Tomorrow is the Winter Solstice, when we celebrate the longest night and the return of the light. So tonight, let’s take some time to relish the darkness.

You will need three small candles and just over an hour of undisturbed time in your bedroom, after dark.

Lie on your bed without any lights on in the room. Let natural light or outdoor artificial lights come through the window. For forty-five minutes, lie quietly in the dark, listening. Try not to fall asleep. Let your thoughts wander. Be aware of any sounds, scents, and emotions.

After forty-five minutes, sit up and light the first candle. Feel the way the dark embraces the light. Five minutes later, light the second candle. Feel the way the light and the dark are more in balance. Five minutes later, light the third candle. Feel the way the light now embraces the dark. After five more minutes, either extinguish the candles to use in your Winter Solstice ritual or let them burn down safely.