The summer solstice marks a brief moment in time in which the Earth is titled in its greatest inclination toward the sun, providing the longest period between sunrise and sunset. Tomorrow, join past cultures in the historical celebration of the summer solstice. Here’s how:
Get outside
What better way to celebrate the longest day of the year than to spend it outdoors! For many cultures, the historical celebration of the solstice was a spiritual one. Consider traveling to a location where you feel truly connected to nature and spend the entire day enjoying the outdoors.
Hit the beach
Plan a quintessential summer trip to the beach to celebrate the longest day of the year. Pack a gourmet picnic with lots of water to keep you energized and hydrated all day long. Want to know what to bring in your beach bag? Read “5 Things You Never Thought Belonged in Your Beach Bag” .
Watch the sky
Check with local astronomy clubs or planetariums to learn how they’re celebrating the solstice and what programs or day trips are offered to the public. Remember, protect your peepers—never look directly into the sun.
Get your yoga on
If you regularly practice yoga, you’re familiar with sun salutations, a series of movements and poses that honor the sun. Do yours at home or join the masses in New York’s Times Square. On June 21, yoga enthusiasts will search for solitude in one of the world’s busiest places, in celebration of the year’s longest day.
Throw a party
Looking for a reason to get friends and family together? Consider the solstice! Carry the theme through sunny colored linens, drink refreshing, sparkling cocktails, feast on summer’s bounty and light up the night with paraffin-free candles. And be sure to decorate with just-picked flowers or herbs. Tradition says those picked on the summer solstice have healing energy. For more great eco-friendly outdoor party ideas, read “How to Host an Eco-Friendly Summer Cookout”.
Take stock
Historically, the summer solstice was an opportunity to set new goals, much like the New Year. Take this time to reflect on where you are and where you’d like to be in your life. Is there something you wish was different? Commit to changing it, outline your plan and start today!
Do more
Always short on time? Us, too! The extra daylight is the perfect opportunity to get some exercise, cook at home or finally make a decision you’ve been avoiding.
Fire it up
Many historical solstice celebrations were based on fire. Along those lines, find a local park or beach that allows it and plan a nighttime bonfire to celebrate the tired sun as it finally sets. And don’t forget supplies for s’mores!
Get grateful
Taking stock in your life not only highlights areas you want to change, it sheds light on what’s important. In honor of the summer solstice, start a gratitude journal. Each morning or evening—whichever is easier for you to remember—jot down five things you’re thankful for. You’ll be surprise as you start to cultivate more gratitude each and every day.
Start a tradition
No matter what you do, do something in honor of the summer solstice. It can be as simple as rising together as a family to watch the sunrise, but make a commitment to enjoy this—or something more appropriate for your family—together, every year.
Talk to us: Are you planning to celebrate the solstice this year? If so, how? Do you celebrate the winter solstice as well?