Happy Holidays

The holiday season is upon us and the happiness and cheer that permeates this time of year is infectious. Many of us have been busy preparing for the big day. We have been following traditions that are both universally shared as well as unique to each family. Did you know that many of the universally shared traditions are, in truth, borrowed from ancient winter solstice celebrations?

“The winter solstice was originally a Pagan holiday that was celebrated on the day of the shortest daylight and longest night. The pagan holiday was called Yule in Scandinavia, lasted twelve days and created the custom of burning a yule log to celebrate the rebirth of the sun since after the winter solstice the days gradually get longer again.” 1

Many of the traditions that have been adopted from times past include the decorating of evergreen trees, eating elaborate meals, imbibing in drink, hanging holly and mistletoe (though for different reasons) and if possible, enjoying a roaring fire. The tradition of gift giving though is unique to more modern times (since around the 1800s) and was not part of the original winter solstice celebrations. It really is the traditions and spending time with family that make Christmas so special! 

Christmas Trivia

Question: What two things made red and green popular Christmas colors? 

Answer: Holly and Coca-Cola. While the tradition of red and green holly dates back to Roman winter solstice celebrations, the Coca-Cola company also played a role. The soda makers popularized the plump and jolly red-suit-wearing Santa in an ad in 1931. 2

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Ki Lifestyle Solutions! Please contact us in the new year to register for any of our programs or services, or if you require further information. Contact Carell at carell@kilifestyle.ca or visit our website at kilifestyle.ca/contact. Inspire, Heal, Grow! Namaste!

1 Lipzinski, Aemili. “Where does the tradition of gift giving come from anyway?” mtulode.com, The Lode: The Student Newspaper at Michigan Technological University Since 1921, December 7, 2018, https://mtulode.com/2739/pulse/where-does-the-tradition-of-gift-giving-come-from-anyway/.

2 Mattern, Jessica Leigh. “27 Best Christmas Trivia Questions to Impress your Family This Holiday: How many do you know?” countryliving.com, December 10, 2021, https://www.countryliving.com/life/g23461993/christmas-trivia/.