At Noon on Solstice: A Poem and Simple Ways to Celebrate the Summer Solstice
Happy Solstice!
Litha, the summer solstice, is upon us—calling on our souls to embrace the light.
Here are some simple ways to honor the longest day of the year:
1. Brew something golden.
I recommend a simple herbal tea with cheerful orange calendula and a dash of honey—
a little homage to the golden rays of the sun and to the bees happily toiling in our gardens.
2. Touch the earth.
This could be as simple as repotting a plant or pulling a few weeds.
You may want to walk barefoot in the grass.
Do it at sunrise, if you can—the morning dew of Litha is considered magical.
3. Create something to honor the earth.
Make something with your hands to honor the earth’s midsummer gifts.
Weave a simple daisy chain flower crown, or arrange a nature mandala. Here’s an excellent tutorial on nature mandalas.
4. Light a solstice bonfire.
Light a fire and enjoy its glow.
You may want to select one or two seasonal plants that call to you and align with your intentions, and release them into the fire.
If you’re feeling brave, jump over the fire for good luck.
5. Watch the Stonehenge sunrise.
At summer solstice, the sun rises behind the Heel Stone and its first rays shine right into the heart of Stonehenge.
You can watch it live here at 4:52 AM local time on the 21st (that’s June 20th at 8:52 PM Pacific / 11:52 PM Eastern) on English Heritage’s YouTube channel.
6. Recognize the light.
The light above, the light within the earth, the light that surrounds you—and the light in your own heart.
As above, so below. As within, so without.
Bonus tip:
Don’t watch Midsommar (watch Midsommar) don’t watch Midsommar (if you know, you know).
A Solstice Poem
Oh, and I wrote you a poem. Happy Solstice, friends!
Love,
Karin (with an eye)
At Noon on Solstice
Stand tall at the summit of sunlight, friend
Your shadow, your echo, drawn inBe unburdened by the darkness you carry, friend
Let the light touch your skin and withinBe seen
Complete
Bathed in the flareNothing cast
Nothing trailing
Your spirit laid bareFor the light soon returns to its angles and bends
And your shadow will stretch long and restless again
