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
Calendula officinalis
Calendula is among the most spiritually significant herbs. Garlands of calendula are used as a protective charm. The blossoms are used for protections against nightmares.
characteristics
The bright yellow flowers of the calendula plant have been used to produce die, to flavor food, and even to impart an attractive yellow hue to cheese. Calendula is native to Southern Europe and takes its name from “calends”, also known as the first of the month in the ancient Roman calendar.The blossoms of calendula officinalis open in the morning and follow the Sun, closing in the late afternoon.
history
Calendula is cited in both the Ayurveda tradition as well as in traditional Chinese medicine. In medieval times, calendula was regarded as a magical herb as well as a medicinal and culinary herb. Used ritually in the classical Greco Roman world, calendula is seen in the garlands that adorn deities of the Hindu faith as well as an offerings to ancestors on the day of the dead in Central America. For the Romans, calendula was a symbol of joy.
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
Carnelian is associated with vitality, physical strength, power, passion and creativity. It’s name is derived from the Latin word “carnis” meaning flesh and it is a member of the Chalcedony family. The color can range from deep red to orange-yellow, often swirled together in beautiful patterns.
Beloved by the ancient Egyptians for it’s power, Carnelian can assist with positive life choices and accepting the cycles of life and death. It’s linked to the sacral chakra, which is the energy center responsible for emotions and sexuality and trusting yourself. Also regarded as the “Artist’s Stone” because it fosters passion and creativity.
Physically, it has been known to help balance issues with blood, whether that be reproductive issues, or nosebleeds and headaches.
Associated with the Sun and the Zodiac signs Taurus, Cancer, Leo and Scorpio.
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...”