A Global Community On the Summer Solstice

Written by: Adria Johnson

June 21, 2023 marks the Summer Solstice, the crescendo of the astronomical year. A moment that beckons us into the balance of both stillness and forward movement, both reflection and celebration.

WHAT IS THE SUMMER SOLSTICE

The Summer Solstice is a precise planetary moment in which the Earth’s tilt reaches its zenith, the North Pole leaning toward the sun more than any other moment on the astronomical calendar. The solstice, literally meaning “sun still,” is different from every other day of the year in that the sun’s path sits still for a brief period of time, resulting in the longest day of the year. In the northern hemisphere, this Solstice signifies the long-awaited advent of Summer, making our spirits alive, refreshed, renewed, and energized. 

WHAT IS THE SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SUMMER SOLSTICE

Every solstice happens at an exact moment – the same moment everywhere on Earth.  Whether Winter or Summer, solstices remind us we are part of a global community –  that we are connected, even just for a moment, to everyone else on earth. As the earth rotates on its axis around the sun, we can’t help but collectively ebb and flow with the natural stream of each season’s energy. We feel it in our bodies: there is a time for growth and there is a time for rest, a time to press forward and a time to lean back. Each solstice serves as a reminder to realign ourselves with the natural grain of our design, and in turn, with each other.

The Significance of the Summer Solstice

WHAT SHOULD I DO DURING THE SUMMER SOLSTICE

This Summer Solstice, we want to invite you on two distinct yet connected journeys.

First, a journey inward. This particular solstice brings us to Spring’s consummation, a season representing new beginnings and abundant in doing energy: preparing, digging, cultivating, strategizing. Moving from Spring’s doing into Summer’s being demands of us to activate a patient and contented trust, believing that what we’ve sown this season can’t return to us void (regardless of the hurdles that may come or the time it may take). As the seasons transition, it’s important to take inventory so that we can move forward deliberately.

  • Reflect on what you’ve cultivated this Spring. What are you proud of?

  • Despite the tension you may have come against this Spring, what has been the gift of this season? What do you anticipate being the fruit of your labor?

  • Reflect on your greater purpose. How could you better refine your focus and energy? What habit – good or bad – is not serving you in this season? Remember, not every good habit is suitable for every season.

The Significance of the Summer Solstice

Second, a journey outward. If Spring invites our energies inward – to dig and sow – then Summer turns the tides outward. The nourishing warmth of the Summer sun inevitably draws people out of their homes and into connection. We feel the hope of the sunshine, reminding us that even our simplest efforts ripple value into other’s lives. We’re inspired by service and activism. As an expression of your significance in our global community, we challenge you to participate outwardly this month.

  • Host a gathering. Consider serving seasonal produce and flavors.

  • Physically slow your body down. Engage the stranger next to you. Make space for candid, even serendipitous connection.

  • Research ways you can give back to your greater community.

  • Organize a hike, bike ride, beach day, or cold plunge!

The Significance of the Summer Solstice

On these wonderfully long days of Summer we yearn to be outside, to feel alive, to be moving, and celebrating. We invite you to bask in the sunshine, to feel connected and enjoy the vibrance and beauty of life, of this planet and all it has to offer.

Cheers <3

Jessie Svec