Hi Readers,
First, I would like to say for those celebrating today I hope you are all having a blessed summer solstice If you are in the northern hemisphere and a blessed Winter solstice If you are in the Southern. Summer is one of my favorite seasons along with spring and I love the Sun. I love everything about summer from the longer days outdoors, going to the beach If I have a chance, and spending time outside. Also, I work with the Sun magically as well.
One thing I have always done since I started practicing on both the summer and winter solstices is to watch the Sunrise. I believe it is a simple and effective way to mark the occasion. Also, I try to incorporate fire into my celebration If I can. Since most of this time revolves around fire not just because of what I have read but because I know lots of people who go camping, have bonfires, or do something else around this time of year. For me personally fire symbolizes the light and longer days ahead. Another aspect to the summer solstice is also making sure to remember that even though the days are longer they will not always be eventually the days will become gradually shorter. Further, I feel like water is a large part of this day as well. I feel like the Solstice is a good time for reflecting on projects, goals, and anything coming up in the near or distant future. I try to do divination during this time as well because I feel like it is a good way to see what is possibly in store for the rest of the year. Further, I feel it allows us to gain insight on current projects or anything we are working on for further direction. Meditation is also useful in determining direction and for gaining insight. Meditation allows us to reflect on ourselves, goals, and helps us to determine our purpose.
As far as celebrations on my end I have been celebrating in different ways from having a small fire, watching the Sunrise, performing divination to understand some of the various aspects of my life, and so forth. Also, for me the celebration does not always have to be really elaborate either. However, I will say that I do enjoy ritual. I do rituals such as watching the sunrise which is a ritual because I have a specific set of steps that I usually follow when I start, during, and when I have completed it.
Finally, anytime I celebrate either the winter or summer solstice If I can I will try to invite family and friends for breakfast or lunch. One year, a friend of mine and I celebrated the winter solstice by cooking various seasonal foods and drink. Even If not all my friends and family practice it is nice to share the event and have company. So, these are just some ways I like to celebrate. If you are celebrating the summer or winter solstice, what do you do? Do you have anything specific or does it change? Feel free to leave a comment!!
Many blessings!!