In this blog post, our founder Sóley Elíasdóttir reflects on the meaning of Christmas from an Icelandic perspective.
The Christmas season in Iceland is a time of stillness, warmth and deep connection to nature. As the days grow shorter and darkness settles over the land, we naturally slow down. We gather with loved ones, light candles and create warmth in our homes and hearts. Christmas in Iceland is all about traditions, family dinners, cozy evenings and thoughtful gifts.
In Iceland, the word for Christmas is Jól. The word Jól reaches far beyond Christianity. It is deeply rooted in nature and means the return of the light.
Around the 21st of December, we experience the shortest day of the year and the longest night. Darkness reaches its deepest stillness. Then, quietly and almost imperceptibly, the light begins to return. Each day grows a little longer, and this turning point has been honored in Iceland for centuries.
Jól has its origins in ancient Norse mythology, where the winter solstice marked a celebration of rebirth, renewal and hope — much like the meaning of baby Jesus in Christianity. Fires were lit, candles were burned and people gathered together to honor the cycles of nature, trusting that the sun would return, just as we do today at Christmas. In a land shaped by extremes, the return of light carries deep meaning. It reminds us that in the darkest season, life is resting beneath the surface, gathering strength and preparing to awaken again.
At Sóley Organics, this season reflects everything we stand for. Winter is a time of rest and renewal for the land, the body and the soul. Icelandic nature may appear quiet beneath snow and frost, but it holds incredible strength and purity. This is the essence we carefully capture in our products: wild Icelandic herbs, clean formulations and deep respect for nature’s rhythm.
From all of us at Sóley Organics, we wish you a lot of love and peaceful Jól — filled with warmth, light and well-being.
