Trimming a Spiritual Yule Tree
Evergreen Decoration Ideas for the Pagan Home
Since tree trimming predates the celebration of Christmas, Pagans can incorporate this cherished tradition by following the theme of Nature in winter.
Incorporating Yule into the home is probably the easiest and most cheerful part of any NeoPagan faith, due to its familiarity. Even though Wicca is only a little more than fifty years old and much of the ancient Pagan and Heathen customs have become lost over the centuries, those who have newly embraced such faiths may find themselves at a loss as to how to prepare for the upcoming holidays. Fortunately, Yule (or Winter Solstice) has been handed down throughout the ages.
Choosing a Tree
Three types of trees are available, and Pagans should consider their choice in order to align with their personal beliefs. Living trees are best and can be planted outdoors after the holiday is over but tend to be limiting in size. Cut trees can be purchased or sought after and can be recycled into mulch, and they offer wood for fireplaces as well as for Yule logs. However, they must be maintained to prevent drying out and tend to scatter falling needles just about everywhere. Then there are the artificial trees, which, while they can be used year after year, are rarely biodegradable and can prove disastrous for those who suffer from dust allergies.
Tree Lights
Use tiny white lights in which some twinkle, as those seem to best mimic the clear winter night’s sky. String in no more than three or four layers, depending on the tree‘s size, since the lights are intended to be accents and not overwhelming. Start by stringing the first layer deep inside the tree, add a second in the center and a third to accent the branch tips.
Light-catching Ornaments
By sprinkling silver glitter over scented pine cone tips dabbed with glue, festive and natural ornaments can be created, can be used for several holidays to come and also make wonderful gifts. Also, consider incorporating glass icicles and snowflakes for the tree, since ice and snow glisten in Nature when delicate light touches them.
Animal-themed Ornaments
In spite of the cold, many birds and woodland critters adapt to the changing climate. Therefore, having ornaments in their images is fitting for a Yule tree. Cardinals, goldfinches and blue jays are all winter birds that feature brilliant plumage, serving as ideal models for tree ornaments. Rabbits, mice and deer are also common, as are their predators the foxes, wolves and wildcats. Find or create ornaments that signify how these creatures spend their winters, and hang the birds in the higher bows and the four-footers below.
Other Ideas
If the illusion of snow is desired, pulled cotton balls can be used in substitution for angel hair, which is made from fiberglass and may not align with many Pagans’ viewpoints. Binding holly on branches serves as an excellent accent and also reflects the Holly King. Topping the tree with a fairy instead of an angel can also be incorporated, as can a star to signify the rebirth of the sun. Of course, adding family keepsakes and children’s craft projects is always welcome, as no holiday is worth celebrating without kith and kin.
