Simple Ways to Celebrate the Summer Solstice

On June 21, the summer solstice will mark the beginning of summer and the longest day of the year for anyone living north of the equator. The word "solstice" is a combination of the Latin word "sol," which means sun, and "sistere," which means "to stop". The days become longer as the date of the summer solstice grows nearer, and as soon as it's over, the days begin to shorten until we are led back into the autumn season. The day of the summer solstice is when sunshine reaches its peak. Celebrated by cultures around the world for thousands of years, the summer solstice has long been considered a sacred date to honor the sun and all that the season brings. Read on for a few simple ways you can celebrate the seasonal shift into summer.

Practice Sun Salutations.

Sun Salutations are a sequence of yoga poses strung together in a consistent movement, traditionally practiced at sunrise to usher in the new day or salute the sun.Practicing sun salutations on the summer solstice is a great way to practice gratefulness and open your heart to the beginning of summer. Not sure where to start? Check out 10 Steps to Perfect Sun Salutations by Yoga Journal.

Create a sun wheel. 

The Solstice represents a time of abundance and beauty. Using fresh flowers to create a sun wheel or mandala (a symbol of the circle of life) is a great way to connect with nature and celebrate the beauty the sun brings. Make a large wreath with flowers, branches, moss, or anything else you can find outside.

Host a bonfire. 

Invite your friends and family over to watch the sun go down and keep the sun-celebration going with a bonfire. Gather, eat, drink, tell stories, and celebrate the official start of summer with your people. 

If there was ever a day to honor all the abundance of our earthly existence, it's the summer solstice. Make the most of the longest day of the year with a simple celebration of thanks to our star - the sun.

By Jaclyn LaBadia