On June 21, 2023, at 4:57 p.m. local time in Italy, the summer solstice will occur, marking the official start of the summer season. This astronomical event, celebrated for thousands of years, was understood by our ancestors who tracked the sun's path, the changing length of the days, and the position of sunrise and sunset throughout the year.
Especially in cultures where the onset of summer meant relief from long, harsh winters, such as those in the northern and Arctic regions of our planet, the solstice was and remains a time of celebration, symbolizing a surge of life.
What is the longest day of summer?
Known as the summer solstice, the longest "day" of the year doesn't exceed 24 hours. Instead, it refers to the day with the maximum hours of daylight compared to darkness.
Due to the Earth's axial tilt of 23° 27′ from the normal to the plane of the Earth's orbit around the Sun (the ecliptic plane), at the summer solstice, the northern hemisphere faces the Sun, allowing sunlight to strike the atmosphere at a lower angle and warm it more effectively. The opposite occurs in the southern hemisphere, ushering in winter. Following the summer solstice, daylight hours begin to shorten, initially almost imperceptibly, but increasingly noticeably.
What occurs on the summer solstice?
The commencement of summer falls on June 21, the day of the summer solstice, characterized by the longest duration of daylight in the year. Subsequently, the length of the days starts to gradually decrease until the winter solstice.
During the summer solstice, the sun reaches its zenith, the highest point in the sky along the Tropic of Cancer, at noon. In the region between the Arctic Circle and the North Pole, the sun does not set, resulting in a continuous 24-hour day of light.
What is the spiritual significance of the summer solstice?
Historically, the summer solstice has been rich in symbolism, narratives, and traditions, many revolving around the theme of rebirth, the transformation of a flower into fruit, and nature attaining its fullest splendor.
The summer solstice is a time of potent energy. Since winter, the days have gradually lengthened as the Earth has tilted back toward the sun. In the depths of winter, our focus turns inward, but with the solstice, we shift outward. If spring is like waking up and stretching in the morning, the summer solstice symbolizes full awakeness and renewal. It represents a peak, an ideal time for introspection and reassessing life priorities.
How to celebrate the summer solstice?
There are many different traditions and ways to celebrate the summer solstice, depending on cultures and personal preferences.
Contemplate the moon
On the evening of the summer solstice, don't forget to look up at the sky after sunset. This is often an opportunity to contemplate the moon, be fascinated by shooting stars, or explore the constellations and planets. Use this opportunity to connect with the immensity of the cosmos and be transported by its wonder.
Walk at dawn
If you are not one for sunset rituals, you can welcome summer with a sunrise walk in a meaningful place, such as a beach, mountain or nature park. Enjoy the beauty of the sunrise and try some meditation or yoga exercises to connect with the surrounding nature. June 21 is also World Yoga Day.
Light a bonfire
If you are fascinated by the ritual of fire instead, you can light a ritual fire to symbolize the light and warmth of summer. Gather friends and family around the fire to share stories and songs.
Watch the sunrise at Stonhenge
During the night and dawn of the summer solstice, a collective gathering of spiritual movements forms at Stonehenge, where people dance to the tribal rhythm of drums. It is a once-in-a-year occasion when visitors are allowed to touch the stones of Stonehenge. For many, this contact with the ancient stones creates a spiritual connection and a special energy.
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