This special solo episode with Dr. Gertrude welcomes the upcoming winter solstice. Instead of fearing or avoiding the darker months ahead, Dr. Gertrude shares ways to embrace, learn from, and even look forward to this darker part of the year.  Dr. Gertrude examines the solstice's inherent feminine power. Just as the womb nurtures, so do the dark months. These metaphors add layers of meaning to the winter as a time of deep introspection and an understanding that the lyrical mystery of the darkness is simple to embrace.  The wisdom of the dark goddess is present across cultures, such as Kali, Morrígan, Persephone, and Ereshkigal, each symbolizing states of life, death, rebirth, and magic. Their archetypal energies are available to tap into at all times.  Though it is easy to become swept up in the busyness of the holiday season, Dr. Gertrude reminds us to balance rest with activity. The longest night of the year ushers in a time to consider the year’s harvest, what’s worked and what hasn’t, rest, pause, and take stock of all we have accomplished. From this rested state, we can more clearly locate our dreams and consider our metrics for success.  Dr. Gertrude concludes by encouraging listeners to sit and be still with the darkness. Meditate, let your intentions include excavating the dreams of your unconscious, honor the solstice, journal, listen in, and most importantly, rest. Episode Outline: (03:07) The darkness of winter solstice  (09:31) The Solstice’s Feminine power   (13:49) Dark goddess: life, death, rebirth (17:09) Kali, Morrígan, Persephone, and Ereshkigal (22:12) Working with winter (28:37) What are my metrics for success? (32:33) Interplay of light and dark Resources Referenced: Waking Up To The Dark by Clark Strand Irish Pagan School Connect with Dr. Gertrude  Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s website Follow Dr. Gertrude on Instagram Stay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s newsletter Mentioned in this episode: Learn more about the 2024 Spring Equinox Self-Mothering Retreat at https://www.drgertrudelyons.com/spring-equinox-24