"Native American Indians were a deeply spiritual people and they communicated their history, thoughts, ideas and dreams from generation to generation through Symbols and Signs such as the Winter symbol. Native American symbols are geometric portrayals of celestial bodies, natural phenomena and animal designs. The meaning of the Winter symbol was to signify the passing of time. A clever, simple way to symbolize and record the passing of time. The Native Indians had no clocks but used the environment to measure time. Sunset and sunrise organized the parameters of the day. The cycles of nature, the cold and warm seasons, organized task related work especially agricultural life such as the planting seasons. Rituals and special ceremonies were also scheduled by nature.
Native American Indians have celebrated both Solstices and equinoxes from ancient times as deeply meaningful. Many Native American stone structures are aligned with the position of the Sun. The Hopi tribe mark this time with the Soyal ceremony which lasts for 20 days and includes blessings and purification rituals. The Pueblo tribe celebrate the Winter Solstice with rites focusing on Spring and rebirth. Other Native American tribes celebrate the winter solstice with rituals such as the Bear Dance, the Feather Dance and the Navajo Night Chant."
From: https://www.warpaths2peacepipes.com/native-american-symbols/winter-symbol.htm