Written by staff blogger, Leah F.
The Turkish word for Winter is Kış, which refers to the coldest season, characterized by low temperatures and snow. The Greek word for Winter is Cheimonas (Χειμώνας), which comes from ancient origins, meaning harsh weather, tempest and storm. The Japanese word 冬 (fuyu) can be used as an adjective to describe things related to Winter, but it translates quite simply to: Winter. Similarly, in the Inuktitut language, there is just one word for Winter: ukiuq. The Māori word for Winter is hōtoke, which is a direct translation of cold. There’s no doubt that Winter has long been associated with cold, wet, harsh weather, darkness and storms.
So, what exactly is the Winter Solstice?
- A time when the sun is at a low, southernmost position in the sky
- A Winter occurrence that has brought times of change and celebration (for over 5,000 years)
- The shortest day of the year, and the longest night of the year
- A northern hemisphere occurrence, typically around the 21st of December
A Celebration for Everyone
The Winter Solstice marks the Pagan celebration of Yule, which encompasses a range of activities and traditions enjoyed by people of all faiths, beliefs, and cultures. The Winter Solstice has been widely welcomed by nations with a substantial non-religious population, such as Denmark. Denmark continues to be viewed as a place with a very secular society, with statistical data that almost half of its population identifies as non-religious or atheist. (Krabbe Trolle, 2021, 2)
There has been an attempt to shift solstice-related celebrations from events with a pre-Christian perspective to modern, secular celebrations. Due to the Winter Solstice being so close to the Christian celebration of Christmas, it can often be overshadowed by Christmas; some individuals may feel they have to choose one over the other, rather than the two being able to coexist. But the Winter Solstice is really for everyone.
Astrid Krabbe Trolle states:
“...the Winter Solstice celebrations should be considered a contemporary societal reaction to the immediate natural environment, such as sunlight and darkness, as well as the historic past.”
Celebrations of Light
As planet Earth tilts, bringing the Winter solstice, along with the phenomenon of the polar night, geographic locations will see anywhere from 0 to 8+ hours of daylight. The lack of daylight has allowed for celebrations during this time of year to focus on light, illumination and symbols that represent such. (Krabbe Trolle, 2021, 2)
Ways to Celebrate
Here are some examples of Yule-related celebrations that can be enjoyed by all, all around the world.
Make an Evergreen Wreath
Celebrations of the Winter Solstice tend to incorporate lots of greenery and lots of light. Did you know that 1 acre of a tree farm produces enough oxygen for 18 people? Or Did you know that tree planting is the most effective and cost efficient way of removing excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. (Pesznecker & Llewellyn, 2015, 63) Try your hand at making a wreath for your door. You can use a combination of real and artificial elements, and if you have a knack for it, you could even make some for gifts.
Make ‘Jar’ Gifts
In the spirit of gift-giving, consider making jar-based gifts, such as soup mix, hot chocolate mix or bath salts.
Science- or Anthropology-based
There is no doubt that there are commonalities between the following holidays and celebrations: Winter Solstice, Bodhi Day, Christmas, Chanukah, and Kwanzaa. All of these occasions utilize light and illumination as part of their celebrations and as a means of symbolism. (Yolen & Stemple, 2024) All of these celebrations take place in December, either just before, during or after the Winter Solstice. Those who want to celebrate the Winter Solstice solely can enjoy a time that may not include a set of beliefs or religion, for example. For others, they can celebrate the very same natural and scientific wonder of the Earth tilting on its axis through the very same activities, traditions and celebrations, while incorporating them into their religion and culture. Some cultural anthropologists would argue that the Winter Solstice has been celebrated worldwide by many cultures for thousands of years, but in the form of Christmas, Bodhi day, Chanukah and Kwanzaa, for example.
Check out this book as a go-to guide for explaining light-illuminated celebrations to children.
Hey, winter isn't so bad! Embracing it beyond the Solstice, at the Library
Winter is a time of great history and influence on the development of human societies and culture. Winter has made its mark of excellence across the globe, yet it still has a poor reputation, or it is even despised by some.
Consider these glass-half-full solutions:
Belonging
Isolation can (sometimes) be solved by having a sense of belonging. So what is belonging? Belonging can be defined in so many different ways, it can mean someone has found a sense of belonging amongst their circle of friends, but it can also mean that someone has found a sense of belonging within their social group at their public library. Having this sense of belonging can help a person feel less lonely, which is a common emotion that can co-exist with declining winter mental health. The warmth of human connection is one of the oldest, and best ways folks in Iceland (and around the world) have coped with the onset of winter darkness. They rely on each other, and cod liver oil, a tradition since viking time, and a resource packed with beneficial vitamins A & D. (ARTE France, 2014).
There are so many ways belonging shines at the Library. Read some community stories on our blog to get inspired, or join us at an upcoming event of your fancy. We even have recurring Socials & Clubs.
Time to be a Hobbyist
Consider borrowing a magazine such as Happiful from the library; this magazine aims to provide mental health resources for Winter and year-round.
