Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Christmas, Yule, Diwali, and the celebration of Buddha’s enlightenment all take place in December, the darkest time of the year. All of these festivals have one thing in common: they focus on light and renewal. Think of all the words about light that fill us with hope: radiant, brilliant, glowing, warm. It is a special joy to imagine these light-filled celebrations taking place throughout the world.

In the spirit of creating more warmth, more light, and more loving intimacy in our own lives and homes, we offer you these lovely ways to make the season merry and bright–safely and naturally. Find out some simple light-based rituals to do with your loved ones, which candles are the healthiest to burn, and more. It’s all about light, right here:

Seven Easy, Energizing Ways to Light Up the Holidays.

The best candles to burn and why: The Brilliant Beeswax Candle: Natural Air Purifiers and More.

For a fun holiday project, see Make Safe Candles Yourself.

Or you could make Handmade Luminaria. It’s easy.