Finding Light in the Darkness: Yule, Christmas, and Mental Health
As the year winds down and the nights grow longer, many of us feel the weight of the season in ways we can’t always put into words. It’s a time of both reflection and celebration, a season of contrasts: darkness and light, solitude and connection, endings and beginnings. These themes aren’t new—they’ve been woven into winter traditions for centuries, from ancient Yule celebrations to modern Christmas festivities.
The Roots of Yule: Ancient Traditions of Light in the Dark
Yule, deeply rooted in Norse and Germanic traditions, marks the winter solstice—the longest night of the year and the slow return of the sun. The word "Yule" itself is believed to come from the Old Norse word "hýl," meaning "wheel," referring to the sun’s journey through the sky. For centuries, communities would gather around roaring bonfires, burn Yule logs, and share stories, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of the darkness. This act of lighting fires was not only practical but deeply symbolic: it represented the sun’s return and the promise of warmth and light after the coldest, darkest days.
The burning of the Yule log, a tradition that dates back to the early Middle Ages, was particularly significant. In some regions, families would save a piece of the log to burn in the following year’s fire, symbolizing continuity and the cyclical nature of life. This tradition connects to the ancient belief that the sun, much like the Yule log, would be "reborn" each year, heralding new beginnings and growth.
Similarly, Christmas traditions, many of which were influenced by these ancient practices, continue to draw from this desire to bring warmth and light to the coldest, darkest days. The tradition of decorating Christmas trees with lights, for example, echoes the symbolism of the Yule log. In pre-Christian times, trees were often seen as sacred, representing life and vitality in the midst of winter's barrenness. The use of lights on trees during the Christmas season is a modern reflection of this ancient reverence for light as a source of hope and renewal.
Darkness, Light, and Mental Health: A Connection Across Cultures
The interplay between darkness and light mirrors our mental health journeys: times of struggle can feel endless, but they also remind us of the importance of seeking and creating moments of brightness. Research supports this idea—seasonal changes, particularly the lack of sunlight, can significantly impact mental health. The winter months can bring about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression triggered by reduced exposure to sunlight. The lack of sunlight, along with the cold, can leave many of us feeling isolated or withdrawn, much like the ancient people who faced the harshness of winter.
However, this time of year also invites us to honor the darkness and embrace the light. In many cultures, the winter solstice is a time of spiritual renewal. For example, in ancient Rome, the festival of Saturnalia was held in December, celebrating the god Saturn and marking the return of the sun. This festival involved feasting, gift-giving, and the lighting of candles—practices that we still see reflected in modern Christmas celebrations. Similarly, in the Jewish tradition, Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, celebrates the miracle of oil that burned for eight days in the temple’s menorah. Both of these festivals, like Yule, use light as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the triumph of good over darkness.
Creativity as a Source of Light
As an art therapist, I’m fascinated by how these rituals echo the human need to process and cope with difficult emotions. The act of lighting candles, decorating homes, or gathering around a fire speaks to our deep need to create warmth in the midst of coldness, both literally and metaphorically. In the same way, creativity serves as our own "light in the darkness." Engaging in art can offer a way to process emotions, connect with others, and create something meaningful.
Studies have shown that creative expression can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and foster resilience. This aligns with the age-old tradition of crafting—whether it’s making ornaments, baking cookies, or journaling by candlelight. These small acts of creation honor our need for both connection and introspection. When we engage in creative activities, we tap into a sense of agency and control, helping us navigate difficult emotions and find meaning in the midst of struggle.
This holiday season, I encourage you to embrace the spirit of Yule: light a candle, reflect on what brings you joy, and create something that feels meaningful to you. Whether you’re decorating your home, doodling in a sketchbook, or simply pausing to appreciate the glow of twinkling lights, know that these small acts can have a big impact.
Honor the darkness, celebrate the light, and remember that even in the coldest seasons, we’re capable of creating warmth—for ourselves and others. As the ancient traditions of Yule, Christmas, and other winter celebrations remind us, the darkest days often lead to the brightest moments. By embracing the light within ourselves—whether through creativity, connection, or reflection—we can find our way through the longest nights and into a new season of growth and possibility.
