As we approach the end of the year, we are also entering the darkest days of the year. This period, leading up to the winter solstice, is characterized by the shortest days and longest nights of the year. This year, the winter solstice will occur on Tuesday, December 21.
The winter solstice marks the point in time when the tilt of the Earth's axis is farthest away from the sun. This results in the shortest day, with the least amount of daylight, and the longest night of the year. In Chicago, for example, the sun will rise at 7:16 a.m. and set at 4:23 p.m. on the day of the solstice, providing just over 9 hours of daylight. However, the amount of daylight varies depending on the location. The further north you go, the less daylight you will see.
This period of darkness can have a significant impact on people's mood and well-being. It's not uncommon for individuals to experience a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons. SAD starts and ends at about the same times every year, starting in fall and continuing into the winter months, sapping energy and making people feel moody. Light therapy, psychotherapy, and medications can help manage symptoms.
Despite the darkness, the winter solstice is a time of celebration for many cultures around the world. It has been recognized and honored with festivals, rituals, and activities that celebrate the promise of the return of light. Today, many people celebrate the solstice with gatherings, art, music, and food. The solstice is also often regarded as the first day of winter, even though meteorological winter begins on December 1.
After the solstice, the days will gradually start to get longer again, a process that will continue until the summer solstice in June, the longest day of the year. Despite the darkness, the winter solstice serves as a reminder that longer, brighter days are on the horizon.