Gather small tools for a mini ritual kit if you’re going to be away from home this season.
Cleanse your house with Yulecentric scents like citrus fruits, frankincense, pine needles, cedar, sandalwood, juniper berries, etc…
Craft a wreath and weave your intent into it.
Tis’ the season of flu and colds; brush up on your herbal remedy knowledge.
Consider making a special Yule dinner for a pet (before giving them ANY food they don’t usually have, ensure to research whether it is safe for them to eat.
Explore the world of clay crafts; make decorations with protective intent, carve sigils into them.
If you don’t have clay at hand, salt dough is the next best thing. Explore creating ornaments with herbs baked into them for extra magical zing.
Consider environmentally friendly routes of doing your wrapping this year. I’ve often wrapped a gift within another gift. (for example, wrapping an ornament up in a blanket)
If you can’t afford to donate to homeless shelters or any charity of your choice, do volunteer work. Nonprofit organizations are always short-staffed this season.
Create new traditions. Tell stories, insist on weird party games before opening gifts. It’s the small things that your family will remember fondly for years to come.
If you are alone this season, don’t isolate yourself any more than you need to. Look out for events going on in your area. Have a good phone call with a friend. Settle down and watch your favourite film. There’s no reason to force yourself to wallow.
Hotlines are there for a reason. If you need to, use them.
Get your research game on; learn the history of Yule!
Don’t stop there. Search the winter traditions of all cultures and faiths. They can inspire you with new ideas for your own practice.
Practise an old tradition you wouldn’t usually have considered.
Mourn the loss of the sun on the longest day… yet celebrate too, as he returns sooner than you think :)
Yule is a great time to pay homage to work with earth and fire alongside each other in balance. If you’re lacking a meaningful connection to either of these signs, now is the time to make that bond!
Pay homage to the tale of the Holly King and the Oak King by hanging both above your fireplace.