herbs to spell bags, talismans, and charms
  • Leave them offerings of milk to connect to fertility, abundance, and prosperity during winter
  • carve their sigils into your fire wood before you burn it in your hearth to welcome them into your home and bring you blessings
  • invoke them during your commitment ceremonies
  • Draw their sigils on your mirror before doing mirror magic and/or mirror work
  • Use their prayers during sex magic rituals and spells
  • Ask them to join you on astral travels, meditations, and inner healing work sessions
  • Wear their colors during the day and use color magic to connect to them
  • Journal about signs you in your life during your days that are connected to them
  • Use their images as inspiration in glamor and beauty spells
  • Divination like fire gazing, snow scrying, melt snow and use the water in scrying, or Cryomancy
  • create Brigid’s crosses for Imbolc
  • Add their sigils, names, correspondences, and images to your holiday and festival celebrations
  • leave a plate and place for them at your festival dinners so they can join you
  • meditate as the snow falls and listen for their words of wisdom and them call to you
  • call to them in prayers to ignite and guide your creativity in creativity spells
  • Volunteer and serve at places in your community that align with deities you wish to work with this season
  • Use their sigils on your spells to help aid in your rest during winter
  • go on a shamanic journey with their animal companions to connect with them
  • invoke them, use their prayers, use their correspondences, or sigils to bless your magical tools
  • daily prayers, affirmations, poems, or songs to honor and venerate them
  • Live your life in accordance with their own personal philosophies and energies
  • Make them part of your new year goals and resolutions
  • If possible take a trip or spend your vacation at places sacred to them like their temples or countries of origin
  • add their images, symbols, and sigils to your gift wrappings or Valentine’s cards
  • wear jewelry with their image, symbol, name, or sigil on it
  • draw or tattoo their sigils onto your body
  • Perform a dedication rite or ritual to dedicate yourself to them during their season and most potent time of the year
Don’t forget to check out my 9 spells for an enchanting and magical Valentine’s day post!

A fundamental pillar of Paganism is working with the deities that one believes in. While all practicing Pagans have varying beliefs about the gods and goddesses, most agree that honoring their deities is a great way to connect with them and further their spiritual goals. But, again remember not every pagan works with deities. Also remember there are literally thousands of different deities out there in the multiverse and which ones you choose to honor will often depend significantly upon what pantheon your spiritual path follows. This eBook will walk you thru the different ways to view deities, what a deity can be, and the basics to start building a deep meaningful relationship with one.

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Santa; Who he is and how to work with him this Christmas

Santa Claus, a beloved symbol of the holiday season, and one of the most well known mythical beings today. He has captured the hearts of people around the world. But who is Santa Claus? Santa Claus hasn’t always been the jolly, red-suited, rotund, grandfatherly gift-giver with a reindeer-drawn sleigh we all know and love. Depictions of Santa have evolved over time, influenced by stories and legends about St. Nicholas, Sinterklaas, and Father Christmas, and perpetuated by centuries of gift cards, stories, advertisements, posters, and movies. Let’s sled into the glittering, snow covered, mythical roots and global legacy of Santa Claus together in this blogpost and article.

Who is Santa?

To most Santa, is the jolly old man of winter, who has been bringing cheer and joy to the world for centuries. From the North Pole, he sets off each year on a magical journey, spreading happiness and gifts to the young and old alike. Santa is a radical optimist with a big heart. He sets his sights on not only his biggest dream but, those of every small child on Earth. He does this and trusts that it will all work out just fine year after year. His idealism is matched by his unstoppable energy and passion to get so much done all for the joy of everyone else. He is encouraging, loving, and supportive of children’s wishes. While the looming threat of a coal-stained stocking is still there encouraging them to behave. Santa is the joy and comfort and motivating them with love and encouragement. His friendly nature, open mind, and energetic spirit help make the holiday season the joyful time it is while reminding us of the importance to give.

Other names for Santa

  • Saint Nicholas
  • Saint Nick
  • Father Christmas
  • Kris Kringle
  • Sinterklaas
  • Odin

What does Santa look like?

Santa is generally depicted as a pot bellied, jolly, white-bearded, grandfatherly man, often with spectacles, wearing a red coat with white fur collar and cuffs, white-fur-cuffed red trousers, a red hat trimmed with white fur, a black leather belt and boots, carrying a bag full of gifts for children. In many of the depictions now, we also see him in his reindeer drawn sleigh flying across the winter night skies. This modern image of Santa Claus most us know now was influenced by Clement Clark Moore’s 1822 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” and the illustrations of Haddon Sundblom for The Coca-Cola Company. But, NO Coca-Cola does not OWN the image of Santa exclusively nor did they create him. Let’s talk about where his ancient and many origins and possible influences actually do come from next.

Santa as Odin

Although Santa Claus is primarily based upon St. Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian bishop from Lycia (now in Turkey)which we will talk about next. The oldest origin of Santa I can find goes as far back as 2 b.c.e., and is also strongly influenced by the white bearded, old man, flying across the sky on an 8 legged steer during winter time; the Norse all father Odin. Already doesn’t that sound familiar? Not only do they look similar but, quite a few of their legends and myths are similar as well. Let’s talk about them below!

  • Let’s start with their steeds. Many believe Odin may be where Santa gets his reindeer inspiration from. Since, Odin was often depicted as leading a hunting party through the skies ( the wild hunt), during which he rode his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir.
  • Next, during the winter solstice when the wild hunt would roar across the skies, the Norse and Germanic children placed their boots near the chimney, filling them with carrots or straw as a gift for Sleipnir. Quite similar to children doing the same for Santa’s reindeer today or leaving our milk and cookies for Santa Claus. Plus some believe this may even be where the tradition to hang stockings above the fireplace comes from.
  • Lastly, with the wild hunt coming by one way to protect would be wassailing or singing songs to Odin when going from door to door or in orchards. Sound familiar again? It’s quite common to go caroling welcoming Santa on Christmas night.

Santa and Saint Nicholas

Many elements of Santa Claus, especially his reputation as a secret giver of gifts, can originate back to Saint Nicholas, a real historical figure and human being that walked this realm.

The name Santa Claus, which was first used in 1773, is a variant on Sinterklaas, the Dutch name for Saint Nicholas. ( we will talk about him later) He was known in his own lifetime as Nikolaos of Myra. Nikolaos was born on March 15, 270 AD, to a well-off Christian Greek family living in a region of the Roman Empire that is part of modern Turkey. While historians and scholars don’t agree on all parts of his biography, he was definitely a bishop who is best known for his role in the First Council of Nicaea. He was known for his deep generosity as well, with some believing he gave away his entire inheritance left to him by his wealthy Christian Greek parents when they died during an epidemic. It’s said he did this believing it was the way Jesus truly wanted us to live. He also was known for giving generous gifts in secret. Supposedly, Nikolaos would throw toys into children’s windows and leave coins in their shoes.

Nicholas who was later elevated to a saint is said to have lived a life of prayer, generosity, and fought in strong defense of the Christian faith in the name of the Catholic church. He was even imprimisoned by the Roman emperor Diocletian around the year 300. Some even consider him a martyr when he died around the year 343. Within a century of his death he was elevated to Sainthood and celebrated as a saint. Today he is venerated in the East as wonder, or miracle worker and in the West as patron of a great variety of persons-children, mariners, bankers, pawn-brokers, scholars, orphans, laborers, travelers, merchants, judges, paupers, marriageable maidens, students, children, sailors, victims of judicial mistakes, captives, perfumers, even thieves and murderers! He is known as the friend and protector of all in trouble or need. Some connect him solely to Christianity and the Roman Catholic Church, while others see him more as an ascended master and universal energy.

Myths of Saint Nicholas

Saint Nicholas was known for being a very kind man and had a reputation for helping the poor and giving secret gifts to people who needed it. There are several legends about St. Nicholas, but kindness and generosity is a common theme among them all. He is also seen as patron and protector of many including the little children everywhere we hold so dear. First up, the most famous story about St. Nicholas some believe is another version of where we get the custom of hanging up stockings to put presents in first started! It goes like this:

There was a poor man in a small village who had three daughters. The man was so poor that he did not have enough money for a dowry, so his daughters couldn’t get married. (A dowry is a sum of money paid to the bridegroom by the bride’s parents on the wedding day. This still happens in some countries, even today.) One night, Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney and into the house . this meant that the oldest daughter was then able to be married. Unintentionally, the bag fell into a stocking that had been hung by the fire to dry. When the family woke and found the coins they were overjoyed and the oldest daughter was married off right away. But, the father wanted to know who it was he could thank. Soon, it was time for the second daughter to be wed. The same thing happened again with the second daughter. Again the family was thankful and the second daughter was married off with joyful hearts right away. Finally, determined to discover the person who had given him the money, the father secretly hid by the fire every evening until he caught Nicholas dropping in a bag of gold for his third daughter to be wed. Nicholas begged the man to not tell anyone what he had done, because he did not want to bring attention to himself. But of course the father did keep quiet and soon the news got out and when anyone received a secret gift, it was thought that maybe it was from Nicholas himself.

Another story tells of three theological students, traveling on their way to study in Athens. A wicked innkeeper robbed and murdered them, hiding their remains in a large pickling tub. It so happened that Nicholas was traveling along the same route, and stopped at this very inn. (Synchronicity maybe?) In the night he dreamed of the crime, got up, and summoned the innkeeper to his room. Where he asked him about the incident, when the innkeeper denied anything Nick fell to his knees to begin to pray. As Nicholas prayed earnestly to God the three boys were restored to life no longer chopped into pieces even and fully whole. In France the story has a little bit of a different version. It is told about three small children instead of theological students. The three small children, were wandering around as they played until they got lost. Then as they were stumbling around trying to find their way they were lured, and captured by an evil butcher. St. Nicholas appears suddenly, finding the boys bodies sealed in barrels . He then appeals to God to return them to life and to their families, which he does.

