The summer solstice, that magical juncture when the sun reaches its highest point, graces us with the longest day of the year. As the Northern Hemisphere tilts toward the sun, we bask in its warmth, celebrating life’s abundance.
In the United Kingdom, the summer solstice is a joyous occasion. Here, the sun’s golden rays invite us outdoors, urging us to revel in its luminous embrace. Stonehenge, that ancient circle of monoliths on Salisbury Plain, becomes a focal point for solstice celebrations.
As dawn breaks, the stones align with the rising sun, creating a mystical spectacle. Druids, pagans, and curious souls gather, feeling the veil between worlds thinning. It’s a moment when we connect with our ancestors, honouring their wisdom and celebrating the cycles of life. We honour the sun’s life-giving energy, flower crowns adorn heads, music and laughter abounds with dancing around bonfires as twilight lingers. It’s a time to celebrate achievements, reflect on growth, and learn from the challenges of the first part of the year.
Having lived in Austria, I recall the enchantment of the Tirolean Alps during the summer solstice. Here, ancient traditions persist, woven into the fabric of the landscape. As twilight deepens, fires ignite atop mountain peaks. Torches flicker, illuminating the rugged terrain. These flames symbolize light overcoming darkness—a beacon of hope for the community.
Villagers gather, sharing stories and laughter, their warmth mirroring the sun’s embrace. Looking forward, the summer solstice invites purpose — a pause in the wheel of time, we peer into the second half of the year, like seeds anticipating growth. What intentions will we nurture? What passions will ignite? It’s a time to set our course, aligning with the sun’s energy.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer aligns with the fire element, and we step into the most Yang phase of the year. Yang energy embodies the masculine, active, and assertive qualities. We are invited to tap into our strength and inner resilience – physical, mental and emotional.
Physically, we are invited to choose activities that invigorate us such as exercise, outdoor adventures, or creative pursuits.
Mentally we might set clear intentions towards our goals, whether that be a project, a relationship, or personal growth, as we choose to channel our energy with purpose.
The heart, our emotional centre, also corresponds to this element. When our heart energy flows harmoniously, we radiate joy. Laughter, the sound of fire, heals our spirit.
But balance is key. Too much fire leads to restlessness; too little dampens joy with bitterness. The masculine energy need not be harsh or forceful. In fact, think of it as the sun’s warmth – gently nurturing life into full bloom. While Yang blazes, Yin (feminine energy) provides the cool shade. When we can nurture both aspects within ourselves —strength and gentleness—we create wholeness.
So, let’s embody the best of Yang: strong, purposeful, and tender and embrace practices that support our vitality:
1. Cooling Foods: Savour melons, cucumbers, and mint teas. They soothe and cool the body.
2. Sun Salutations: Greet the sun with yoga or mindful movement & dance. Let its warmth infuse your being.
3. Kindness: Release grudges; let energy flow freely. Be kind to yourself and others.
As the wheel turns toward the latter part of the year, let joy and connection be our guiding flames. Whether at Stonehenge, on a Tirolean mountaintop, or around a firepit in the garden, let’s celebrate the sun’s warmth, honour ancient customs, and tend to our inner fires. Remember, the solstice reminds us that light prevails, even in the darkest times. Let’s embrace it, heart and soul.
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