Winter solstice traditions

Did you do anything for the winter solstice yesterday? Is it popular/normal to celebrate it back in your country of origin?

I have to be honest – before living here I don't think I ever paid attention to the solstice dates. Most people in Australia simply say that summer is December through February, and winter is June through August, without even being wedded to the official solstice dates indicating the start of a new season.

I like that there's such a focus on seasonality here, and I've grown to appreciate the little traditions that come with certain times of the year. 

The most popular winter solstice tradition I know of here is the yuzu bath, which is said to have a purifying and invigorating effect on the body and offers a way to stay warm during the winter season.

Pic Credit: Nori Norisa/CC By 2.0