Okay, we know.... it's felt like winter for quite some time now, even beyond the heavy snowfall this week.
So, why is Dec. 21 considered the first day of winter?
The winter solstice, also known as the hibernal solstice, takes place this time each year when Earth's north and south poles are at their maximum tilt away from the sun.
This leads to the longest night of the year in the northern hemisphere and the longest day of the year in the southern hemisphere.
For 2022, the solstice started at 1:48 p.m. Pacific time.
On Wednesday, Tri-Cities residents marked the 2022 winter solstice by getting outside and enjoying nature as the sun beamed down to illuminate the recent snowfall on trails, trees and mountains.
In many cultures, experts have called the winter solstice spiritually significant as it coincides with the holidays like Hanukkah (Dec. 18-26), Shab-e Yalda (Dec. 21), Saturnalia (Dec. 17-23) and Christmas (Dec. 25).
It's also said to act as symbol that more light is on the way in anticipation of the season that lies ahead.
"Winter solstice reminds us of our relationship with darkness, silence, and stillness in times when we don't know the way forward," said Nancy Furness, spokesperson for Wondrous Tree Fellowship in Coquitlam.
"Darkness is the landscape of our inner senses that don't find expression in struggle and achievement, but rather in reflection and deep contemplation. Sometimes we can be seduced by bright lights and miss the opportunity to be still and to listen. Embrace and celebrate the darkness. Tomorrow's dawn will come soon enough."
Did you celebrate, commemorate or capture the winter solstice this year? ❄️ Send photos to [email protected].
