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

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)

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.

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