If you’ve been following us for a while, or if you’ve maybe joined some of our offerings, you might have noticed that we love rituals! And we love them even more when they honor the feminine through intentional connection with nature. As we are only a few days away from the summer solstice, prepare yourself to transition into a new season of your life. Learn about the scientific aspects of this astronomical event, as well as ancient celebrations, and modern rituals to connect with Mother Earth and support your feminine.
What happens on the summer solstice?
Before jumping into any ritual, it is important to understand where they come from. Any ancient practice has a history that can help us understand their purpose, and how we can best benefit from them. Going back to their origins is also a way to honor the ancestors who have been their guardians, sometimes for thousands of years, before passing them down to us.
So, what happens on the summer solstice?
What you might already know, is that this once-in-a-year event marks the beginning of summer. And contrary to what one might assume, the Sun will be at its furthest point from the Earth. In fact, it is not the proximity with the sun that allows us to feel its warmth, but the inclination of our planet. On June 20th, 2024, the Sun will be facing the northern hemisphere, allowing it to bathe in its light for the longest time. The lands and oceans will be storing heat to be released in the following months.
Not only this day will be the longest of the year, but the sunrise and sunset will be extensive. And if you love nature’s gifts as much as we do, you must be looking forward to these enchanting moments!
Depending on the year, the natural occurrence is expected to fall at any time between June 20th and 22nd. From that point, the days will start getting shorter, but not cooler.
Above the Arctic Polar Circle, the sun won’t even set. Some parts of this region live in daylight for several months. This phenomenon is called the “Midnight Sun” and is best observed from the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard. From about April 20th to August 22nd, the sun flirts with the horizon every night without ever crossing the line.
On the other side, the southern hemisphere will go through its shortest and darkest day of the year.
What is the spiritual meaning of the summer solstice?
Symbolically, the summer solstice is an invitation to embrace more light in your life. Visualize the solar system and imagine the same rules applying to your own existence. The source of light is always there and accessible, but are you inclined to receive it?
Allow yourself to follow the movement of Mother Earth and leave the shadow behind you. This very gentle process started with the spring equinox, and whether you want it or not, you’re on the ride!
Living a conscious life aligned with nature’s rhythm might help you find your own pace and embrace the purposeful life that was designed for you.
Summer is a time of expansion. Dance like a sunflower, keep looking towards the sun, and feel your heart and body opening. As you let the light in, notice your energy rising again. Observe your breath travelling up and down, creating a new flow.
Summer is the season of harvest. The seeds you’ve planted have sprouted, grown, and flourished. The fruits have come to maturity. Delight yourself with the results of your hard work.
Ask yourself the following questions: what blessing have you received in your life lately? What projects have come to completion? The summer solstice is a time of celebration. Give yourself gratitude for all you have accomplished, no matter how big or small. Give gratitude for the support you have received.
But most importantly, how can you give back? How can you share your abundance? So the cycle never ends. So prosperity is ensured. So community is strengthened.
How was the summer solstice celebrated in ancient times?
Earth-based cultures have long observed and celebrated the summer solstice. From thousands of years ago to this day, rituals have been performed worldwide to mark the occurrence.
Although each civilization has formed its own prayer, we can easily find similarities between them all.
In most pre-Christian religions of Western Europe, the summer solstice and midsummer — which comes a few days later — were celebrated with a bonfire. This sacred element was used both as a mirror of the sun itself, a symbol of transformation, and an expression of joy.
In some places, celebrations might have taken place within stone circles. Yes, you got the picture: Stonehenge, Callanish, Carnac, etc. The whole Outlander vibe. On the summer solstice, these sites perfectly align with the setting sun, letting us think that they would receive important ceremonies for the occasion.
But did you know that Northern Europe was not the only place where these mysterious stone arrangements could be found? Down the Nile, a 7,000-year-old site was planted on Nabta playa. It is the oldest stone circle that has been discovered to this day. Its alignment with the sun on the summer solstice welcomes the monsoon. It was one of the main purposes of the megaliths wherever they were placed: to mark the passing of time and the change of seasons.
In Ancient Egypt, the sun was represented by the god Ra. However, the summer solstice coincided with the rising of the Sirius star, associated with Isis. Therefore, not only the magnificent masculine energy of the sun was honored, but also the motherly, loving feminine energy of the goddess. With her came the rainfalls and the rising of the Nile, symbols of fertility and abundance.
Rituals for the Summer Solstice
A ritual is a sacred practice. It’s a form of communication. It’s a reverence to ourselves and our ancestors. It’s a connection to something bigger than us.
Now that you know the meaning and origins of the summer solstice, how do you want to welcome this transition in your life? What are you harvesting this season? Have you made space for it? How much gratitude do you hold in your heart for this abundance?
Below, you will find a few invitations to welcome this powerful event. As for any Raindrop Movement practice, take what you like and throw out the rest. Trust your intuition and make it your own!
Clean your house
This year of 2024, the summer solstice is followed by a full moon, right on the next day. There are so many blessings for you to receive, but are you ready for them? To allow the flow of life, start by cleaning your house. Take out the trash, make space for the new. Smudge the whole place with your favorite plants. Make it irresistible. Fall in love with your home again and feel the shift happening already.
Enjoy the sunrise and sunset
Many ancient civilizations consider the sunrise and sunset among the most sacred times of the day. On the summer solstice, they both will be longer and spectacular.
Although it might be — or not — a little earlier than your usual wake-up time, set up an alarm to honor this magical moment. Even if you just witness the rising of the sun from your bed, welcome him with your full awareness and make a prayer of gratitude for all you have received this past cycle.
In the evening, slow down with the sun, find your breath, and enjoy a moment of stillness in pure synch with the rhythm of the universe.
Connect with nature
Depending on what is available to you, take a stroll in your garden, the nearest park, or in a forest. Take your shoes off and receive the energy of Mother Earth. Look around and observe her beautiful work of love. Notice the bright green, the many colors, the flowers, the fruits, maybe even the water. Hear the happy sounds of nature. See the abundance that surrounds you.
Meditate, sing, dance, make any kind of offering to express your gratitude for these invaluable gifts.
What is your favorite ritual to celebrate the summer solstice? Let us know in the comments!
To celebrate the summer solstice in a conscious dance with us, join our Free Monthly Practice on July 3rd!
And if you wish to deepen your connection with the elements through powerful rituals, join us in sacred sisterhood at the Wild Woman’s Altar on July 7th!
Sources:
- Met Office. “What happens during the summer solstice?” Accessed June 9th, 2024.
- English Heritage. “What is the summer solstice?” Accessed June 18th, 2024.
- Isiopolis. “A summer solstice Isis Rite.” Accessed June 19th, 2024.
- Discover Magazine. “Nabta Playa: The World's First Astronomical Site Was Built in Africa and Is Older Than Stonehenge”. Accessed June 19th, 2024.
