When the day stretches to its longest, when the Sun is bright, pure and intense, we know that Summer Solstice is here! (Happy Winter Solstice to my southern hemisphere readers!)
We listen to nature, that is why we wrapped up in the Winter dreaming in the dark; so that now we can shine like the Sun: unquestioned, unreserved.
The name Solstice derives from the Latin words for sun, “sol”, and “sistere”, meaning “to stop” or “to stand still”.
For so many countries and tribes around the world, Solstice has both cultural and spiritual significance.
In many western countries, Summer Solstice marks the beginning of Summer, which signals the shifting of the seasons. While in the East such as China, with a slightly different four-season pattern, Summer Solstice means mid-summer.
The Mayans and Aztecs used this day in building many of their important structures to ensure that they would be in alignment with the sun’s position. Countless indigenous tribes celebrate the longest day of the year with their own sun dance rituals.
Below are some Summer Solstice celebrations from around the world. Which one is for you?
The mystic style: Britain
At Stonehenge, thousands of people, many of whom travel from miles away, gather and celebrate the day as the sun rises. As an energy portal, a sacred site, Stonehenge transmits healing energy. On Summer Solstice, it also offers such a spectacular view that makes us even more curious about the world.
The poetic style: Russia
The Russians organise their White Nights Festival, where Ballet and Opera are performed and people enjoy the eternal twilight that would normally only be in a fairy tale.
The “secret” style: Iceland
Iceland hosts a “secret” three-day music festival on this day. Where there is rhythm and cheering under the midnight Sun, what else do you need?
The wild style: Sweden
In Sweden, people gather friends and family to enjoy fresh strawberries, smoked fish and pickled herring. Plenty of beer will be present too. Some decorate their houses with floral wreaths. They might also light bonfires to ward off anything negative or unpleasant entities.
The Oriental style: China
In ancient China, people noticed the importance of Yin (Feminine) within the most Yang (Masculine) day in the year, cultivating Yin during the brightest day. Even until now, ceremonies are still widely performed to honour the Yin-Yang relationship.
Many places in China also celebrate this day with a Dragon Boat festival and eat noodles.
How will you celebrate Summer Solstice in your country/community/faith?
To your light,
Yiye
