Journaling is a simple yet transformative practice that can help anchor us in the present moment, fostering mindfulness and a deeper connection with the world around us. At each seasonal point and lunar phase, journaling helps us honor our inner transformations, set intentions, and let go of what no longer serves us. This mindful practice brings clarity to our desires and goals, bridging the gap between where we are and where we want to be. By consistently engaging with journaling, we harness the power of manifestation — we give our dreams a place to grow, nurture them with our thoughts and actions, and watch them unfold in our reality.
It’s a sacred practice of tuning in, connecting, and creating — a way to honor our personal soul-growth journey while staying in harmony with the ever-changing energies of the world.
Below are explanations of solstices, equinoxes, and cross-quarter days, along with the lunar phases of the month and accompanying journal prompts:
Solstices and equinoxes are key astronomical events that mark the changing of the seasons and the balance of light and dark throughout the year.
Solstices occur twice a year, marking the longest and shortest days. The Summer Solstice (around June 21 in the Northern Hemisphere and December 21 in the Southern Hemisphere) is the longest day of the year, when the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky, and daylight is at its peak. The Winter Solstice (around December 21 in the Northern Hemisphere and June 21 in the Southern Hemisphere) is the shortest day of the year, when the Sun is at its lowest point, and daylight hours are minimal. Solstices signify a time of transition and change, celebrating the return of light or embracing the deepening of darkness.
Equinoxes occur twice a year, when day and night are approximately equal in length. The Spring Equinox (around March 20 in the Northern Hemisphere and September 22 in the Southern Hemisphere) marks the beginning of spring, a time of renewal, growth, and new beginnings. The Autumn Equinox (around September 22 in the Northern Hemisphere and March 20 in the Southern Hemisphere) signals the start of autumn, a time for harvest, reflection, and balance. During the equinoxes, the Sun crosses the celestial equator, and light and dark are in perfect harmony.
Both solstices and equinoxes represent moments of balance and transition in nature, reminding us of the cyclical patterns of life, growth, and transformation.
Winter Solstice (Yule)
What inner light do I want to nurture during the darkest days of winter?
How can I create warmth and comfort in my life during this season?
What do I need to release to make room for new growth in the coming year?
Spring Equinox (Ostara)
What seeds of intention am I planting this spring?
How can I bring more balance and harmony into my daily routine?
In what areas of my life do I feel ready to awaken and grow?
Summer Solstice (Litha)