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Embracing the Summer Solstice

Writer's picture: Anne TaylorAnne Taylor



Every year between the 20th and 21st of June, the earth tilts its closest to the sun, marking the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, filling our world with the most daylight. The summer solstice is not just a marvel of nature but also a profound opportunity for personal wellness and self-care. This ancient event can serve as a powerful reminder to harness the energy of the sun, nurture our well-being, and embrace the natural rhythms of life.



Origins


The word “solstice” is derived from the Latin words "sol" (sun) and "sistere" (to stand still), reflecting the sun’s seeming pause in the sky. Throughout history, cultures around the world have revered this day with various rituals and celebrations.


The Ancient Celts and Druids celebrated with bonfires and dancing to honour the sun’s power and to ensure a bountiful harvest. Stonehenge, the iconic prehistoric monument in England, is aligned with the sunrise on the summer solstice, suggesting its importance to ancient peoples.





In Scandinavia, Midsummer festivities include maypole dancing, flower crowns, and feasts, celebrating fertility and the abundance of nature. In China, the summer solstice is linked to the yin, celebrating the balance of yin and yang, and the shifting energies of the universe.








The Summer Solstice and wellness


The summer solstice is more than an astronomical event; it’s a celebration of light, growth, and renewal. This moment of peak sunlight can be a powerful time to reflect, recharge, and realign our lives with nature’s cycles. Here are some ways to use the solstice for your well-being:


1. Sun salutations & yoga

Engage in a series of sun salutations (Surya Namaskar) at dawn or dusk. This ancient yoga practice honours the sun and helps synchronise your body’s rhythms with nature. It’s a beautiful way to cultivate mindfulness, flexibility, and strength.



2. Outdoor meditation & mindfulness

Find a serene outdoor spot and meditate, focusing on the warmth of the sun and the sounds of nature around you. This practice can enhance your connection to the earth and help centre your mind and spirit.



3. Nature walks & grounding

Take a walk in a park, forest, or by the beach. Walking barefoot on grass or sand, known as grounding, can help you absorb the earth’s energy, reduce stress, and improve your mood.



4. Do a digital detox

Take a break from screens and technology. Spend the day connecting with yourself, loved ones, and the natural world. Use this time to reset and recharge.





The summer solstice is a powerful reminder of the light within and around us. By embracing the traditions and symbolism of this ancient celebration, you can tap into the sun’s energy to foster personal growth, wellness, and self-care.


Let this solstice be a time to honour your journey, nurture your spirit, and bask in the beauty of the season. Celebrate your light and let it shine brightly into the world!



Take care,

Anne x



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