Yule is a time of the greatest darkness and is the shortest day of the year. This is the time of death and rebirth of the Sun God. The days are the shortest, the Sun is at its lowest point. The full moon after Yule is considered to to be the most powerful of the whole year. This ritual is a light festival, with as many candles as possible on or near the altar in welcome of the Sun Child.

Element: Earth
Date: December 21
Time: Dawn
Themes: Death and Rebirth

Gods

Greek: Apollo
Roman: Saturn
Persian: Mirthras
Saxon: The Holly King

Goddesses

Norse: Frigg
German: Holda
Celt: Cailleach
Greek: Alcycone

Crystals & Stones

Bloodstone
Clear quartz
Diamond
Emerald
Garnet
Ruby

Intentions

Introspection
Planning for the future
Personal renewal
Peace & harmony
Honoring family & friends
Hope & new beginnings

Incense & Oils

Cedar
Cinnamon
Clove
Frankincense
Juniper
Myrrh
Peppermint
Pine
Sweet Orange

Plants & Herbs

Evergreens
Ginger
Holly
Ivy
Mistletoe
Nutmeg
Rosemary
Saffron
Nutmeg

Yule Charm

To attune with the return of the sun, combine equal parts of bay laurel, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Grind them together and place on a circle of green cloth. Bind it with red thread and carry it with you on the winter solstice. All three herbs are considered to be rules by the sun. This charm will enhance psychic awareness, project positive energy, and emanate a warm and spicy aroma.

From the book, The Wiccan Year by Judy Ann Hock

Yule is derived from the old Norse word for wheel, referring to the moment when the cycle of the year is at its low point, ready to rise again