Happy Summer! We have come to the time of the year again when we feel immensely the nourishing light of the Sun and how it radiates life and warmth to the surrounding compared to any other time. Birds are singing. Plants and trees are bearing fruits. Flowers are blooming with radiant colors. There is just an enthralling scent in the air that invites you to stay outdoors. On June 21, 2023, we are officially entering the Summer Solstice.
The Summer Solstice, marked by the moment that the Sun moves into Cancer and the Earth’s North Pole is tilted closely towards the sun. When this phenomenon happens, the Northern Hemisphere receives more sunlight and we experience the longest day of sunlight of the year. It marks the start of the summer in the northern half of the globe and the beginning of Winter in the Southern Hemisphere.
Coming from the Latin word, solstitium–from sol (Sun) and stitium (still or stopped), the Summer Solstice has long been significant to ancient cultures. It’s been honored as the time when the Earth moves into a cycle of growth and abundance. Gratitude offerings were made to thank or appease the spirits who provide good crops and natural resources.
For the Ancient Egyptians, it was also seen as the New Year and the coming of the star Sirius, where the Nile River would rise to nourish the land to provide food and livelihood to the people. It’s a season of growth, action, and expressing gratitude.
The Summer Solstice also represents our life journey. Just like how the Earth is traveling from the darkness to the light, we trust the eternal flame within us, that despite the uncertainty brighter days are coming soon. Our light of hope can spread all the way to the far end of the globe and inspire others. The glow and warmth also encourage us to set ourselves in motion. Focus our energy on the important things that give us life and meaning. We are life force ourselves. We can nurture others, as much as the Sun nurtures the Earth.
May this Summer Solstice be a period of your transition, renewal, and increased connection to the Source