Winter can be the perfect time to take up a new hobby; having a go-to hobby can be a way of self-care throughout the coldest, darkest season. Consider practicing winter-time self-care through crafting, adventuring, or making something tasty in your kitchen.
Check out resources on crocheting, candy-making, quilting and much more! Attend a hobbyist focused program this Winter! Join your local library for a painting social, quilting circle or music jam!
Beyond Books Collection
Exploring the Sunlife Financial Musical Instrument Collection: Halifax Public Libraries is home to over 150 musical instruments; some of the most popular borrowed instruments include guitars and ukuleles. Consider learning a new instrument this Winter, explore our book and dvd collection for instructional guides on learning your instrument of choice, whether that be a banjo, mandolin, or keyboard, for example.
Request a light therapy lamp, part of the Beyond Books Collection of Halifax Public Libraries.
While seasonal mood changes and depression greatly vary from Europe to North (Russian & Icelandic data/statistics) (President and Fellows of Harvard College, 2004, 5), there is no question that 1-2% of the population struggle with symptoms of clinical depression, specifically at one time of year, repeatedly. (President and Fellows of Harvard College, 2004, 4) This condition has been called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is triggered by a decrease in sunlight during winter. 1 in ten people in Iceland experience seasonal affective disorder, women more commonly than men. (ARTE France, 2014) (Zimmer, 2025) It is a condition that bright light therapy has proven to be effective for. (President and Fellows of Harvard College, 2004, 5) It has been the most used, effective treatment for seasonal affective disorder; cognitive behavioural therapy is becoming more common for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder symptoms, as it takes an approach of changing negative attitudes the individual associates with winter. (Leibowitz, 2024, 78) Attitude is everything when trying to make it through what is considered a dark, dreary, wet, cold season. Dr. Kari Leibowitz emphasizes the importance of busting common beliefs associated with winter that most have, such as, “You can’t go outside in bad weather.” or “Going outside in the winter will be unpleasant.” (Leibowitz, 2024, 184)
Dr. Kari Leibowitz states:
“When we write off winter, we resign ourselves to settling for crumbs of happiness; we decide it’s okay to be miserable for one to six months of the year. …Reclaiming winter is a chance to find intentional joy”
~ How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark, or Difficult Days - Kari Leibowitz, PhD - pg. 265
Read Dexter Nyuurnibe’s story on using Light Therapy Lamps with Halifax Public Libraries.
Frosty Reads
Winter is the perfect time to cozy up to a good book; consider borrowing one of these Wintry titles today!
Waubgeshig has cleverly crafted a tale that takes the reader to the realities of a northern reservation amid winter storms and a peculiar series of events. This story is reflective of the fact that sometimes what we need to do to survive ends up being the very thing that helps us thrive. This book, a post-apocalyptic thriller addresses mental health themes, indigenous history and rights, and relationships. Set in a close-knit Anishinaabe community, Moon of the Crusted Snow depicts the importance of community, especially during unpredictable times.
This Pulitzer prize finalist illustrates a 1920’s Alaskan Wilderness that is quiet, but not necessarily peaceful. The opening of this book illustrates the dreaded cold and darkness of Winter, “November was here, and it frightened her because she knew what it brought - cold upon the valley like a coming death, glacier wind through the cracks between the cabin logs. But most of all, darkness. Darkness so complete even the pale-lit hours would be choked.” (Ivey, 2012, 4) Eowyn Ivey depicts a character struggling with the lesser-great qualities and seasonal changes privy to remote Alaskan living. This book also illustrates that sometimes we need to imagine everything being taken away to see the beauty in what surrounds us. “No fields or fences, homes, or roads; not a single living soul as far as she could see in any direction. Only wilderness. It was beautiful.” (Ivey, 2012, 9) Beauty, fantasy and magic - all ever present in this fairytale retelling.
Please note: Both of these books contain mental health subject matter that may be triggering for some individuals; suicide is a present topic within both titles.
Prioritize caring for yourself this winter; have a look at the Health & Wellness Resources offered through the Halifax Public Libraries website. The Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line can be reached at 1-888-429-8167; the Canada-wide Suicide Crisis Helpline can be reached at 9-8-8.
For further recommendations, check out this list compiled by teen volunteers, Grace & Emma: Warm and Fuzzy Winter YA Read
Adventuring Outdoors
Winter physical activity has been proven to help bust the winter blues and enhance and stabilize mood. Additionally, getting outdoors during the winter encourages healthy movement and socialization. If you find yourself adventuring outdoors this winter, you may find improvements in your sleep and mental sharpness. (Zimmer, 2025) Icelandic psychologist, Erla Björnsdóttir suggests taking advantage of the morning sunlight. Those in Iceland have learned to lean on their natural environment as a way to cope with seasonal changes and periods of darkness. Outdoor immersion in water and swimming year-round has become something that benefits the physical and mental health of those in Iceland. (ARTE France, 2014) Halifax Public Libraries is here to help you safely get outdoors this winter; enjoy a wide range of activities outdoors with the following borrowing resources:
- Nordic Walking Poles - Read more about the benefits of using Nordic walking poles on this Beyond Books blog post.
