Dec 19, 2025 - Environment

Winter solstice: Finding light on the darkest day

Carrie Shepherd

Illustration of a moon with snow throwing up peace signs. — Illustration: Maura Kearns/Axios

The winter solstice — the shortest amount of daylight of the year — falls on Sunday.

Why it matters: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a real affliction that can make the shorter, grayer, more frigid days of winter especially difficult, as decreased light exposure can affect our brain chemicals like serotonin, which helps regulate mood.

Driving the news: The solstice marks the astronomical start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere when Earth's North Pole is tilted farthest from the Sun.

Zoom in: Some possible remedies for SAD include a light box, therapy and practicing good sleep hygiene.

Going to sleep and waking up at about the same time each day will help stave off some of the extra fatigue that accompanies this season.

State of play: Being active and in nature are other ways to activate endorphins. Check out these events happening around Chicago this weekend:

Winter solstice forest bathing (plus singing!) at LaBagh Woods
Winter solstice wellness fair at Jackson Park Yacht Club
A Winter Solstice Celebration of Light, Movement and Sound at yogaview
Winter Solstice Yoga at Moksha Yoga Center
Winter Solstice Concerts at Constellation

The bottom line: The winter solstice is a symbol of rebirth as days get longer, but it's a hard transition for many. Be kind and patient to yourself and others.

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Winter solstice: Finding light on the darkest day

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