Solstice Serenity: Embracing Winter’s Calm

Solstice Serenity: Embracing Winter’s Calm promotional image

Please register here.  BTLC Credit: IS, SEBMH

Presenter: Amy Andreassen

Description: Educators give so much of themselves throughout the year, often reaching the holiday season feeling stretched thin, exhausted, and in need of renewal. The winter solstice offers a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and turn toward the promise of light in the new year. This one-hour webinar is designed to help educators honor this natural turning point with simple, mindful self-care practices that embrace the solstice’s themes of stillness, resilience, and light.

Participants should have available (all items are optional but will be referenced during the webinar)

  • Warm Beverage (Coffee, Tea, or Cocoa) – a soothing, comforting ritual to enjoy during the session
  • Candle or Small Light – a simple, symbolic gesture tied to the solstice theme
  • Journal or Notepad and Pen – for jotting down reflections, affirmations, and personal insights, as well as creating our self-care plan
  • Small Evergreen Branch, Pine Sprig or Pine Cone (does not have to be real) – will serve as a grounding, sensory object, symbolizing resilience and the promise of renewal
  • Cozy Blanket or Sweater – creates a comfortable, nurturing environment as we engage in self-care

Learning Goals: 1) Identify and practice self-care techniques that align with the winter solstice theme, helping educators cultivate moments of calm and resilience during the busy holiday season. 2) Develop a personalized self-care plan with daily practices, reflections, and grounding techniques to support mental and emotional well-being throughout winter. 3) Gain tools to release stress and foster inner peace through simple, actionable mindfulness exercises that educators can incorporate into both their personal lives and teaching practices.

By registering for this event, you agree to be photographed or filmed for promotional purposes. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please email scsmh-main@uiowa.edu and we will work with you to make any accommodations. 

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa–sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Scanlan Center for School Mental Health in advance at 319-467-1120 or scsmh-main@uiowa.edu.