One of the oldest stories showing St. Nicholas as a protector of children takes place long after his death. The townspeople of Myra were celebrating the good saint on the eve of his feast day when a band of Arab pirates from Crete came into the district. They stole treasures from the Church of Saint Nicholas and left to bring them back to their ship as booty. As they were leaving town, they snatched a young boy, Basilios, to make into a slave as well. The emir, or ruler, selected Basilios to be his personal cupbearer. So, for the next year Basilios waited on the king, bringing his wine in a beautiful golden cup. During this entire time Basilios’ parents, devastated at the loss of their only child spent filled with grief. As the next St. Nicholas’ feast day approached, Basilios’ mother decided she would not join in the festivity, as it was now the year mark of a day of tragedy. However, she was persuaded to have a simple observance at home—with quiet prayers for Basilios’ safekeeping. Meanwhile, at the same time Basilios was fulfilling his tasks serving the emir, when all of a sudden he whisked up and away. St. Nicholas appeared to the terrified boy, blessed him, and set him down at his home back in Myra. This is known as the first story told of St. Nicholas protecting children.

Patron of Sailors

Several stories tell of Nicholas and the sea. When he was young, Nicholas sought the holy and to be close to the divine by making a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. There as he walked where Jesus walked, he sought to more deeply connect to the experience of Jesus’ life, passion, and resurrection. Returning by sea, a mighty storm threatened to wreck the ship. Nicholas calmly prayed. The terrified sailors were amazed when the wind and waves suddenly calmed, sparing them all. Another legend argues that sailors on their way to the Holy Land were caught in a horrible storm and prayed to St. Nicholas. They then saw an image of him in the clouds and the storm ended. Either way, St. Nicholas is the patron of sailors, dockworkers, and others involved with the sea for this reason.

Saint Nicholas Day

Otherwise I have found places celebrating him on the eve of Saint Nicholas day during Krampusnacht while celebrating Krampus. This day is a holiday honoring the historical figure Saint Nicholas, a bishop known for his secret acts of generosity, particularly towards children in need. After his death in 343, it became traditional to observe Saint Nicholas’s Day on December 6 by giving gifts. People also often celebrate by leaving out shoes or stockings on the eve of the holiday to find small gifts like sweets, coins, or oranges inside, symbolizing the story of St. Nicholas leaving gold coins in the stockings of poor girls to help them get married we talked about above.

Other ways to celebrate

  • Attend a Saint Nicholas day parade if you can
  • Hang a socking over a mantle or place a boot in front of a fireplace and hearth
  • Give gifts to a an unmarried women- In Italy, children aren’t the only ones receiving gifts on Saint Nicholas’ Day, unmarried women make the list. Across Italy, unmarried women might attend a special mass on St. Nicholas’ Day to participate in Rito delle nubili, a ritual where they turn a column seven times to help change their luck in finding a spouse. This is because Saint Nick is also the Patron saint to protect virgins.
  • Host and have a Saint Nicholas day feast
  • Work with and celebrate Krampus his companion bring in another side to protection this holiday season.
  • Dress as a bishop: In Germany and Poland, boys traditionally dress as bishops and collect money for the poor
  • Study and read about Saint Nicholas’s life and myths
  • If you practice Christianity attend a church service
  • Be generous and give to others. You can do this by donating your things, time, or money. Hold a food or clothing drive. Volunteer your time to an organization or cause that means a lot to you.

Sinterklaas

Ways to celebrate Sinterklaas

Built around the image of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children, Sinterklass (the name resulting from the contraction of Sint Nikolaas) is a legendary Christmas figure celebrated and loved in the Netherlands. Although similar to Santa Claus in that he is an older man with a full, white beard who wears a red outfit, Sinterklass is a more serious figure, donning a bishop’s headdress and carrying a long, curled golden shepherd’s staff. The Dutch celebrate the Feast of Sinterklaas honoring the life of St. Nicholas. Sinterklaas arrives in the Netherlands by boat from Spain on December 5th, the eve of Saint Nicholas’ feast day. He rides a white horse and carries a book that tells him which children were good or bad that year. Sinterklaas brings gifts to good children, and sometimes a switch to bad children. The tradition of “putting your shoe” involves children leaving their shoes out for Sinterklaas to fill with gifts. After England conquered the city in the 17th century, Sinterklaas gradually became Santa Claus.

  • Read poems outloud
  • Sing songs
  • Attend a Parade in Holland that occurs annually on December 6th
  • A knock on the door at night, letting children open it to find a pile of gifts
  • Gift people with a “surprise”. The “surprise,” is a homemade gag gift that hides another present inside.
  • Participate in Secret Santa in your home, your work, or your school or kids school
  • Use kitchen magic to bake Sinterklaas deserts, baked goods, and candies
  • Leave shoes near your front door, hearth, or chimney

Santa and Christmas

We can’t talk about Santa whose influenced is heavily based on a Catholic Saint who followed Christianity without talking about Christmas. He is considered by many far and wide to be the traditional patron of Christmas especially in the United States and other countries. To those who celebrate Christmas he is a legendary figure who is widely recognized as the gift-giver on Christmas Eve, embodying the spirit of generosity and joy associated with the holiday.

So, what is Christmas in case you don’t practice Christianity or celebrate this holiday in your part of the world. Christmas is celebrated on the 25th of December. It is a holiday to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, who, according to the Christian religion, is the son of God. The name is a joining of “Christ” and “mass” which means the holy mass (supper, celebration or festival) of Christ. Christmas is a time to exchange gifts with family and friends. It’s also a time to give thanks for the love, hope, and joy found in Jesus. Many things that Christians do at Christmas come from earlier Pagan festivals like Saturnalia, the winter solstice, and Yule.

Father Christmas

Father Christmas is the traditional English name for the personification of Christmas. Although now known as a Christmas gift-bringer, and typically considered to be synonymous with Santa Claus, he was originally part of a much older and unrelated English folkloric tradition. Until Victorian times, Father Christmas was concerned with adult feasting and merry-making. He had no actual connection with children, or with the giving of presents, night time visits, stockings, chimneys or reindeer. But as later Victorian Christmases developed into child-centric family festivals, Father Christmas became a bringer of gifts. Then the popular American myth of Santa Claus arrived in England in the 1850s and Father Christmas started to take on Santa Claus’s attributes and often times the two are now referred to interchangeably.

Other Entities associated with Santa

We can’t talk about Santa without talking about the legion of mythical characters surrounding him and that even live in his home. He lives at the North Pole with not only his wife Mrs. Claus, but also his elves who make the toys, and his reindeer who pull his sleigh. Let’s explore the magic of each of these more next.

His Reindeer

I think almost every child spends Christmas night lying in bed listening for the magical hoofbeats of Santa’s reindeer landing up above. Santa’s reindeer are magical creatures that live at the North Pole and help Santa. On Christmas Eve, Santa and his reindeer embark on their most important mission of the year: delivering presents to all the children of the world in one night.They visit every house where there are children who believe in Santa Claus, regardless of their location, culture or religion.

The idea of Santa’s reindeer flying through the sky in a sleigh was popularized by Clement Clark Moore’s 1823 poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas. The imagery in the poem may have been influenced by Norse and Germanic mythology, where Thor, the God of Thunder, soared through the sky in a chariot pulled by two magical goats. It described how St Nicholas arrived on a sleigh pulled by eight reindeer named Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder (later changed to Donner) and Blitzen.

The most famous of the reindeer is Rudolph who was introduced in 1939 by Robert L May, an employee of Montgomery Ward department store. He wrote a story about a young reindeer who had a shiny red nose that glowed in the dark. In it, Rudolph was teased for being different by the other reindeer and then one foggy Christmas Eve, he was asked by Santa to lead the sleigh and help guide him in the night. Rudolph went on to be a hero – and accepted by his fellow reindeer. The story was printed as a booklet and distributed to millions of children as a promotional gift by the store. In 1949, May’s brother-in-law Johnny Marks wrote a song based on the story; Rudolph the red nosed reindeer, and it later became a hit record by Gene Autry.

Elves

In English-speaking cultures, Christmas elves are a huge part of the Christmas holiday. They live with Santa Claus at the North Pole and act as his helpers. In many of the songs, poems, and stories, Santa’s elves are often said to make the toys in Santa’s workshop and take care of his reindeer, among many other tasks. Christmas elves are usually depicted as green- or red-clad, with large, pointy ears and wearing pointy hats. They are most often depicted as humanoids, but sometimes as furry mammals with tails. They were first introduced in literature by Louisa May Alcott in 1856. The image of the elves in the workshop was popularized by Godey’s Lady’s Book, with a front cover illustration for its 1873 Christmas issue showing Santa surrounded by toys and elves. The origins of the elf are thought to have been derived from Norse mythology, which refers to the álfar, also known as huldufólk ‘hidden folk’ who are similar to the Celtic fae. The elf character is most likely to have been created from a combination of this Norse legend with the house spirits named brownies in Scottish mythology and legends.

