Summer Solstice: A Pause in the Circle
/It’s hard to imagine that, just as we are entering summer, the days will soon begin to grow shorter. The summer solstice marks the longest day, specifically the longest period of daylight hours of the year, and the astronomical first day of summer for those of us in the northern hemisphere.
The word “solstice” originates from the Latin solstitium: sol (Sun) and stitium (still/stopped). From our earthly perspective, with the sun reaching its northernmost point in the sky and most direct angle, it appears to stop its journey for a time. After the solstice, the daily path of the sun, which had been climbing higher each day, appears to reverse direction, moving lower in the sky and taking us towards fall. The actual date of the solstice varies from year to year, falling between June 20-22. In 2023 the solstice is on June 21.
For thousands of years, people across the globe have celebrated the summer solstice. We have evidence of this in the engineering of ancient archeological sites. One of the most famous celebrations today occurs at Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England. Unexplainably, the ancient people who erected the stones did so in a way that the light of the solstice sunrise aligns perfectly with circle carved in stone at the center of the site. We don’t know for sure what the purpose or purposes of Stonehenge were, but it seems evident that these ancient people honored the summer solstice in some way.
At the pyramids of Chichén Itzá, Mexico, thousands gather twice each year, at the summer and winter solstice, to witness the miracle of engineering which causes the central pyramid of El Castillo to be fully illuminated in sunlight on one side and cast in full shadow on the other. Another instance that clearly shows us that another ancient people, across the globe from Wiltshire, England, erected a monument to shine light on the summer solstice.
Other common, modern traditions include bonfires; feasts, connecting with nature; and singing and dancing, often in a circle.
By celebrating the summer solstice, we recognize and honor just how important the sun, and each day, is.
Here are some ideas for how you might work with the energies of and honor the summer solstice yourself:
Throw a party – or go to one! Gathering with family or friends is a great way to celebrate any special day. Abundant food reminds us to be grateful for the light and warmth, which provides us with food in all forms. A bonfire, a small fire in a chiminea, or even a candle symbolizes the light and heat of the sun.
Artists and creators of all types can honor the solstice by working with themes of light, growth, circles, or fertility.
Meditate on images or ideas related to light, growth, fertility, balance, or stillness.
As the sun balances at its highest point in the sky, we can practice balance. Some even say that we have better balance on the solstice. There are many ways to practice balance – metaphorically and physically. You might choose to be more mindful of balancing your time and energies. You could practice Nadi Shodhanam (Alternate Nostril Breathing) to balance the masculine and feminine energies, or you might focus on balancing postures in your yoga practice or join Ashley Winger for Intro to Balance Practice.
Circles are strong symbols of solstice. Sing or dance in a circle. Meditate with a circle of friends. Join Laurie Wondra’s Solstice Energy Circle and Group Channel Event.
The number 108 is considered a mala, or complete circle. Do 108 repetitions of your favorite mantra, or practice 108 Sun Salutations.
As the sun shifts its path in the sky and the seasons begin to move from summer towards fall, we can use these shifting energies to help facilitate changes in our own lives. Join Valerie Christina for Solstice Tune-Up: Yin Yoga, Acupuncture, and Sound Healing to cleanse your energy field and to awaken and connect to an aligned vision of self.
However you choose to celebrate, I offer you a summer solstice blessing:
As sun warms the earth, and shines its healing light on all of creation, may you stand in your sacred place within the great oneness and receive its blessings.
As the sun pauses in its infinite, spiraling dance, I wish you joy in your dance of living destiny.
