The summer solstice this year comes June 20. On that day, the sun reaches its northernmost point from the equator in our hemisphere.
Since the earth’s orbit around the sun determines the summer solstice, it varies slightly from year to year. It is not a regular calendar date but happens on the day with the most hours of sunlight for the year.
The word “solstice” is derived from a Latin phrase meaning “sun stops.” Ancient observers noticed that the sun momentarily seemed to stop during the solstice.
While many folks say summer starts on Memorial Day and others say June 1, astronomically, the longest day of the year is the first day of summer. The sun appears highest in the sky, and its rays strike at the most direct angle.
While it seems that the longest day of the year with the most direct sun rays should be the hottest, it takes time for the earth and its waters to warm up. Then, heat is released into the atmosphere. Consequently, days continue to get hotter throughout the summer.
Humans have celebrated the summer solstice for millennia. Modern folks can get in touch with our natural side by paying respect to the sun’s power. Respecting the sun’s strength also means protecting our skin and eyes from its harsh rays.
Take time to go outdoors and embrace nature. Spend a few moments in reflection, and breathe in its vastness. Think about the wonders we enjoy because of sunlight.
While protecting your eyes, look at the sky and observe the horizon and any clouds. Decide which clouds are natural or if any are formed from trails left by jets. Wonder about humanity’s impact on nature.
Take a walk alone or with your family. Notice the plant life and what is growing, and pick flowers for a bouquet or craft project.
Making a flower mandala is a reflection activity for the beginning of summer. With your family or in another small group, select various flowers, break them apart, and put the types of petals in separate bowls.
Each person can arrange the petals in any circular design. Comment on one another’s creativity, and meditate on this symbol of peace and serenity.
Help a child make a garland. Choose flowers with thin stems and fragrances. To use a garland as a flower crown or lei, string it according to the following directions.
Make a small slit in each stem about two-thirds of the way up. Next, create a chain by threading a flower stem, one at a time, through each slit. Then, slit the hole a little larger on the last stem and coax the last flower through the first stem to finish the loop at the desired length.
In Sweden, individuals celebrate the summer solstice by eating the season’s first strawberries. At lower latitudes, we started enjoying this natural treat in early spring.
Though possibly not the first time this year, get strawberries at Mercey Springs Produce on westbound Highway 152 or at a local supermarket. Savor the solstice!
Interestingly, strawberries are commonly propagated in northeastern California, which has longer summer days. Seedlings are shipped down to central and coastal California for planting.
Celebrate the solstice in our area by visiting seasonal departments in local variety and hardware stores. Commemorate the solstice by sprucing up your yard or garden with something seasonal.
Even after June 20, continue celebrating summer. Being outdoors is great for your overall well-being. Rejoice in the benefits of sunshine like folks have been doing for thousands of years.
Janet Miller’s e-book, “Family Prayers and Activities: Weekly Guides,” is for families or prayer groups. She is the creator of “Friends on the Way,” an e-resource for churches to teach families about the Bible and discipleship. Find it at www.TeamRCIA.com.