Mrs. Claus

Mrs. Claus is the wife of Santa Claus. Her role and character traits vary, but she is generally depicted as a kind, nurturing, and a supportive partner who helps Santa manage the operations at the North Pole. This includes taking care of the elves, managing the toy production, and sometimes baking cookies. She is often portrayed as a maternal figure with a warm personality, enhancing the festive and family-oriented atmosphere of Christmas lore. Mrs. Claus has become an integral part of holiday traditions and stories, particularly in American and European Christmas culture. The first time that there is reference to Santa having a wife is not until in an 1848 short story called “The Christmas Legend” by a writer called James Rees. In the story, two elderly strangers, who turn out to be Mr and Mrs Claus, seek shelter at a house on a long journey. After Mrs Claus asks some questions, they find out that one of their daughters had died. The next morning, they wake to find a house full of presents.

Krampus

In the chilly shadows of European winter folklore (primarily Germanic), the figure of Krampus emerges, distinct with his horns, terrifying hairy body and sinister snarling face. Krampus is a terrifying winter devil who accompanies Saint Nicholas. Krampus punishes the naughty children with spankings, and sometimes his punishments are so severe he even drowns, eats, or carries them off to Hell. While St. Nicholas (St. Nikolaus in Germany) is famous for giving gifts and rewards to the righteous, it’s Krampus’s job to strike fear into the hearts of the wicked. To learn all about Krampus check out my previous blogpost here.

Santa and duality

Since I am a grey witch every single energy I work with I look at how it can help me maintain balance and how it can represent the cosmic energy of duality. Not gonna lie this was a hard one for a bit for me to be able to look into the spirit of Santa and see the duality. But, after some time working with him in the shadows of the holiday season I was finally able to understand the essence of duality he offers us to see. While Santa is a spirit of happiness and kindness, and he represents a loving feeling that comes from being together and doing kind things for each other. He is that reminder at the end of one year closing and a new one unfolding of how important sharing kindness with others is to not only us but, the collective as well. While that reminder can lead to some increased feeling of love , joy and community it can also cause guilt and point out our major flaws in society as well. We can feel guilty for what we do have that others don’t or we can feel guilty for not doing enough during the entire year. It can also show us just how harsh and lacking our world we live in can be to so many of those around us that we usually choose not to see. Lastly, he may make you feel lacking in abundance if you are in a circumstance in life where you aren’t able to give the gifts you’d like to those you love during this holiday season. Especially if you have little ones in your home.

Correspondences to connect with Santa

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be an archetype energy , or the zodiac energy the moon is currently, or like a figure like Santa, I will list below. Follow your intuition and use what speaks to you!

  • Animal-reindeer, polar bear, penguins, mice, goats, lambs, cows, donkeys, kangaroos
  • Planet- Jupiter & Saturn
  • Element-Water & Air
  • Sex-Masculine
  • Zodiac-Capricorn & Pisces
  • Symbol- Red suit and hat, Reindeer, Sleigh, bells, candy canes, wreaths, mistletoe, Christmas tree, stars, gifts, the north pole, stockings, boots, chimneys, coins, spirits, elves, snowflakes
  • colors-red, black, white, silver, gold
  • Themes- protection, Christmas, spirits/ghosts, kindness, children, family, fertility, transition, generosity, charity, reflection, motivation, magic, abundance, wishes, dreams, materialism
  • Herbs- willow leaves, tundra plants, mushrooms, rosemary, thyme, sage, ginger, frankincense, myrrh, cinnamon, lavender, horehound, pennyroyal, bedstraw, chamomile, sweet woodruff
  • Stones/ crystals-garnet, ruby, black tourmaline, obsidian, emerald, malachite, pyrite, gold, silver, coal, clear quartz, Amethyst, rose quartz,
  • Food-milk, cookies, carrots, hot cocoa, gingerbread, beer, rice pudding, breads, cheeses, salami, shepherds pie, dried fruit, deviled eggs

Ways to work with Santa

If after reading this blog post and learning all about the cheerful, and generous Santa. and you want to work with him this holiday season. Especially after learning he is actually based on a human being who either ascended or at the very least was elevated to Sainthood among the church. You can start by adding him to your holiday celebrations this year by celebrating any of the holidays he is associated with like Saint Nicholas day and Christmas. Next, simply work with him by performing acts of kindness that embody the spirit of giving like Santa does; essentially, bringing joy and generosity to others during the holiday season. Otherwise you can also try some of these things in your life and home below. Just remember when you are working with him just like with any other entity you need to do so from a place of reverence and respect.

Study, get to know him

As with every entity I have ever written about or taught about, The first way to get to know them specifically a being like Santa; is to study all you can about him. Look at the different versions of his origin, and how the catholic church paired him with Krampus. You can even, study the evolution of his history and how he shows up in different parts of the world. Plus don’t forget there are modern interpretations of him as well in movies, t.v. shows, poems, pieces of art and books you can look into. The more you study and learn the better! When working with any entity it is all about building a true relationship with them and you do this first by getting to know who they are.

Leave offerings out for him

Even though he is the embodiment of the spirit of gift giving, it doesn’t mean you can’t give him some gifts in gratitude as well. If you love getting gifts for all of your hard work and kindness from time to time why not do the same for Santa as well. They can even be seen as way for him to refuel and continue to be motivated on h is very busy and long night. Visiting each house around the world with children inside. Below you will see a list of some ideas for offerings you can leave for him on either Saint Nicholas day, Christmas eve night or Christmas day.

  • Cookies
  • Milk
  • Rice pudding
  • carrots
  • coins
  • grain mix/straw
  • stockings
  • Glass of sherry or other alcohol
  • Porridge
  • Mince pie
  • gingerbread
  • poems or drawings

Gift giving

Don’t just give Santa gifts in the form of offerings but, do it for others as well. Really embody the main spirit of Santa by giving gifts to others. So, spread cheer, joy, and kindness to others by giving gifts to your loved ones that come from the heart, thought went into them, and they are special, You can even hand out random gifts to strangers, make gift bags to donate to a shelter, or participate in a secret Santa at your work.

Volunteer your time, or donate money and things to those in need

Even though the gift giving part of Santa is full of joy and holiday cheer. The core of Santa and the energy he embodies is the importance of being generous and kind to those in need. So, one of the best ways to work with Santa is to volunteer or participate in activities that spread Christmas cheer. Some ways to do this could be helping with charity drives, organizing toy drives, volunteering at a local shelter or charitable organization, be part of a meal train, visit a nursing home, or pay off a random strangers bill or tab. Just make sure you are simply performing acts of kindness that embody the spirit of giving like Santa does; essentially, bringing joy and generosity to others during the holiday season.

Do things that help and protect children

Another core element to Santa and who he is; is being the patron protective saint of children. Another way to connect to him and work with him i s by doing things that embody this as well. You can cast spells to protect children in your family and home. Some of my favorites is creating protective charms for my son to wear, drawing sigils on his clothes, or using his stuffies to turn them into protective poppets. Or take it a step further and extend your protection to those who are being harmed by others and are in need of justice and help in the world. You can also spend your time at places like domestic violence shelters or foster homes this holiday season to help spread some love , cheer, and a safe place to a child who may need it desperately right now from you.

Other ways to work with and connect to Santa

  • Celebrate Saint Nicholas day on December 6th in any of the ways we talked about above
  • Add images of Santa to your yule tree and holiday decorations
  • Create a sigil out of his name and use it spells or add it to cookies you bake with kitchen magic to offer him
  • cleanse and purify your chimney and hearth he will come down on Christmas eve night
  • Celebrate Christmas eve or Christmas day
  • Attend a holiday, Christmas, saint Nicholas day, or Santa parade if there is one near you
  • Sing song about him when you go caroling
  • Wish magic
  • Leave offering for woodland creatures and his reindeer
  • Go on a mindful winter nature walk
  • Work with the elves, fae, and brownies in your magic
  • Work with his colors red, black , and white in color magic
  • elemental magic with element of fire with a bonfire
  • dress up as Santa or better yet become a professional Santa
  • Work with the divine masculine and ascended master energy
  • Read about Jesus Christ prior to the king James version of the bible whom Saint nick worshipped
  • Volunteer to read stories to children at the library or book store as a Santa or an entity related to him
  • Invite others into your home for a holiday feast and secret Santa gift giving game
  • Do shadow work and journal about how kind you are during the rest of the year and how you may or may not need to change it in the coming year.
  • Cast spells to fulfill wishes with snowflake magic
  • Write a manifestation letter to Santa, read it out loud on Christmas ever night as Santa flies by, and bury it in the snow to have it manifest in the next year for you as gift from Santa
  • Cast spells for peace, harmony, joy, and good will
  • Random acts of kindess
  • Help with Santa’s workshop by donating toys
  • Participate in community holiday events where you can visit and see Santa in person

Why work with Santa?

Santa Claus is someone who will remain in the hearts of children forever and linger in our memoires of past cherished and festive times as adults.. While some may only consider him to be a mythical person who brings toys and good tidings to children at Christmas. As we grow older we see him as the special symbol of good will and selfless giving that he is. Every holiday season he rides through the night skies. Visiting each house to remind us of the importance to be genuinely kind to those in need and to give to our community.

To expand your knowledge about him and his magic or if you’d rather listen than read; you can watch my free class with Divination Academy on YouTube all about him below!

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

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Shake up societal norms and liberate yourself during Saturnalia

Yule may be the most well-known pagan celebration of the Winter season, but it is certainly not the only one nor in my opinion is the most fun of them all. That would be The Saturnalia Festival. The Saturnalia Festival l is an ancient Roman holiday that mainly celebrated the Winter sowing season, as well as honored the god Saturn. The actual dates vary but most scholars agree it was once celebrated between December 17th and the 23rd OR December 25th through the 31st, depending on the calendar that was used. Saturnalia was a jovial time for the entire city of Rome because, everyone in ancient Rome participated in the excitement. Saturnalia was a day when all work came to halt for everyone from the emperor to slaves. This meant even the courts of law were closed. Saturnalia was a time of revelry and social upheaval in Roman society, characterized by indulgence, merrymaking, and the suspension of norms.

