MAJOR. NEW. GOAL
Don't you know what a Christmas polaz is? It is an old Czech decoration hung from the ceiling. It has the shape of a ball and is filled with natural objects. It should hang properly from the solstice, i.e. from December 21st. It represents the sun and is supposed to symbolize abundance and health. It is a reminder of an old pagan holiday (koleda). It comes from the word "polazit" or to walk around caroling.
I saw them in photos of folk Christmas scenes in Czech museums and between google translate and a Facebook page for Czech descendants managed to dig up some information.
It is a tradition not only in Czechia, but in Slovakia, Poland, and also in the Balkans.
You will be able to create this traditional decoration during one of the rituals that you create at home. Play carols, scent your apartment with Christmas spice oil, or for adults, add a glass of mulled wine.
The polaz resembles a hedgehog that children used to receive from Baby Jesus. It was an apple in which various types of dried fruit, nuts, and even puffed peas were stuck on twigs:
The polaz is a slightly larger variant and represents a more massive decoration.
The round base used to be an apple, potato or dough. You can also use an orange, grapefruit, moss or polystyrene ball that you cover with fabric. First, make a hole through the ball. Thread a string through it and finish it off with a bead or bow at the bottom. Leave an eyelet at the top for hanging. Cut the skewers in half and thread decorations onto them. What you use is up to you. For example, dried peel from oranges or tangerines, which you cut out while still fresh with small cookie cutters. Dried apples, rose hips are also suitable, you can use various bows. You can stick in twigs of conifers and other green decorations from nature.
