Embracing the Summer Solstice: Celebrating and Living in Harmony with the Season

The summer solstice, the longest day of the year, is a time to celebrate the abundance of light and warmth that the sun brings into our lives. This pivotal moment marks the height of summer and offers a wonderful opportunity to connect deeply with nature, celebrate its bounty, and align ourselves with the rhythms of the season. Here, we explore meaningful ways to celebrate the solstice, herbs that support us during summer, ways to connect with nature, recommended summer reads, and ideas for living seasonally.

Ways to Celebrate the Summer Solstice

1. Sun Salutations:

Sun salutations, or Surya Namaskar, are a series of yoga poses performed in a sequence to greet the sun. Practicing these at sunrise or sunset on the solstice can be a beautiful way to foster gratitude, become fully present in the moment and enhance physical well-being. You can download a free guide to sun salutations here.  

2. Solstice Feasts:

Gather friends and family for a solstice feast that celebrates summer's harvest. Include seasonal fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs. Consider dining outdoors to fully embrace the season's vibrancy.

3. Bonfire Celebrations:

Lighting a bonfire is a traditional way to honor the solstice. The fire symbolizes the sun at its peak power. Gather around the fire to share stories, sing songs, and reflect on your intentions for the rest of the year.

 4. Nature Walks and Hikes:

Celebrate the solstice by immersing yourself in nature. Take a walk or hike in a nearby park, forest, or beach. Use this time to observe and appreciate the beauty of the natural world in full bloom.

Herbs to Support During Summer

1. Peppermint:

Peppermint is cooling and refreshing, making it an ideal herb for hot summer days. It aids digestion and can be enjoyed as a tea or added to salads and beverages.

2. Basil:

Basil is a versatile herb that thrives in summer. It supports digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. Use it fresh in salads, pesto, and various dishes to add flavor and health benefits.

3. Lemon Balm:

Lemon balm is calming and soothing. It can help with anxiety and improve sleep. Enjoy it as a tea or infused in cold water for a refreshing summer drink.

4. Calendula:

Calendula, also known as marigold, is excellent for skin health. Use it in salves and creams to soothe sunburns, rashes, and other skin irritations.

Check out our tea blends for refreshing herbal tea options!

For a limited time only our Summer Wellness Bundle is available!

Flower Essences for Summer Support

 Sunflower (Helianthus annuus): This essence is ideal for enhancing self-confidence and vitality, helping you to shine brightly like the summer sun, and promoting a balanced sense of individuality and purpose.

Honeysuckle (Lonicera caprifolium): This essence supports emotional well-being by helping to release nostalgia and fully embrace the present moment, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and experiences of the summer season with an open heart.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Dandelion essence is excellent for relieving physical and emotional tension, promoting relaxation and ease in the body, and helping you to adapt to the dynamic energy of summer activities with greater flexibility and flow.

Ways to Connect with Nature During Summer

1. Gardening:

Whether you have a backyard or a small balcony, gardening is a wonderful way to connect with nature. Planting and tending to herbs, flowers, and vegetables can be a meditative and rewarding experience.

2. Forest Bathing:

Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is the practice of immersing oneself in a forest environment. This practice has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. Find a local forest or wooded area and spend time mindfully observing and experiencing the natural surroundings.

3. Beachcombing:

Visit a nearby beach to enjoy the ocean's soothing sounds and sights. Collect seashells, stones, and driftwood, and take a moment to appreciate the vastness of the sea.

4. Stargazing:

Summer nights are perfect for stargazing. Find a dark spot away from city lights, lay on a blanket, and watch the stars. Use a star map or an app to identify constellations and planets.

5. Birdwatching:

Bird watching during the summer offers a vibrant display of avian life, as many species are most active and visible during this season, showcasing their breeding plumage and unique behaviors. Additionally, the warm weather and longer daylight hours provide ideal conditions for spending extended periods outdoors, immersing oneself in nature and enhancing mental well-being. Download the Merlin app from Cornell Lab of Ornithology to record the birds and identify which birds are singing around you.

6. Nature Journaling:

Nature journaling during the summer allows you to capture the rich diversity of flora and fauna in full bloom, providing an excellent opportunity to document and appreciate the dynamic changes in the natural world. The longer days and pleasant weather make it easier to spend extended periods outdoors, fostering a deeper connection with nature and enhancing mindfulness and observation skills. You do not need to be an artist to nature journal since journals can be all words describing what you see, smell, hear or you can draw quick sketches to capture it. I highly recommend Alex Boones Nature Journaling Circle if you want to get started, it’s a low-cost monthly subscription with loads of tutorials, live events and community!

 Books to Read During Summer

1. "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer:

This beautifully written book blends indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and the teachings of plants. It's a perfect summer read that encourages readers to deepen their relationship with nature.

2. "The Hidden Life of Trees" by Peter Wohlleben:

Wohlleben's book offers a fascinating look into the secret world of trees and their communication. It’s an engaging read for anyone interested in forest ecosystems and the interconnectedness of nature.

3. "Where the Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens

This captivating novel blends a coming-of-age story with a mystery set in the marshes of North Carolina, making it an ideal summer read with its vivid descriptions of nature and compelling narrative.

4. "The Summer Book" by Tove Jansson

This beautifully written book follows the simple, yet profound, summer adventures of a grandmother and her granddaughter on a small Finnish island, offering readers a tranquil escape and a deep appreciation for the small moments of life.

 Ideas for Living Seasonally During Summer

1. Seasonal Eating:

Focus on consuming fresh, local, and seasonal produce. Visit farmers' markets to find the best summer fruits and vegetables. Incorporate salads, smoothies, and light meals that keep you cool and hydrated.

2. Outdoor Activities:

Take advantage of the longer days by spending more time outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, cycling, or simply picnicking in the park, engaging in outdoor activities can boost your mood and overall health.

3. Mindful Rest:

Balance the active energy of summer with periods of rest and relaxation. Take midday breaks to avoid the hottest part of the day. Enjoy siestas, practice mindfulness, and ensure you get enough sleep to rejuvenate your body and mind.

4. Sustainable Living:

Summer is a great time to adopt more sustainable practices. Reduce energy consumption by using natural light, dry clothes on a line instead of using a dryer, and conserve water by watering plants in the early morning or late evening.

Conclusion

The summer solstice is a time of joy, celebration, and connection with nature. By embracing these practices, you can align yourself with the season's rhythms, enhance your well-being, and celebrate the abundant light and warmth. Whether through celebrations, herbal support, nature immersion, summer reading, or seasonal living, let the solstice guide you toward a more harmonious and fulfilling summer.