When was Saturnalia?

The Saturnalia Festival is an ancient Roman holiday that mainly celebrated the Winter sowing season, as well as honored the god Saturn. The actual dates vary but most scholars agree it was once celebrated between December 17th and the 23rd OR December 25th through the 31st, depending on the calendar that was used. What we know for sure is it that it was observed around Midwinter a.k.a. the Winter Solstice and when the Norse celebrated Yule. Saturnalia is thought to have lasted for up to seven days, this was followed by the celebration of the winter solstice and birth of the the sun god, Sol Invictus, on December 25th , an occasion marked by the city wide chariot races.

History of Saturnalia

Saturnalia started out as a one-day farmers’ festival on 17th December each year. As you might have guessed by the name, the festival was to honor Saturn – the god of farming and the harvest. Over the centuries, the festival grew, eventually becoming a seven-day event culminating on December 23rd with Sigillaria – a day of gift-giving. During this period, Romans celebrated the completion of the planting season and honored Saturn, thanking him for the promise of bountiful harvests to come. The festival brought warmth and light to the darkest days of the year and most of all gratitude to the god of agriculture Saturn.

Saturnalia a time to shake up societal norms

My all time favorite Ancient Roman tradition comes from this festival. One of Saturnalia’s traditions consisted of allowing people to revel in a role reversal of sorts. The social norms on Saturnalia were lifted. Slaves were treated as equals, allowed to wear their masters’ clothing, and be waited on at meal time in remembrance of an earlier golden age thought to have been ushered in by the god. Not only that but, it was a time of participating in indulgences we normally wouldn’t get to partake in like orgies, and cross dressing.

Saturnalia a time of Liberation

Saturnalia was even called a “feast of liberation.” Enslaved people were temporarily liberated. Moral rules were loosened, so activities like gambling , swearing in public and cross dressing were allowed on Saturnalia. The strict city dress code enforced upon all was even lifted meaning no more togas during this festival. Instead bright clothes were worn by all. Allowing others to freely be themselves and express themselves in ways that normally are not allowed giving them liberation they don’t normal get to feel the rest of the year round.

Saturnalia a golden era of abundance

At the heart of Saturnalia was a celebration for Saturn, the god of a the best time for humanity, called the Golden Age. This was a time when everything was plenty and peaceful. It was like a magical time with lots of resources, where everyone got along well, and the earth gave abundance without anyone having to work too hard. This time was full of lots of good things and happiness, and life was easy and free. The time when Saturn was in charge was like the beginning of a world that was full of peace and freedom. This is the time we remember and try to receive from the god Saturn again during Saturnalia.

Saturnalia a time when the veil is thinned

Like their Northern European neighbors who celebrated Yule, the ancient Romans believed the spirits and ghosts from the underworld were active during the Winter season and holidays like Saturnalia. Saturnalia, was a time when the spirits of the dead were honored and the boundaries between social classes were temporarily overturned including those between the living and the dead.

Common Traditions

Saturnalia was generally considered a merry festival, with lots of feasting and exchanging of gifts. Many of the common traditions we see during the winter solstice were seen during this festival as well. In Rome, the holiday was kicked off with a religious ceremony in the Temple of Saturn, followed by a free public banquet open to all. Along with the other common traditions below.

Unbinding of Saturn’s feet

The statue of Saturn’s feet, typically bound the rest of the year, were freed from their bindings during the festival. This symbolized the freedom and liberation of the gods, people, and earth. This was done within the temple of Saturn and by most accounts I can read the priest’s was even allowed to uncover his face.

Drinking, feasting, and revelry

Saturnalia was definitely a time of merriment full of Bacchus level style of partying. Drinks were flowing, bellies were full, and voices of laughter and singing were heard throughout every street. Sources say traditional foods included roast boar, cakes, walnuts, honey, grapes, fermented fish, figs, apples and of course, wine. In addition to the role reversals, large parties were had that involved orgies, fertility rites, gambling, and games of many kinds. cross-dressing was a common tradition and enlivened the atmosphere with joy as well.

Gift giving and gag gifts

Gift-giving, still common during the Winter holiday season today, was incredibly prominent in ancient Rome as a Saturnalia tradition. Gifts were given to children and gag gifts between friends. The gag gifts were called sigillaria and were typically wax dolls and figurines made to resemble gods, mythical heroes, and even grotesque monsters. These were typically sold during a Saturnalia market traditionally held during the holidays. Some believe the figurines are a nod to ancient times when human sacrifices might have been made. I wonder if this is where the roots to the famous gag gifting game, the white elephant game, gets it’s roots from.

The king of Saturnalia

The King of Saturnalia was a man chosen in each household to represent the leader of Saturnalia or Lord of Misrule. The King of Saturnalia would then cause mischief or misrule in the household and more specifically at parties and feasts. By playing pranks, telling jokes, chasing the women, etc. Even having the role creating chaos, by yelling commands that other partygoers had to obey. I consider this tradition as a way to create a character or “spirit” of the season. When I read about this common tradition it gives me a very Loki, causing Mischief kind of feel.

Saturnalia and the god Saturn

Saturn, and his consort Ops (Opis) were both worshiped on Saturnalia. To the Ancient Romans, Saturn wasn’t just the god of karma time and boundaries, but he was also an agricultural god and the ruler of a great Golden Age, a time of abundance and perfect peace. He taught the people about agriculture and how to save their money, so they might never experience hunger or poverty again. He taught them the payout of discipline and restraint. Offerings and sacrifices were made to both the god and his goddess in hopes of protecting the Winter-sown crops. Saturn, also called Father Time and Seed-Sower, is the Roman god of agriculture, prosperity, time and fertility. In one of the myths, Saturn is a haggard wanderer who eventually is given the job of door guardian. Tasked with guarding Rome’s immense wealth. Let’s be honest we all know how much Rome loves their money and gold. Which places him as one of the most important gods to Rome of all, outside of their founders whom we celebrate soon during Lupercalia.

Saturnalia and the goddess Ops

Saturn wasn’t the only deity honored during the days of the Saturnalia Festival but, so was his consort Ops. On, December 19th is Opalia, the feast day of Ops. Ops is the goddess of peace, plenty, and protection. She specifically is invoked to guard one’s home against fires and to extinguish fires that have gone out of control. Interestingly, her name influenced the word opulence, which means great wealth or luxuriousness.

Saturnalia Vs the Winter solstice and Yule

While both Saturnalia and the Winter Solstice happen to be festivals that take place around the same time as each other they are quite different with different core meanings. Saturnalia was a time of revelry and social upheaval in Roman society, characterized by indulgence, merrymaking, and the suspension of norms. In contrast, Yule carried a deep reverence for the natural cycles, focusing on the return of light and the cosmic order. While both Saturnalia and Yule involved feasting and joyful gatherings, their underlying philosophies and significance varied. Yule centered on the sun’s rebirth and spiritual renewal, whereas Saturnalia was more associated with social liberties and honoring Saturn as an agricultural deity.

Themes of Saturnalia

Every season and every pagan holiday has certain concepts and magical themes. Which means, depending on your tradition and needs, you can weave one or more of these themes into your personal celebrations. This festival perform spells to harness the energies of the harvest, abundance, expression, gratitude, liberation, accessing our deepest desires, and merriment. This is also a time to reflect on the past year, but in a way to be present. To truly let go and celebrate the hard work you did during the planting and harvest season. Saturnalia is a time to break down walls, let go of fear, and allow ourselves to express ourselves freely. To no longer let the expectations, and rules of societal norms hold us in shackles anymore. On Saturnalia, we see the following magical rituals and spells below as well. Remember these are just some of the themes and energies you can connect to and work with on Yule.

  • Merriment
  • Role reversal
  • Liberation
  • Equality
  • Celebration
  • Feasting
  • Drunkenness
  • Breakthroughs
  • Expression
  • Freedom
  • Abundance
  • The Harvest
  • Charity
  • Community
  • Agriculture
  • Wealth
  • Joy
  • Winter
  • Debauchery
  • Interconnectedness
  • Humor
  • Mischief

Saturnalia and Duality

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like the ancient Roman Festival of Saturnalia. This festival and holiday is time full of merriment, revelry, and honestly down right debauchery. Allowing us to express ourselves freely. For this one time during the year not be bound by societal norms giving us a taste of true authentic freedom. This may make some think this holiday is only about positive and wanted energies. But, that is not the case. To truly be free, to feel full liberation and be present in true debauchery you have to allow yourself to face your repressed feelings, inner shame, and let go of fear and control. You must be willing to let go of all fears and take a massive leap of faith in yourself, your partner, and the community you have made. You have to be willing to remove any masks you have in place so you can be truly present to feel all the pleasure liberation has for you to taste.

Correspondences of Saturnalia

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy, the zodiac energy the moon is currently or for A holiday or sacred time like Saturnalia. I will list below for you to use. Remember this is not an all encompassing list and there may be other correspondences to use. Just follow your intuition and use what calls to you.

