The Magic Spark

EP 92: Burn the Yule Log, Ditch the Resolutions: A Holiday Deep Dive

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In this episode we explore the origins and significance of Yule, Solstice, their connection to Christmas, and a discussion on New Year's resolutions vs. astrological goal setting. It’s informative, silly, slightly unhinged, with support for your wellness and personal revolution this holiday season.

Yule & Solstice:
Celtic holiday celebrating the winter solstice (shortest day of the year).

  • Pagan origins, influenced by Norse festival of Jol.
  • Festival of Light: symbolizes the rebirth of the sun.
  • Celebrated around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere.
  • Traditional celebrations:
    • Lighting bonfires and candles
    • Decorating with evergreens (holly, ivy, mistletoe)
    • Feasting, dancing, singing
    • Burning a Yule log
    • Symbolism:
      • Evergreen: Rebirth and renewal
      • Holly: Hope
      • Mistletoe: Fertility
      • Tree: Life
      • Christian influence: Many Yule traditions were appropriated by Christianity, making conversion “easier.”

        • New Year's Resolutions:

        • Began in the early 19th century (possibly late 17th century).
        • High abandonment rate:
          • 80% of resolutions fail (U.S. News & World Report)
          • 91% fail by the second week of February (Lifestyle Medical Centers)
          • Only 8% are kept throughout the year.
          • Focus on willpower vs. "why power" (underlying motivation).

            • Astrological Goal Setting:

            • Aligning goals with the natural cycles of the zodiac and meteorological seasons.
            • Emphasizes energetic support and flow.

              • Side Quest Discussion Points:

              • Gregorian Calendar vs. Julian Calendar vs. lunar calendar
              • History of New Year's Eve celebrations
              • Connection between Yule and the Capricorn goat (zodiac)

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                Additional Resources:

                • Connect with Dionna on IG @queenieofwands
                • Connect with Tandy on Instagram @tandy_gutierrez 
                • Puppet Procession for Solstice in Minneapolis 
                • Krown Bakery & Eatery  in Minneapolis
                • Activate 30-days Guest Access on Unicorn Wellness Studio here
                • UnicornWellnessStudio.com Offering 30-min classical Pilates workouts in alignment to the astrological season and lunar cycles and the Cleansing and Clearing 101 + Building an Altar 101 video tutorials. 
                  • Subscribe to Tandy's weekly newsletter for more astrology insights and practical tips.

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                    Additional episodes you might enjoy:

                    EP 90: Capricorn Season Tarot Forecast

                    EP 89: Capricorn Season Deep Dive + Astro Forecast

                    EP 85: Unraveling the magic of WICKED with Nathan from Queens History podcast

                     

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                    The Magic SparkBy Tandy Gutierrez