| Today marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, with the Earth’s 23.5-degree tilt most directly oriented towards the sun. For those in Alaska, this means that the sun will continue to shine for 24 hours a day until early August. But for residents of the continental United States, June 21st, 2018 will simply be a slightly longer day than usual (between 13.5 to 16 hours of daylight; compared to 8.5 to 10.5 hours on the shortest day of the year). Pretty boring from a scientific standpoint. But there is quite a rich history surrounding the Midsummer holiday. Pagans, astrologists, and yogis all find unique ways to celebrate this turning point of the seasons. Summer Solstice has something interesting to say to all of us. There are many themes that give the Solstice merit in today’s world, but here are three of them. |  The sun shines on a statue of an Olympic discus thrower outside of the Panathenaikon Stadium in Athens, Greece. Photo taken by a friend in 2018. |
- Time to plan for the harvest
For six months, the days have been getting longer and longer. That will start to reverse after today, as days begin to draw inward. What are your goals and aspirations for the next sixth months? What have you sewn in the previous six months, and how will you plan to reap when harvest comes?
The Solstice is a good time to take stock, and to reflect on what you want to nurture. Think about three to five things you really want to see growth in. Maybe it’s getting a regular workout routine established, or creating a greater sense of community within your company. Maybe it’s as simple as not allowing Netflix to play the next episode. The specifics rarely matter – it’s the act of planning and sticking to your goals that will lead to better habits when you prioritize for more major objectives. - Rid yourself of darkness
The proportion of people who actually do spring-cleaning is probably much lower than the proportion of people who talk about doing it. The Solstice could be your second shot. As people around the world light bonfires and dance around the flames, you might think about what you would like to burn away in your life.
Are you storing an old project that you’ve started and now sits unfinished? A toxic relationship? Some of those time-wasting games and apps on your phone? Take time to look at the thoughts and things that are occupying your mental space without paying rent. Surrounding yourself with good support in a comfortable environment may be the key to having better health and managing your stress. - Unite your inner fire with your outer fire
Perhaps the symbols of enlightenment and awakening emphasized during the Solstice will compel you to merge your inner creative passions with your outer resources. Think about those things that set your soul on fire. How can you shine your light into the world productively, and with the outcomes you desire? You do not need to live many separate lives and dread the person you are at work each day. Quitting the corporate world and becoming my own boss has allowed me the chance to explore my passions, but nothing says you have to do anything that dramatic.
Ask yourself: Am I living my life fully in the way I want to be? If the answer is no, consider change. And if you need extra inspiration, watch the sunrise or sunset and reflect on how beautiful this crazy world we live in is.
For more on the science of the solstice: https://weather.com/holiday/summer/news/2018-06-20-summer-solstice-first-day-summer-northern-hemisphere-june
And for more on the history: https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/977071/Summer-Solstice-2018-astrology-zodiac-signs-meaning; https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/3848159/litha-2018-summer-solstice-blessings-rituals-pagans/
Summer Solstice 2018: Facts to Know About the Longest Day of the Year
https://weather.com/holiday/summer/news/2018-06-20-summer-solstice-first-day-summer-northern-hemisphere-june
Summer Solstice 2018 astrology: What does the solstice mean for your zodiac sign?
https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/977071/Summer-Solstice-2018-astrology-zodiac-signs-meaning
When is Litha 2018 and what summer solstice blessings and traditions do pagans follow on the longest day of the year? https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/3848159/litha-2018-summer-solstice-blessings-rituals-pagans/
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