  • Planet- Saturn
  • Animal- pig/ boar
  • Element- Earth
  • colors- red, green, gold, white
  • Herbs/flowers-spruce, fir, holly, bay laurel, cinnamon, pumpkin, mint, cumin, peppercorn, coriander, fennel, Rue
  • Stones/ crystals- Iolite, Sapphire, Moldavite, Black obsidian, Shungite, Smoky quartz, Spirit quartz, Onyx, pyrite, black tourmaline, Jet, blue kyanite, carnelian, ruby, garnet, malachite, clear quartz, Lapis Lazuli
  • Deities-Saturn and Opis. Also Janus, and Bacchus
  • Symbols-decorated trees, evergreen garland, wreaths, gilded ornaments, the sun face, candles, Sigillaria, coins
  • Food/drinks: boar, pork, honey cakes, figs, dates, grapes, mulled wine, mead, apples, olive oil

Ways to connect to Saturnalia

Whether you choose to weave Saturnalia traditions into your Winter holidays OR full-on embrace the ancient Roman festival, there are many festive ways to do so. First, In your everyday life, you can work with any affirmations, mantras, and visualization work for liberation, freedom, sexual desires, abundance, and wealth. Check out below more ways to work with and celebrate this Ancient roman holiday into your holiday season even now!

Switch up the roles in your home

One of the most popular traditions and my personal favorite was the role reversal. So, why not do the same in your life during this festival to honor that as well. Now, you may not be able to do this in your entire life because, it isn’t something that is widely celebrated like it was during ancient times in Rome. But, you can do it in your own home at least. So if you are normally the one managing the home while someone else gets a more laid back role. For these few days switch those roles. Allow each other to understand how the other feels to create more harmony in your home from this day on.

Gambling

During Saturnalia, a time of jovial merrymaking, many social norms were relaxed and inverted. Gambling, normally outlawed, was allowed in public. According to some accounts, you were only supposed to gamble for nuts, not money, to recreate the golden age of Saturn

Abundance and Sharing Celebrations

Host a feast that’s all about gratitude and generosity. Share your blessings with others, perhaps through a community meal where everyone contributes, or by donating to those in need. You can also cast abundance and wealth spells for not only you but, also for others. One of my favorites to do is to make abundance spell bags, or packets and gift them to friends, family members, and even strangers on the street.

Gift giving

Embrace the joy of giving with thoughtful, perhaps handmade, gifts. Acts of kindness, personalized letters, or DIY crafts can be more meaningful than store-bought presents.

Other ways to celebrate

  • Decorate with Evergreens
  • Carry On the Saturnalia Tree Tradition
  • Purification and cleansing Rituals
  • host a Saturnalia Feast
  • Dress in bright and lively clothing
  • add Saturnalia Decorations to your altar
  • Honor Saturn with prayer and offerings
  • Work with some chaos magic to cause a little mischief
  • Designate someone in your home as the king of Saturnalia
  • Throw a Big Party full of dancing, singing, drinking, and feasting
  • Pumpkin magic
  • Shadow work focused on freedom, liberation, and what you view as societal norms holding you back. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.
  • Study and learn about the history and practices of Saturnalia
  • Good luck and fortune spells
  • Sex magic
  • Add sigils to increase joy and give thanks for your meal with some kitchen magic
  • Candle magic
  • Apple magic
  • Mirror magic to unmask repressed parts of who you are
  • Spells to increase peace, harmony, and understanding
  • Play pranks, be a kid, do things that make you laugh
  • Celebrate the past years success
  • Charity work, or donate your time focused on feeding those in need
  • Elemental magic with the element Earth

Final thoughts

While Saturnalia seems to be lost to the ancient past by many, its lessons feel timeless. It teaches us to pause, reflect, and connect—to honor the cycles around us and revel in life’s fleeting joys. The Romans embraced Saturnalia as a way of restoring balance, gaining perspective, and finding unity, whether its by serving another or sharing a warm laugh . Follow your intuition and honor Saturnalia however feels right. That could be through sharing gifts, hosting a festive feast, or simply taking a moment to connect with your loved ones beyond the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Saturnalia reminds us to honor both the light and the shadow, to plant seeds for future harvests, and to bask in the merriment of community. It reminds us of the true freedom and liberation we get to feel when we embrace our authenticity and live outside of societal norms no matter what others feel and think.

Come join me for community, knowledge, and to restore the enchantment of magic in yourself and life today!

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

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Working with the Magic of the Winter Solstice during Yule

As the days draw short and the nights grow long, there are celebrations as well as a tinge of fear in the cold, crisp air as the wild hunt stampedes across the sky on winter solstice night. One of the most popular celebrations honoring the winter solstice was Yule Yule is one of the oldest winter solstice festivals, With roots that intertwine Celtic, Druidic, and Norse traditions from thousands of years ago. Yule is a celebration of the dark stillness of winter and the rebirth of the sun. This ancient celebration marks the point at which the night is longest, the day is shortest, and the journey back toward light begins. the winter solstice offers an opportunity to honor nature’s cycles, reflect on the dark season, and celebrate the sun’s return. Like most winter solstice festivals, themes of light, fire, and feasting are common threads. In Norse culture, the winter solstice was known as Yule or Jol, a festival. It was believed that during this time, the sun goddess Sol gave birth to a new sun, marking the beginning of longer days and the end of winter darkness. Yule offers a beautiful opportunity to honor the cycle of nature, embrace the winter season, and welcome the returning light. Join me on a walk through the crisp winter air, to the feel the snow on your cheeks until you reach the Yule bonfire on Winter solstice night.

What is the winter Solstice?

The Winter Solstice occurs annually around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and around June 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. This is a day when the daylight is diminished and it’s the longest night of the year. Nearly every ancient culture acknowledged or celebrated the Winter Solstice in some aspect. It is a powerful moment in the solar year: The night is at its longest, but immediately after this peak, the light begins to regain its hold again (slowly). The solstice represents death, the absolute darkest moment of the year, but also rebirth and hope. Even as we acknowledge grief, loss, and the death in nature all around us, we know that everything will come back to life again in the spring and summer as it always has.

What is Yule?

Yule was one of the most important festivals in the old heathen calendar. Yule is a midwinter celebration that goes back to (as early as) the 4th century. Yule or Jol is an ancient Germanic holiday season. Some say Yule lasted for 12 days, from the Winter Solstice forward, while others say the festivities lasted an entire two months. From December through January, if we’re looking at a modern calendar. The name Jol is believed to come from a name for Odin himself – JÓLFAÐR, which translates to Yule Father. Yule holds immense significance as a time of transition, rebirth, and renewal. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, as the sun begins its ascent, gradually growing stronger and promising the return of spring. Yule is a celebration of the winter solstice, representing the return of light, the cycle of life, and the interconnectedness of nature and humanity.

Other names for yule

  • Jól
  • Jólablót
  • Jul
  • Yule time
  • Yuletide

Other Celebrations of the Winter solstice

Many cultures across earth have developed their own stories, beliefs and practices surrounding the winter solstice. These are just a few examples of the diverse ways the winter solstice has been found across different cultures. Many cultures have the universal themes of rebirth, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness, symbolizing hope and the promise of a new beginning.

Alban Arthan
The winter solstice was celebrated by the Celts as the festival of Alban Arthan, which means “Light of Winter.” It was believed that during this time, the Oak King (representing the waxing year) defeated the Holly King (representing the waning year), symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. They believed that the burning of the Yule log was a way to symbolize the sun’s return and that the exchange of gifts was a way to honor the gods and ask for their favor in the coming year.

Saturnalia
The Saturnalia Festival is an ancient Roman holiday that mainly celebrated the Winter sowing season, as well as honored the god Saturn. The actual dates vary but most scholars agree it was once celebrated between December 17th and the 23rd OR December 25th through the 31st, depending on the calendar that was used. Saturnalia was a jovial time for the entire city of Rome because, everyone in ancient Rome participated in the excitement. Especially what I find to be the most interesting par t of this festival the role reversal when power dynamics were switched. Meaning slaves and servants were now the masters for one day and vice versa.

Chinese winter solstice
In Chinese culture, the winter solstice is associated with the concept of yin and yang. It is believed that during this time, yin (representing darkness and cold) reaches its peak, and yang (representing light and warmth) begins to grow, symbolizing the return of light and the gradual transition towards spring.

  • Blue Christmas (holiday) (Western Christian)
  • Brumalia (Ancient Rome)
  • Dongzhi Festival (East Asia)
  • Inti Raymi (Inca)
  • Koliada and Korochun (Slavic)
  • Midwinter Day (Antarctica)
  • Sanghamitta Day (Theravada Buddhism)
  • Shabe Yalda (Iran)
  • Shalako (Zuni)
  • Uttarayana (India)
  • We Tripantu (Mapuche)
  • Willkakuti (Aymara)
  • Yaldā (Western and Central Asia)
  • Yule in the Northern Hemisphere (Germanic)
  • Ziemassvētki (ancient Latvia)

The wild Hunt

Yule was also the time when it was believed the wild hunt would stampede across the skies. This was the night when ancestors visited from the Otherworld, and gods and spirits upon phantom horses rode through the night sky, led by All-father Odin upon his eight legged steed Sleipnir, leading the legendary Wild Hunt! No one wanted to be caught out alone on the road on this night as the ghostly hunting party ripped through the night sky, carrying the souls of the dead to the Otherworld.

Yule a time of renewal, rebirth, and transformation

Yule marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It symbolizes the rebirth of the sun as the days gradually start to lengthen again. Yule celebrates the return of light and the promise of warmth and growth in the coming months. Yule is a time of renewal and transformation, both in nature and within ourselves. It represents the cyclical nature of life, reminding us that even in the darkest times, there is always the potential for light and growth. Yule is a time to shed old patterns, release what no longer serves us, and set intentions for the future.

Yule a liminal time of instrospection

Yule is a time for introspection and reflection on the past year. It provides an opportunity to review personal growth, accomplishments, and challenges, as well as to contemplate the lessons learned and the changes desired for the future. Yule encourages self-reflection, inner work, and setting intentions for personal and spiritual development. One of the best ways to do that is through Shadow work. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here; you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

Yule a time of celebration and family

Yule is traditionally a time of gathering with loved ones, family, and community. It is a time for sharing warmth, love, and gratitude. Yule celebrations often involve feasting, exchanging gifts, and participating in rituals or ceremonies that foster a sense of togetherness and unity. It is a time of joy amongst the darkest, and harshest nights of the year.

