Imagine a world where the sun shines endlessly, and darkness never falls. I got to experience this very phenomenon firsthand on my trip to Iceland last June, where I discovered a boundless reserve of energy within me. While at times I felt like the Energizer Bunny who could keep going and going, the experience taught me to listen closely to my body and to honor the rest it craved amidst the day's never-ending glow.
The Summer Solstice reminds us to embrace the light around us while acknowledging the light within, "as above, so below." It is about recognizing the growth and abundance of the season and our unique internal transformation, being mindful of striking a balance between fun and play, and recharging our senses.
As we approach the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, here are three meaningful rituals to help you celebrate this special day.
Create a Summer Altar
A great way to honor the sun is to create an altar to remind you of the sun's abundance and life-giving energy, your intentions for the coming months, and a space for reflection.
First, choose a spot that feels special to you. It could be a windowsill that catches the morning sun, a quiet corner in your home, or an outdoor space like a garden or patio.
Next, gather your materials. This can include:
Candles: Yellow, gold, or white candles to symbolize the sun's energy and light.
Crystals: Citrine, sunstone, clear quartz, and amber to amplify solar energy, positivity, and clarity.
Fresh Flowers: Sunflowers, marigolds, daisies, or any bright, vibrant blooms that represent the fullness of summer.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary, lavender, sage, or mint. These herbs can be used for their fragrance and symbolic meanings of purification, protection, and health.
Symbols of the Sun: Sun-shaped decorations, gold coins, or anything that represents the sun to you.
Nature Items: Shells, feathers, stones, branches or summer harvests like strawberries, peaches, tomatoes, and other fruits and vegetables, representing the earth's abundance and nature's bounty.
A Mirror: A small mirror to symbolize reflection and self-awareness.
Now it's time to think about how you'd like to arrange the objects you gathered on your altar. Consider starting with the tallest/largest item or favorite item in the center and then building out from there.
Once your altar is set, light the candles and sit quietly in front of it. Take a few deep breaths to ground yourself and, in your mind's eye, focus on the flames, feeling the connection between you and the fire element. In silence, think about the things that bring you joy, visualize the surge of energy they give you, and take a moment to express gratitude for all the blessings in your life. Feel free to use this altar as your meditation space in the coming months or simply for deep reflection when needed.
Have a Fire Ceremony
The sun, a symbol of fire, represents transformation and renewal. What better way to honor this luminary than to perform a fire ceremony? This powerful ritual allows you to release what no longer serves you and manifest your desires.
To begin, write down anything you wish to release on a piece of paper. Consider this prompt: "What emotional or physical baggage do I need to release?"
Next, light a small fire, either outdoors or indoors, using a fireproof bowl.
Place the paper in the fire, visualizing the release of these burdens. While doing this ritual, consider reciting this short saying to seal your intention: "I burn these feelings/stories/etc., away. Let them become dust, leaving room for joy and new blessings in my heart."
Finally, write down new intentions for the second half of the year, including steps you can take to bring these goals to life. Be sure to place these aspirations in a central area in your home to be reminded regularly of them and ensure you're taking action where needed.
Reenergize with a Sun Meditation
Take a few moments in your day to revitalize your energy with a sun-focused meditation. If you can, do this meditation outside or near a window to reap the benefits of the sunlight.
We hope you find these rituals helpful for forging a deeper connection with yourself and the potent power of the longest day of the year.
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