5 Things to Do This Summer Solstice




5 Things to Do This Summer Solstice



Summer solstice, also known as midsummer, marks the longest day of the year and is celebrated by many cultures around the world. It's a time to embrace the warmth and light of the sun, devote some time to self care and enjoy the beauty of nature. My favourite summer solstice ritual is to do a ten minute meditation outside thinking about the power of the sun. Here are five things you can do to make the most of this special day:

1. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

The summer solstice is a great time to watch the sunrise or sunset. Find a beautiful spot with an unobstructed view of the horizon and take in the breathtaking colors as the sun rises or sets. Many people believe that watching the sunrise or sunset on summer solstice brings good luck and positive energy. Science has shown that exposure to sunlight in the morning can help reset the circadian rhythm, leading to better sleep quality at night and increased alertness during the day. I love doing this activity with my family, I find the kids are more calm all day after being outside first thing and have better naps and nighttime sleep. So even if you have to sacrifice a few zzzz, the benefits might be worth it for this special day.




2. Have a Bonfire

Gather some friends and family and have a bonfire to celebrate summer solstice. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy each other's company as you bask in the warmth of the fire. Please remember to check the bushfire/forest fire advisement in your area before creating any open flames. IF you have a fire ban in effect, an electric candle still provides a lovely ambience and even a device with a roaring fire screensaver will do in a pinch! Many cultures believe that bonfires have healing properties and can ward off evil spirits.

3. Take a Nature Walk

Summer solstice is a great time to connect with nature. Take a walk in a park, forest, or nature reserve and enjoy the beauty of the natural world around you. Look for signs of wildlife, listen to birds singing, and breathe in the fresh air. This is a great activity to do alone, with your family (remember to bring snacks!) or with a group of friends. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health.

4. Practice Yoga Outdoors

Yoga is a great way to connect with your body and mind, and practicing outdoors can enhance the experience even further. Find a quiet spot in nature and practice some yoga poses or follow a tutorial as you soak up the sun's rays. Yoga has been shown to improve flexibility, strength, and overall well-being. I find this is a great way to quiet my mind when meditating is too hard!

5. Make sun tea (extra points for foraging the tea leaves)

Sun tea is a refreshing and easy-to-make summer drink that requires no electricity or stove. Here is a simple recipe for making sun tea:

Ingredients:
- 4-6 tea bags (you can pick your own purslane, mint, dandelion flowers or any other edible plant to substitute for the tea)
- 1 gallon/4Liters of water
- Optional: lemon slices, stevia, honey, or sugar for added flavor

Instructions:
1. Fill a large glass jar or pitcher with one gallon/4L of cold water.
2. Add 4-6 tea bags to the water and gently stir.
3. Cover the jar or pitcher with a lid or beeswax wrap and place it in direct sunlight for 2-4 hours. The longer you leave it in the sun, the stronger the tea will be.
4. After the desired steeping time, remove the tea bags and add any additional flavorings you desire.
5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator until it's cold and serve over ice.

*It's important to note that sun tea can be unsafe if not made properly. To reduce the risk of bacteria growth, make sure to use clean equipment and fresh tea bags, and avoid leaving the tea in the sun for too long. It's recommended to consume sun tea within a few hours of brewing and to store any leftovers in the refrigerator.


Summer solstice is a special day that offers many opportunities to connect with nature and celebrate the warmth and light of the sun. I enjoy this day with a little bit of ceremony and hope to make it a family tradition. Whether you choose to watch the sunrise, have a bonfire or simply take a moment to enjoy the sun, make sure to enjoy this special day to the fullest. Comment below what you like to do to mark this special day.


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