Winter solstice, Yule, and duality

Since, I am a grey witch I look for the duality in every single energy I work with including sacred times like the winter solstice and festivals to celebrate it like Yule. Yule embodies a powerful duality by embracing the beauty of darkness while celebrating the promise of light’s return. It reminds us that after a season of long, cold nights and short days, the sun’s return is imminent. Yule recognizes the profound duality of life: the lightness and the dark. Yule is a time to pause in honor of all that’s good, while also holding space for pain. Throughout Yule there is a constant ebb and flow, a dance of duality. Filled with joy and sorrow, Abundance and scarcity, and lastly life and death.

Yule and Santa

We all know about the jolly, white bearded, red suited old man Santa Claus. He permeates the holiday season and Yule is included in that. Santa Claus is connected to Yule, because many aspects of the modern Santa figure, like his gift-giving nature and ability to travel through the sky, are believed to be derived from the Norse god Odin who was associated with the Yule festivities, particularly the “Wild Hunt” legend where he would fly through the sky on his eight-legged horse Sleipnir, delivering gifts to deserving individuals; essentially, Santa is seen as a modernized version of the “Yule Father” figure from ancient pagan traditions. To learn more about all of his history you can check out my class on YouTube with Divination all about here. Plus a blogpost on him will be coming right after this one!

Yuletide “monsters”

Most people have heard of Krampus, but there is a whole legion of Yuletide monsters just waiting to be your friend. Let’s talk about the Icelandic Yule Cat, the Yule Lads, and their leader Gryla the Christmas witch alongside Krampus as well below. Why not add them to your yuletide festivities this year as well

Krampus

First up Krampus! In the chilly shadows of European winter folklore (primarily Germanic), the figure of Krampus emerges, distinct with his horns, terrifying hairy body and sinister snarling face. Krampus is a terrifying winter devil who accompanies Saint Nicholas. Krampus punishes the naughty children with spankings, and sometimes his punishments are so severe he even drowns, eats, or carries them off to Hell. While St. Nicholas (St. Nikolaus in Germany) is famous for giving gifts and rewards to the righteous, it’s Krampus’s job to strike fear into the hearts of the wicked. To learn all about the Christmas devil himself Krampus read my previous blog post here.

the Yule Cat
While many of us have cats we love on in our homes, the Yule Cat isn’t one to bring inside and feed catnip to. This cat is something much different than the fluffy feline sun bathing in your window sill. In Iceland, his name is the Jolakotturinn. Which essentially translates to Yule Cat and he is known to accompany the Yule Lads (of whom we will meet shortly) and Gryla the Christmas Witch. In fact, the Yule Cat myth has it that he is the pet of Gryla, the only one to love him.

Does that mean if you meet the Jolakotturinn you should let him in your home? Only if you’re fond of facing terrifying creatures AND ONLY IF you are wearing NEW CLOTHES on Christmas when you open that door. What do new clothes have to do with the Yule Cat? Well, legend has it, he will eat you if you’re wearing old clothes!

the Yule Lads
If the Yule Cat wasn’t horrifying enough, let’s move on to the Thirteen Yule Lads that hang about for Iceland’s Christmas. Sadly, Santa Claus doesn’t visit the children in Iceland. But the Yule Lads, Jolasveinar or “Yule Swains”, do! The Yule Lads begin invading Iceland on December 12th, thirteen days before Christmas, and hang around until Christmas Day. Each day one new Yule Lad comes down from his home in the mountains. these Yule Lads are more trollish in appearance and nature than human. And they all take on mischievous, if not downright disturbing, roles like one named Window Peeper. Yes, he looks through windows at the unsuspecting people inside. The rest of the thirteen Yule Lads don’t seem much better either with names like Stubby, Gully Gawk, Door Slammer, and Pot Scraper. And yes, there’s even one named Skirt Blower….. Today it’s believed that if the children are bad, the Yule Lads will give them a potato (raw or rotting). And if the children are good, they will receive a gift from each of the thirteen Yule Swains.

Grýla: The Terrifying Yuletide Witch
Gryla is the monstrous troll-woman and Christmas witch of Iceland tradition and lore. She is accompanied by her sons and familiar we talked about above. .Gryla steals down from her domain in the mountains to the towns where the bad children lay asleep in their beds. She carries a large sack with her, so that when she snatches the children up she has a safe place to put them. Sound familiar? A little like Krampus from up above.


12 days of yule

Yule celebrations lasted 12 days, from December 21st to January 1st.. The 12 Days of Yule is a holiday that celebrates the winter solstice and the rebirth of the sun. It is also a time to honor the gods and goddesses, the ancestors, spirits of the dead, and the spirits of nature. Below I break down what each of the 12 days represents listen to your intuition to determine how you want to honor and celebrate each one of them.

  • Day 1:The first day of Yule is also known as Mother’s Night, and it is a day to honor the female ancestors and the goddesses of fertility, protection, and wisdom. (Dec. 20th)
  • Day 2: The second day of Yule is the winter solstice, the shortest day and the longest night of the year. It is also the day when the sun is reborn, and the days start to get longer and brighter. This is a day to celebrate the light, the fire, and the sun. (Dec 21st)
  • Day 3:The third day of Yule is a day to honor the triple goddess, the three aspects of the divine feminine: the maiden, the mother, and the crone. The triple goddess represents the cycles of life, death, and rebirth, and the phases of the moon. (Dec 22nd)
  • Day 4: The fourth day of Yule is a day to honor the ancestors, the spirits of the departed who have influenced our lives and shaped our heritage. The ancestors can be our blood relatives, our spiritual mentors, or our cultural heroes. (Dec 23rd)
  • Day 5: The fifth day of Yule is a day to honor the animals, the creatures of the earth, air, and water who share this world with us and provide us with food, companionship, and inspiration. The animals can be our pets, our livestock, our totems, or our spirit guides. ( Dec 24th)
  • Day 6: The sixth day of Yule is a day to honor the gods and goddesses, the divine beings who rule over the realms of existence and manifest the forces of nature and the aspects of life. The gods and goddesses can be from any pantheon or tradition that you follow or resonate with. ( Dec 25th)
  • Day 7: The seventh day of Yule is a day to honor the elves, the fairies, the dwarves, and the other hidden folk who dwell in the realms of magic and mystery. The hidden folk are the guardians of nature, the keepers of secrets, and the makers of wonders. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the Elf Feast, the Fairy Ring, and the Dwarf Gift. ( Dec 26th)
  • Day 8: The eighth day of Yule is a day to honor the spirits of the land, the beings who inhabit and animate the natural features of the earth. The spirits of the land are the essence of the mountains, rivers, forests, fields, and stones. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the Landvættirblót, the Stone Circle, and the Sacred Grove. ( Dec 27th)
  • Day 9: The ninth day of Yule is a day to honor the ancestors of the spirit, the people who have inspired us and influenced us in our spiritual path and practice. The ancestors of the spirit can be our teachers, mentors, heroes, or role models. They can be from any time, place, or tradition that we feel connected to. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the Ancestor Feast, the Hall of Heroes, and the Shrine of Inspiration. (dec 28th)
  • Day 10:The tenth day of Yule is a day to honor the spirits of the home, the beings who dwell in and protect our household and family. The spirits of the home are the hearth, the door, the well, and the ancestors. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the House Blessing, the Door Warding, and the Well Offering. ( Dec 29th )
  • Day 11: The eleventh day of Yule is a day to honor the spirits of the sky, the beings who inhabit and rule over the celestial bodies and the weather. The spirits of the sky are the sun, the moon, the stars, and the clouds. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the Sun Salutation, the Moon Meditation, and the Star Gazing. (Dec 30th)
  • Day 12: The twelfth day of Yule is the last day of the old year and the eve of the new year. It is a day to reflect on the past, present, and future, and to celebrate the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Some of the traditions and customs that are associated with this day are the New Year’s Eve, the New Year’s Resolutions, and the New Year’s Day. (Dec 31st)

Common Traditions

Lighting of the Yule log

Burning a Yule log is a time-honored tradition that represents the return of light during the darkest time of the year. A large log, often made of oak or other sacred woods, is ceremonially lit and kept burning throughout the night or for the entire Yule season. Symbolizing the light and warmth in the midst of winter’s darkness, a large log is traditionally burned in the hearth or bonfire. As the log crackles and glows, it serves as a focal point for reflection, meditation, and the manifestation of hopes and dreams for the coming year. Keep in mind as well that the type o f wood you choose will add an extra layer of energy to magic this night as well during this night.

Below is an example of the Yule log my son and I made last year. For this year we used pine, evergreen, apples, ground gloves, cinnamon, bay leaves, sage, and rosemary to fuel our intentions of the next year. To release patterns tainted by mistrust that no longer serve us. To call in abundance, reciprocated love and energy, and peace and healing in our family and home. With the twine we bound our intentions tight to cut off unwanted energies and leave them in our past life. We bind our commitment to our new intentions and goals we set this solstice night full of bright new energy as the sun is reborn this day with new light.

Gift-giving
The tradition of giving gifts during the Winter season is ancient and spans cultures. In Ancient Rome, Saturnalia was an ancient Winter festival that celebrated the god Saturn during the month of December. The Romans gave each other gifts during this time. This tradition is reflected in the story of the three wise-men and the gifts they bring to the newborn Jesus. But gift-giving isn’t limited to the Romans or to baby Jesus, as the ancient Germanic peoples also gave gifts to one another. This was a transfer of blessings for health and abundance.

