A New Moon and the Summer SolsticeWe begin with a New Moon on June 18th. You can’t really observe a new moon because the full moon garners all the glory and leaves the new moon in the dark. I love the new moon because it brings opportunities for beginnings and rebirth. It’s about second chances and the opportunity to try again. The new moon helps us find our way to new experiences and/or to new people. It may lead us to previously unknown paths or aid us in tapping into buried talents. If you want to look at something in a new way - from a different perspective - the new moon is the perfect time for such an endeavor. The Summer Solstice is considered the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.* The solstice always occurs on one of three dates: June 20, 21, or 22. This year it is occurring on Wednesday, June 21st. On the east coast of the United States the solstice will occur at 10:57 am EDT. But what is the solstice? It’s about a tilted axis, an orbit and proximity to the sun, but I’m sparing you the in-depth science lesson. What I will tell you is that solstice is Latin for sol (sun) and sistere (to stand still). The term solstice is not universal. Northern Europeans prefer Midsummer. In the Celtic Pagan tradition it is called Litha, which means light. Some Christian religions use the term St. John’s Day. Regardless of the name used, on June 21, 2023 we will experience the longest daylight of the year and summertime will officially be upon us. * Meteorologists designate June 1st as the beginning of summer. Why? Consistent length of every season leads to improved statistical analyses. For them, summer, autumn, winter and spring always begin on the first day of the appointed month (June, September, December and March) and the season lasts exactly three months. There is no date variation whatsoever.* Both the new moon and the summer solstice are excellent times for purification, which is the process of making something spiritually or ceremonially clean. This is the perfect time to celebrate the sacred connection between earth and sun. There are many ways to do this. Consider creating a purification ritual of your own using elements such as earth, fire or water. Inhale the scent of flowers or use aromatherapy. Chant, dance or listen to music. Align your chakras to start this moon cycle balanced and grounded. Find something that feels right for you. Step forward into summer, cleansed and ready for whatever comes your way. Want to observe something other than or in addition to the solstice? June 21st is also National Smoothie Day, World Music Day, National Seashell Day, International Yoga Day, National Selfie Day, World Giraffe Day, World Sauntering Day, National Day of the Gong, and World Peace and Prayer Day. For those who want a bit more action it’s also World Motorcycle Day and Go Skateboarding Day.
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