Christmas
Celebrated with Christmas trees, visits from Santa Claus, and dreams of snowy landscapes! In England, Santa is luckier, instead of milk and cookies, children leave mince pies and brandy for him!
At Christmas, Iceland turns into a winter wonderland! There is not one but thirteen Santas, known as Yule Lads. One arrives each night in the thirteen days before Christmas, leaving small gifts in shoes left in windowsills.
In Australia Christmas falls during summer so people may go camping or to the beach! Some Australians decorate a “Christmas Bush” which is a native Australian tree with small green leaves and flowers that turn red during the summer.
Hanukkah
Also is known as the Festival of Lights. On each of the holiday’s eight nights, a candle is added to the menorah after sundown. The ninth candle, called the shamash (“helper”), is used to light the others. Festivities include eating traditional Hanukkah foods such as potato pancakes and jam-filled donuts. Children play with dreidels (a small four-sided spinning top with a Hebrew letter on each side) and gifts are exchanged.
Kwanzaa
The name Kwanzaa comes from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits” in Swahili. Each family celebrates Kwanzaa in its own way, but celebrations often include songs and dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading, and a large traditional meal. On each of the seven nights, families gather, and a child lights one of the
candles on the Kinara, then one of the seven principles, values of African culture, is discussed. An African feast, called a Karamu, is held on December 31. Learn more about the principles of Kwanzaa here.
Ōmisoka
Ōmisoka, New Year’s Eve, is considered the second-most important day in Japanese tradition as it is the final day of the old year and the eve of New Year’s Day, the most important day of the year. Families gather on Ōmisoka for one last time in the old year to enjoy a celebratory meal. At midnight, many visit shrines or temples. Buddhist temples have large cast bells that are struck once for each of the 108 earthly desires believed to cause human suffering.
There is a lot of fear and anxiety all around us. If you have been feeling overly stressed, anxious, or emotional, you may be absorbing the energy of others - even when you do not actually meet them. Just going through a grocery store, listening to the news, or thinking about others or the situation can deplete your energy. It is extremely important to keep your energy vibrations high to keep your immune system functioning to its optimal level. Choose healthy and positive thoughts and habits. Keeping your energy clear and protected can minimize the negativity you absorb. now, more than ever before, it is essential to let go of your stress, fears, and suppressed emotions.
To learn more you may schedule a free consultation with me.
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