Yule Singing or caroling
Yule singing, also called caroling, originates in the Wassailing tradition made most popular in England. The term wassail comes from the Old Norse word ves heill which means good health. So the idea of singing to people, or in the orchards to the trees, meant to bless the people or property.

Wassail
Wassailing isn’t just a festive activity you can do with your community but also a hot drink. Wassail is a strong drink, often made with ale, honey, spices, or mulled apple cider. The ritual of wassailing involves anointing the tree with wassail and decorating it with wassail-soaked cakes. During feasts, the wassail is poured into a large bowl and guests are greeted with “waes hael”, which means “drink and be well”

Yule Goat (Bock)
The Yule Goat or Yule Bock is a Scandinavian winter solstice tradition. It’s basically a decorative goat made out of straw or wood. Then hung on the Yule tree or placed elsewhere around the home. The goat itself is one of two things: either a representation of Thor’s sacred animals OR a nod to the calendar moving into the sign Capricorn. Either way, the yule goat brings prosperity and luck in the coming year.

Deities of Yule

During Yule and the winter solstice its common for many witches and pagans to work with and celebrate deities that connect to and represent the energies central to the celebrations. This season and it’s celebrations are full of magic, and there are many gods and goddesses of rebirth, the winter, and the sun we can connect to this Yule. Yule is a really important time in pagan culture and there are plenty of gods and goddesses to work with or worship, depending on your practice, festivals, and celebrations. SOME of them you can work with are; Odin, cailleach, Sol Invictus, Brechta, Skahdi, The oak and holly king and more! Keep an eye out for my blogpost coming in just a few days all about the deities of Yule.

Magical themes of Yule

Every season and every pagan holiday has certain concepts and magical themes. Which means, depending on your tradition and needs, you can weave one or more of these themes into your personal celebrations. This Sabbat perform spells to harness the energies of rebirth, renewal, transformation, the light of the day, rebirth of the sun, and the darkness of night. This is also a time to reflect on the past year, and planning for the new year ahead. It’s a very liminal time weaved with the energies of duality. Yule is a great time to focus on spells that remind us of the joy we get when loved ones are near. This is a very potent time to allow yourself to descend into the depths of your soul for inner work and reflection. To be healed by letting one version of you die on the eve of Yule night to be reborn as a new you with the sun at first mornings light. On Yule, we see the following magical rituals and spells below as well. Remember these are just some of the themes and energies you can connect to and work with on Yule.

  • renewal
  • rebirth
  • Life’s resilience
  • return of the sun
  • stillness
  • Darkness
  • light
  • Joy
  • Family
  • Hearth
  • Introspection
  • reflection
  • ghosts and spirit activity
  • fire
  • nature’s cycles
  • Cleansing/ purification
  • hope
  • death

Correspondences for Yule

First, what is a correspondence? A correspondence is an item or symbol that is meant to connect you to a specific energy thru it’s representation. It is seen also as an item to respect, honor, and venerate that energy as well whether it be a deity, an archetype energy, the zodiac energy the moon is currently or for A holiday or sacred time like Yule and the winter solstice, I will list below for you to use. Remember this is not an all encompassing list and there may be other correspondences to use. Just follow your intuition and use what calls to you.

  • Planet- The Sun
  • Animal- stag, bull, goat, dove, owl, wolf, robin, foxes, reindeer
  • Element-fire and earth
  • colors- white, red, green, gold, silver, white
  • Herbs/flowers- cinnamon, nutmeg, myrrh, frankincense, holly rosemary, sage, oranges, mistletoe, pine, oak, cedar, cloves, poinsettia, peppermint, juniper, bayberry, yarrow, ivy, bay leaves, winter jasmine, all spice
  • Stones/ crystals- snowflake obsidian, blue topaz, onyx, malachite, green aventurine, carnelian, hematite, alexandrite, lapis lazuli, clear quartz, bloodstone, ruby, pearl, garnet, emerald, amethyst, sunstone, labrodorite
  • Deities-green man, holly king, oak king, the horned god, Odin, Brigid, cailleach, baba yaga, freya, Baldor, apollo, mithras, sol Invictus, Demeter, ceres, holda, Diana, Saturn, crones, isis, befena, Horus, Ra, Jesus, Marduk, Ullr , Skadhi, thor, Brechta, sunna, Surya, Amaterasu, Ganesha, Janus
  • Symbols-evergreen tress, bells, yule log, the hearth, sun wheel, candles, wreaths, gifts, krampus, the yule cat, yule lads, Santa, snowflakes, gifts, pineones, elves
  • Food/drinks: apple, cider, wassail, mulled wine, fruits, bread, cookies, bread, oranges, eggnog, nuts, roasted meats. figgy pudding, eggs

Ways to connect to Yule

We have talked about many different themes, and energies you can connect to during this time from rebirth, transformation, rebirth of the sun, darkness, stillness, introspection, keeping a lit hearth, and family. Let’s talk about how we can connect to and celebrate those themes and energies now. First, you can participate and honor any of the deities listed above or that are associated with the winter, Yule, and rebirth. In your everyday life, you can work with any affirmations, mantras, and visualization work for change, rebirth, reflection, growth, and connecting to the wisdom in the stillness of winter. Check out below more ways to work with and celebrate this holiday and time of year.

Refresh Your Altar
One way to connect to a holiday and/or sacred day I always recommend is to cleanse and refresh your altar and/or sacred space. Use earth or fire to cleanse, then decorate with snow water, pinecones and needles, holly, nuts, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, images of Krampus or winter deities, red/green candles and any correspondences we talked about earlier.

Decorate and burn a yule log

Celebrate Yule by joining festivals, feasting, singing, dancing, and spending time with loved ones. The most important and the funnest of all is lighting the Yule log. Hold a ceremony where you and your family can light it together. Nothing says warm and cozy, and keeping unwanted spirits at bay quite like bonfires with your nearest and dearest.

Shadow work and reflection

The winter solstice is a great time for self reflection. There’s no better time to do this than during the darkest and longest night of the year. Wrestling with an issue? Realizations and epiphanies come by easier in the quiet stillness of the season. One of the best ways to self reflect is through shadow work. If you would like to learn more about shadow work you can purchase my eBook here;  you can book me for a 1:1 session as your guide here; and you can watch my free class previously taught on it through Divination here.

Pine cone wishing spell for new beginnings

This is one of my favorite yule time spells and traditions to do. I like it so much I do it again for new years eve as well. Throughout the span of recorded human history, pinecones have been a symbol of human enlightenment, resurrection, eternal life and regeneration. For the Celts, pine cones represented regeneration and were used as a fertility charm where it was often placed under the pillow. So why not take that fertile energy of the pinecone and use it in a manifestation spell? This spell is really simple and easy to do as well! All you will need to do is go outside to your nearest pine tree and pick out a pinecone that is whispering your name and calling to you. Once you have it go back inside and take small pieces of paper and on each one write a wish you want to see fulfilled and manifested in the next year to come. Once you have them written either fold them or roll them towards you while you visualize that wish being manifested and brought to you. Then take them and stuff them into the pine cone so the pieces of paper are stuck in it. Now you can place the pinecone stuffed with your wishes on your altar or even better add a ribbon to the top and hang it on your yule tree. Then on yule night when you burn your yule log, remove your pinecone from the yule tree and burn it in the fire as well. watch as all your wishes come true this next year.

Tell ghost stories or do graveyard magic

Yuletide is a season of ghosts, ghouls and gods. So what better tradition to carry on than telling ghost stories near a roaring fire? This used to be a well-known and beloved winter solstice custom (think of the ghosts in A Christmas Carol) that has all but fizzled out. On top of that why not take it to he next step by doing some graveyard magic as well.

Snow and Ice Divination for Yule
Divination by snow is called nivimancy and divination by ice is cryomancy. There’s different ways to do this. First, if you live in a place where you get snow, simply watching the snowflakes falling and allowing your mind to clear. Then letting images, words, numbers, symbols pop into your mind. If you can go out in the snow, watch the flakes and notice their patterns, how the wind blows them, etc. Ask the Winter gods, ancestors, and spirits to give you messages through the snow. If you don’t live in a place with snow, I recommend the shaved ice method. You can purchase shaved ice, then allow the ice to melt and read the shape, size, etc. of the puddle made. In addition, you can gaze into the puddle and water scry. Living in Minnesota I have learned the Winter spirits really communicate clearly through the falling snow and by scrying off the tops of frozen rivers, lakes, and other bodies of waters. I find I get the clearest messages when I go and sit on the bank of a frozen river in a private little grove or go and visit somewhere I haven’t been before as the snow falls.

Welcoming the Sun

As the solstice marks the turning point from darkness to light, many including myself choose to greet the sunrise on the morning of Yule. Find a quiet spot in nature, whether it be a hilltop or your own backyard, and witness the beauty of the sun’s return. Offer prayers or intentions for the new cycle, and take a moment to feel the warmth of the sun’s rays on your face. Then head on over to sit around a fire you have lit to release what needs to be released as the sun is reborn again and the long nights begin to get shorter.

Simmer pot for the winter solstice and Yule

Whether you consider yourself a Kitchen Witch, are vaguely interested in Kitchen Magic or just want to bring some good vibes and good smells into your home, simmer pots are an easy, accessible and fun ritual for any time of year! Simmer pots are easy to create and customize to your liking, so you can make your kitchen a sacred space whenever you want! So, why not make one specifically to call in and honor the energy of Yule and the winter solstice.

