Summer Solstice
New Beginnings
Today, we celebrate the Summer Solstice, a magical day when the sun reaches its apex in the sky, making this the longest day and shortest night of the year. As the first day of summer, the solstice offers an opportunity to connect with nature, reflect on the past months, and embrace new beginnings.
The Solstice, also referred to as Midsummer, has been honored and celebrated by many cultures throughout time: the Pagans, the Greeks, the Romans, the Vikings, even modern day cultures. (Though Scandinavia seems to celebrate their “Midsommer” on June 23rd!)
The Summer Solstice happens to be one of my favorite days of the year. I divide it into a personal moment and a public celebration.
Personal Reflection on the Summer Solstice
On a personal level, I find the morning of the solstice to be a time for reflection, meditation, and private contemplation. It’s a moment to think back on the last six months—assessing what I’ve accomplished, what’s new, what I need to release, and what I should embrace going forward.
For me, it has become increasingly important to have these interim check-in’s. In a world where we are often caught up in daily demands—whether work projects, family, or social commitments—taking this moment to reflect during the Summer Solstice helps me realign with my chosen direction. It's about recalibrating my focus and ensuring I’m moving towards what truly matters.
After meditation, I ground myself by walking barefoot on the cool summer grass, feeling connected to nature. This simple act helps me set fresh intentions and admire the beauty of the day as the sun rises higher in the sky.
A Time for Celebration with Family and Friends
The longest day of the year is an ideal opportunity to gain clarity, refresh our focus, and make necessary adjustments to our life paths. Unlike New Year’s Eve, the Summer Solstice carries no pressure or expectations—just a natural moment of renewal.
Just as personal but far more public, the solstice is the perfect evening to host a summer dinner with friends and family and enjoy the abundance of seasonal foods, fruits, and flowers! The evening is sweet and mild, the sunset late and lingering, the warm summer air providing the perfect backdrop for celebrating with loved ones, no matter your style of entertaining.
I personally enjoy preparing dishes that can be savored hot or at room temperature, allowing everyone to graze leisurely throughout the long evening hours, happy amongst good company. This also allows me, as host, to prepare things in advance to better be able to join the gathering, sitting at the table with my guests, enjoying “l’heur bleu” and a glass of wine.
However you choose to celebrate, I send my warmest wishes for a wonderful Summer Solstice filled with new beginnings and joy. May this day inspire you to reflect, refresh, and embrace the season ahead.
