Summer Solstice
Summer solstice is the longest day of the year and typically falls around June 21st - This year, it will be Thursday June 20th, 2024!
Read on to learn about the history and rituals of this energetically powerful day…
Ancient Origins:
Traditionally, Summer Solstice or Midsummer was celebrated by the ancient Celts with a fire festival called “Litha”. Other ancient civilizations like the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians also held festivals to honor the sun at it’s yearly peak and to celebrate the summer harvests. In modern times, the summer solstice continues to be commemorated in many parts of the world with gatherings, music festivals, and ceremonies centered around themes of growth, abundance, and vitality. Traditions vary, but common elements include dancing, feasting, decorating with summer flowers, and connecting with nature. The summer solstice is also associated with themes of inner light and spiritual growth, making it a powerful time for reflection and renewed intentions.
Here are 5 things you can do at home to celebrate Summer solstice:
Make a summer altar with fresh flowers from the garden and candles to represent the Sun/Fire energy.
Host a delicious feast with your garden harvest.
Gather family and friends for a big bonfire... Play games and share stories! You could even have the group write things they wish to release on pieces of paper and burn them all up in the fire to symbolize letting go. This can also be done with a candle if having an outdoor bonfire is not possible.
Wake up early with the sunrise - this day is the most powerfully energetic day of the year and how you set the tone for the day matters! Soak it up and incorporate some gratitude journaling and body movement/yoga to get your energy flowing and thoughts focused.
Listen to positive affirmations/spiritual mantras. Putting on mantras in the background is powerful - they can cleanse and uplift your subconscious without you even lifting a finger!
There are several herbs that are energetically under the “rule” of the Sun that are perfect for incorporating into your Summer Solstice rituals and celebrations…
Herbs of the Sun:
Bay Leaves - for success and prosperity and all-purpose cooking
Calendula - looks like sunshine. Immune boosting and soothing for digestive issues when taken internally. Wonderful as a topical treatment for eczema and other skin conditions.
Chamomile - relaxing and anti-inflammatory
Cinnamon - gives a swift boost for abundance rituals
Along with the herbs, there are also several crystals that are energetically under the “rule” of the Sun that are perfect for incorporating into your Summer Solstice rituals and celebrations…
Crystals of the Sun:
Carnelian - brings passion and creativity
Citrine - known as the Stone of Success, it helps to boost your confidence and determination
Sunstone - brings strength and clarity
Tiger’s Eye - for courage, strength, protection
There is no right or wrong way to celebrate Summer Solstice. Every green witch will eventually find their own way and honor their own rhythms!
“May the long time Sun shine upon you, all love surround you, and the pure light within you guide your way home...”