What are simmer pots? Simmer pots are basically potpourri in a pot! You choose your ingredients, put them in a pot with water, bring to a boil, then turn down to a simmer and let it do its thing. They couldn’t be any easier, just be sure you don’t let your pot boil dry! If you want to keep the pot going simply add more water when it gets low. And obviously never leave it going when you are not home. To learn more about how about this magical practice you can check out my previous blogpost on the topic here.

Other ways to connect to Yule

  • Decorate a yule tree
  • snow magic
  • journal and reflect on the natural cycles of the earth
  • do a release burn
  • Go on a mindful walk in nature
  • Plan and set SMART goals
  • Gather Mistletoe-In Celtic times, druids gathered mistletoe from oak trees to ward off “evil” spirits and bring good luck.
  • Make and hang a wreath-Evergreen wreaths symbolize eternal life and are displayed to honor nature
  • Do some kitchen magic by baking sigils into your baked goods like gingerbread and use spices of the season like nutmeg and cinnamon
  • Use Apple magic and orange magic for prosperity and abundance by making a dried fruit garland
  • Hearth magic to keep your home warm
  • Make some traditional drinks like hot apple cider, wassail, or eggnog
  • Make a yuletide wreath and hang it on your front door or add it to your altar
  • Candle magic- light white to welcome new beginnings and cleansing for the new year
  • declutter and cleanse your home only keeping the things and energy you want to bring into the new year
  • feast around a lit hearth with your friends and family
  • Have a ritual cleansing bath to promotes self care and self worth; add herbs of yule and shut the lights off and light as many candles as you can
  • renewal, rebirth, and transformation magic
  • solar magic
  • Create a wishing spell jar for the winter solstice or create one to release the past year and bury it into the earth
  • Exchange gifts with family and loved ones
  • Donate items, time or money to your community to spread joy and give support during the hareshest months of the year
  • Make a yule pomander ball
  • Create a yule charm and gift it to some friends and family
  • Write a gratitude list
  • Leave offerings for animals out in nature

A Witch Ball Yule Spell for Protection

Since Yule, and the winter solstice are thought to be a liminal time when ghosts and other worldly spirits are roaming the earth, a Yule spell for protection may be necessary. Why not create one that will also look great on your Yule tree as a decoration too! You can do this by creating a Yule protection spell witches ball.

What you will need:

  • A fillable Christmas ball ornament (also called terrarium ornaments. Find at craft and dollar stores.)
  • Three protective herbs: rosemary, salt, cinnamon
  • One small stone with protective vibes, examples: tiger’s eye, black tourmaline, obsidian
  • Small piece of paper
  • Something to write with
  • Bow or decoration for top of ball
  • any correspondences that connect you to yule you want to add

How to perform:

  • Gather your ingredients and cleanse them in whatever way you prefer. I like to use sound or smoke cleansing.
  • Get yourself into sacred container
  • Begin by opening your fillable ornament and breathing gently into it. You’re filling this spell with your essence. At this time, you should also be visualizing your intention for the ball or speaking it out loud. This would be the intention of protecting you, your loved ones, and your home for the Winter solstice and and all witner long.
  • Next, add each herb one by one, telling each ingredient it’s job for the Yule spell. For example, “cinnamon protects my home and family and increases this Yule spell’s effect.”
  • Then add your protective stone. And any other charms you feel are protective.
  • Then add your extra correspondences representing yule
  • Last, you’re going to write your intention on your piece of paper, then say it out loud, as you roll it towards you, then place it in the fillable ball.
  • Seal the ball with the top piece and add any bows or decorations to it. You could even draw a sigil of protection on it as well like one from Krampus or Odin for example.
  • Then hang it on your Yule tree, near your front door or other threshold, or add it to your altar for the winter solstice.

12 Days of Yule = Your Next 12 Months Divination Method

This is a technique I’ve used for a few years now and it almost always turns out to be scary on-point. For each of the 12 days of Yule, you’ll record any omens or signs from that day. Each of those 12 days’ omens/signs are your reading for the next 12 months in the coming year. I honestly picked this up off another witchcraft website a few years ago and can’t remember who made the suggestion. So if it was you, let me know so I can credit you.

Here’s a few examples of how this Winter Solstice divination works:

  • 1st day of Yule: the first snow falls
  • 2nd day of Yule: a crow sits on your roof and caws before dawn
  • 3rd day of Yule: your grandma calls and says she’s been thinking about your friend who passed away
  • 4th day of Yule: carolers come to your house and sing your favorite song
  • 5th day: the broom falls over by your front door
  • 6th day: you find a dead mouse in the basement
  • 7th day: a friend visits without first notifying you
  • 8th day: your candle burns down SUPER quick leaving a wax pattern that looks like a heart
  • 9th day: you step outside and hear a coyote call
  • 10th day: nothing remarkable happens
  • 11th day: you spill your coffee all over your new dress
  • 12th day: your heater dies

How this divination plays out month-to-month make sure to record throughout the year what happens so you can look back at the unreal on point results. Then watch as you add this to yearly traditions like I have as well!

  • 1st day = January = turns out to be a quiet, serene month
  • 2nd day = February = you have a new opportunity to join a local coven
  • 3rd day = March = you dream about your old friend and get the feeling she’s visiting from the spirit world
  • 4th day = April = this month goes really well for you, luck seems to follow you everywhere you go
  • 5th day = May = company shows up. It’s your mother.
  • 6th day = June = you’re sadly demoted at work
  • 7th day = July = then your long time friend from Uni offers you a better job!
  • 8th day = August = a passionate romance comes into your life
  • 9th day = September = you find out a coworker has been talking about you behind your back
  • 10th day = October = a calm, quiet month (and much needed)
  • 11th day = November = your project at work slows down considerably
  • 12th day = December = you realize your anger is getting away from you and figure it’s time to “chill out”

Fire and Ice renewal Yule spell

The winter solstice is a liminal pocket of time that is ripe with the energy of renewal. The earth is going through a time of transition as the days get longer and the nights get shorter from this moment on. It is a time when the sun dies in one moment and in the next is reborn again. Why not take the time to harness some of that potent energy of renewal for yourself as well! The spell below is designed for you to do just that using the alchemizing energy of ice, and the burning passion of fire.

What you will need

  • A freezer safe bowl that holds at least two cups of water.
  • Enough water to fill your chosen bowl at least 2/3rds of the way
  • 1 or more white or yellow tealights or small votive candles
  • Small pieces of winter greenery, berries, warm spices such as cinnamon or cloves, pine needles or citrus slices (fresh, dried or candied) of your choice

For this spell there will be a bit of prep work if you are choosing to use water and not ice. At least four hours depending on the bowl size, before you wish to preform this spell, fill you bowl about 2/3rd full with water. If you are adding greenery, pine needles, etc, do so now. I personally really enjoy adding pine needles, smaller pinecones, holly, and mistletoe. If you are using ice cubes, gathered ice, or freshly fallen snow, simply fill the bowl roughly 2/3rds to 3/4th full with ice.

How to perform:

  • Get yourself into sacred container. Personally, I like to either take my bowl of ice and candle(s) outside where I can be in the snow and winter cold or while standing beside or in front of a window.
  • Place your bowl of water that you prepped by freezing, or your bowl of ice cubes or snow in front of you as you do this start to focus on your intention and energy of renewal for the year. Allow yourself to focus what it is in your life that you need to renew in your life whether that be you as a whole, one area of your life, or even a relationship. It is up to you and now is the time to focus on that energy and bring the intention into your minds eye. Once you have your intention of renewal in your minds eye place your candles in the bowl.
  • Now it is time to light the candles. As you light the flame, say the following words or others that feel right to you: “On winter solstice during Yule, the days begin to grow longer, as the sunlight begins to chase away the longer nights. As nature goes through its rebirth, so too am I renewed in all the ways that I need and want, both known and unknown. I ask for the strength of ice and it’s power of alchemy and change. I ask for the passion and power of fire to burn away what I no longer need and ignite a new light burning bright. I ask for the support of winter’s transformative energy to aid me in this process of renewal and rebirth, As it is, So mote it be.”
  • Allow the candle to burn until it either out entirely or for the melting ice to drip onto it and extinguish it naturally, whichever happens first. As it burns, imagine the strength and warmth of its flames recharging you and you instilling renewed energy, drive and determination inside of you on every level that you presently need.

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About Me : I have been a solitary grey magic practitioner for 15 + years. First and foremost, I consider myself a mystic and seeker of all knowledge. I am dedicated to the restoration, and re-enchantment of Magic in society, across this realm, and in each and every soul I come across in life! I am here to create a container that promotes healing, duality, and raw authenticity. I do this by guiding you on your personal journey to understanding your unique magic and sacred contracts. I facilitate this for you through embracing your shadow, duality and learning to live in energetic balance while not wearing a mask. When you work and learn from me you do so from your “darkness” as much as your “light” and in a way to truly harness and accept it not to just go thru it on the way to your light. But, I teach you how to truly embrace it, work with it, and use it alongside your light as a partner. I hold up a mirror for you to be able to see your authentic reflection looking back. Then have the courage to take the next step and do the uncomfortable but vital inner work to completely remove your mask. By facing all of your past wounds, traumas, and hurts. Allowing you to see both the dark and light within your story and take each chapter and alchemize it into something that is so powerful. your unique internal flame will shine so bright you will always be able to go within and find it on a dark cold night. You will learn how to truly live in duality and energetic balance to allow growth, and alignment with your sacred contracts and purposes. to finally move on and truly let the things that hold you back in this life from healing and manifesting go. To see everything I offer; like personalized shadow work sessions, womb healing, eBooks for you to work through on your own, Tarot sessions for guidance and more! Go to my shop!

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