Sumer Solstice is the longest day of the year with the sun at its highest point in the sky.
Solstice Means "Sun-Standing"*: The word "solstice" comes from the Latin words "sol" (sun) and "sistere" (to stand).
I have been teaching classes at a pop up campsite deep in the local countryside near us, and last week I was thinking what a great venue it would be for a class to celebrate the solstice in such incredible weather. I have often about it and as we were forecast this sun and I now had a beautiful venue, it seemed the perfect opportunity.
The Summer Solstice marks the peak of the sun's power, symbolizing the connection between nature and spirituality. Also the solstice represents the renewal of life, as the sun's energy nourishes the earth and promotes growth so this seemed an appropriate time to focus on mind body connection and setting intentions and this is why I wanted to capture the opportunity of a beautiful field right next to the Solent, in the heat of the evening sun, surrounded by birdsong. We practised what I am going to bring in as our July challenge but more of that next week!
I looked up some facts on the solstice and this is what I found -
In Scandinavian countries , the Summer Solstice is celebrated with Midsummer festivals, featuring dancing, feasting, and flower crowns.
In Greece, the Summer Solstice is celebrated with the Feast of St. John, featuring bonfires, music, and traditional dances.
Many Native American tribes celebrate the Summer Solstice with Sun Dances, featuring traditional music, dance, and spiritual ceremonies.
While we missed the tribal dances, lighting of bonfires (absolutely NOT in a very dry New Forest) and ceremonies, we did practise breath exercises, London appears to have it's own version this weekend with a naked bike ride this weekend. I think possibly meditating in a field near Lymington worked best for us! We enjoyed some relaxation techniques and we set some intentions. It was a magical evening and thank you everyone who joined me. during
I suppose from Sunday, the nights start drawing in and we can start talking about Christmas..... JOKE!!!
Well done to our very own Lisa for conquering the 3 Peaks last weekend and raising thousands of pounds for Dementia research. While we had sun down here, they were battered with wind and rain but returned as conquering heroines so well done to you!
And finally....
As we head into summer and routines change, please keep an eye on the calendar - I will always email online members of any changes and will endeavour to put in a couple of Saturday catch up's where I can. However, don't forget you have access 24/7 to a huge library of classes of all levels so you can always jump in there and select a class to keep your routine.
I plan time in the garden with my book this weekend and watching "The Gold" which I am hooked on. I hope you have a lovely weekend - there is always a naked bike ride if you find yourself at a loose end.....
Jx