- Winter Bird Watching - Check out a bird watching kit from the Captain William Spry Public Library (only). This resource is made possible through the contribution of the non-profit community organization, the Williams Lake Conservation Company.
- Ice and Snow Cleats - Icetraxx snow and ice cleats are available for borrowing, in a variety of sizes, as part of the Beyond Books collection with the Halifax North West Trails Association.
In addition to the above resources, Halifax Public Libraries also carries multiple books that celebrate and educate on Shinrin yoku, also known as forest bathing.
The Outdoor Adventurer's Guide to Forest Bathing
Forest bathing (fully immersing oneself in a forest environment) (Giusti et al., n.d., 1) is a winter activity that may allow for a new perspective on the season that is viewed so differently across the globe. It may aid in busting the mindset that winter is a season of limitations, and shift attitudes to seeing it as a season of opportunity, as so many others do. (Leibowitz, 2024) This is what Dr. Kari Leibowitz calls ‘ the winter mindset’. As Dr. Leibowitz ventured to one of the northernmost points of the world with a goal to better understand how people cope with some of the darkest winters on Earth - her discoveries surprised her. She found herself welcomed in a place of people who not only embraced winter, but celebrated it, in Tromsø, Norway. She realized her study should shift from depression to the lack of it within Norway, rather. (Leibowitz, 2024, 4) Forest bathing originated in Japan, but has become a global form of ‘therapy’; this type of therapeutic forest immersion is known as skogsbad in Sweden. It continues to be a popular practice for disease prevention, stress management, and overall relaxation. This all aligns with the Norwegian concept, friluftsliv, that encourages an outdoor-based lifestyle, and emphasizes life is best lived outdoors. (Giusti et al., n.d., 1) Many individuals would find this concept absurd, considering cold and snowy weather - but it is Scandinavian concepts like this that will challenge that way of thinking. Dr. Leibowitz quickly learned this during her time living in Norway as friluftsliv is integrated in the culture of everyday Norwegian life; friluftsliv is not just an expectation, but a way of life, for all ages, and during all seasons.
Enjoy with Family
Family-friendly options for exploring Winter Solstice, stories, and history:
Describes how and why daylight grows shorter as winter approaches, the effect of shorter days on animals and people, and how the winter solstice has been celebrated throughout history. Includes activities.
Owl and his friends gather up gifts of hope from the woodlands to help shine the light on the longest night of the year.
Winter Solstice Across the Globe
Winter looks different across the globe, yet there is a shared desire to mark the beginning and end of Winter. Consider Kolyada, a Slavic winter festival that celebrated the Winter Solstice during pre-christianity. Many of the rituals and traditions are still celebrated, despite having been blended with those of Christmas over the years. Some of these include: fortune telling with food, honouring ancestors, caroling, and carrying out activities and rituals that ward off evil spirits. (Pamita, 2020) Welcoming winter in your home could be as simple as reading stories set in winter while enjoying hot beverages. You could also consider exchanging gifts with close family and friends for Winter Solstice; a ‘welcome winter’ box could include cozy items like throws and socks, snacks or family-centered activities for doing indoors, such as puzzles and games.
References
ARTE France (Director). (2014). Iceland: Deep In The Polar Night [Film]. ARTE France. https://access.infobase.com/video/26288-iceland-deep-polar-nightworld-medicine?aid=257578&rak=1
Giusti, M., Vårhammar, A. I., & Masterson, V. A. (n.d.). Novel pathways to value nature: how guided forest bathing promotes new relationships with nature. Ecology and Society, 30(2), 1-17. https://doi.org/10.5751/ES-16001-300219
Ivey, E. (2012). The Snow Child. Little, Brown.
Krabbe Trolle, A. (2021, January). Winter Solstice Celebrations in Denmark: A Growing Non-Religious Ritualisation. Religions, 12(2), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12020074
Leibowitz, K. (2024). How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark, Or Difficult Days. Penguin Publishing Group.
Pamita, M. (2020, December 12). Kolyada: The Old Slavic Winter Solstice | Kolyada: The Old Slavic Winter Solstice. Patheos. Retrieved November 27, 2025, from https://www.patheos.com/blogs/babayagascottage/2020/12/kolyada-the-old-slavic-winter-solstice/
Pesznecker, S., & Llewellyn. (2015). Yule: Rituals, Recipes & Lore for the Winter Solstice. Llewellyn Worldwide, Limited.
Pfeffer, W. (2014). The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice. Penguin Young Readers Group.
President and Fellows of Harvard College. (2004, November). Winter depression: The treatment of seasonal affective disorder throws light on dark moods. Harvard Mental Health Letter, 21(5), 4-5. https://eds-s-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.msvu.ca/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=0&sid=4fd03bbb-bd66-4455-b7f2-7bce766358c7%40redis
Rice, W. (2018). Moon of the Crusted Snow: A Novel. ECW Press.
Yolen, J., & Stemple, H. E. Y. (2024). We Celebrate the Light. Penguin Young Readers Group.
Zimmer, S. (2025, February 11). he Power of Movement: How Consistent Physical Activity Can Fight Winter Blues. Signos. https://www.signos.com/blog/the-power-of-movement
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