Winter Magic: A Witch's Yule

by Sara Haydon

Winter Magic is a witchy, festive book with a Nordic twist, perfect for anyone seeking to connect with their own magic during the enchanting time of Yule. Readers will be introduced to various Yule spirits and deities both light and dark, gain insight into the pagan origins of recognisable Christmas traditions as well as learn how to create and foster a Yule that honours and celebrates the Winter Solstice and the returning light of the sun.
Winter Magic will show you how

- make pine needle bundles and hand-dipped taper candles for conscious gift-giving

- create the perfect winter altar

- cook a delicious, magical and nourishing witch's soup

- work with intention as you celebrate the Winter Solstice and welcome the new year

- identify the ideal colours, herbs and spices for your practice

Whether you are a seasoned practitioner seeking new insights, or someone curious to delve into the magical practices associated with this festive season, Winter Magic offers a treasury of knowledge and practices to enrich your Winter Solstice celebrations.

Genres: Nonfiction, Witchcraft, Spirituality

180 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2024

About the author

Sara Haydon is a Finnish-born author and advocate for slow, intentional living. Her debut book, Winter Magic: A Witch’s Yule (Atlantic Books, 2024), explores the connections between nature, seasonal living and personal spirituality. After more than a decade in the UK, she returned to Finland, where life beside the forest continues to shape her writing. Her work combines reflective storytelling, imagination and a touch of northern magic.

Reviews

[Amelia Thorne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really nicely written book, lots of knowledge and information has gone into this and is great to cosy up with during the winter season. I particularly love how the book looks on my shelf

[Mark Dickson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn’t connect to the suggestions in this more than I did. I was hoping for more Yuletide rituals that I could pick up (as habits or daily rituals are the perfect anathema for long nights), but it was slightly too New Age-y for my tastes.

[Luminea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a gentle and heartfelt introduction to winter and Yule magic, with an emphasis on Norse traditions and folklore from the author's native Finland. The book is beautifully illustrated by Lauren Georgiou.

I enjoyed learning about Finnish nature spirits and Norse deities, and the Scandinavian recipes. The book includes an overview of the runes and ideas for incorporating them in both protection magic and divination. My favourite chapter was the last one, which discusses snow and ice magic, sun crystals, some basic ideas for working with tree magic, and shares a guided meditation to meet your woodland animal guide. I enjoyed leaning about Nordic berries and their magical properties, especially as lingonberries grow near my own home.

For beginners or those seeking a refresher in witchcraft basics, there was also a lot of reference information, such as: colour symbolism, magical properties of common herbs and spices, energies of the lunar phases, ideas for starting a Book of Shadows, and a 20 page introduction to the Tarot. This surprised me, and personally I would have preferred a deeper dive specifically into winter and Yule magic rather than a broad overview of so many topics.

Overall it was a pleasant read and I am definitely interested in checking out future books by this author.

[Nora Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been looking for a good book about Yule for ages, and this one was both interesting and really informative! What I appreciated most was that it didn’t rely on the same tired suggestions you see everywhere. The author brought a fresh perspective, which is saying a lot since I’ve been practising for 20 years. I especially enjoyed learning about all the Finnish folklore and mythology, it was completely new to me and really quite fascinating.

[Liz Bryne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading about the stories behind some of our Yule traditions. I liked the way the book blended the stories with current practices and gave lots of options for creative ways to connect with and honour the traditions.

[Shelley Faulkner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful book, full of facts and ideas and everything you could need at Christmas time. Perfect as a stocking filler, Secret Santa or a gift for your mystical-self.

[Charlotte Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect accompaniment to my Yule this year. A must read for any witchy types that enjoy seasonal living

[Sara Haydon · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the author of Winter Magic, I’m delighted to share this guide for anyone looking to embrace the magic of Yule and the Winter Solstice, with a touch of Nordic pagan inspiration. While I might be a little biased, I truly believe this is a heartwarming and inspiring read. Seeing how it has brought meaning and magic to so many lives fills me with joy and I hope it continues to spark wonder and connection for all who turn its pages. ❄️

[Noah Haskin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful book with lovely illustrations throughout - perfect for your Yule celebrations! I've already ordered more to gift to friends and family!