Looking back in time is the best way to make sense of the "rituals"—or traditions—we have today. When we research the way our ancestors perceived the land and its connection to the sky, a different picture of society emerges. These people were dedicated to the land in every way imaginable. Every aspect of nature and the cosmos were regarded through their relation to us.
Some of the most famous time-honored traditions were those of the Celtic people, who were one of many ancient civilizations that observed the Summer Solstice, or Litha. This occurs when Earth's axial tilt is closet to the sun; this year, 2019, it falls on Friday, June 21.
In ancient Britain, societies would celebrate this holiday by observing the sunrise from megalithic stone structures, and lighting bonfires at high points, such as hilltops or mounds. This was thought to encourage protection and an agricultural bounty in the coming months.
Today, there are still things we can do to honor these time-tried traditions, and inspire an incredible summer and rest of the year. D
Clear Your Head, and Clear Your Space
It's good to focus on decluttering. Body, mind, and soul.
The sun can certainly help with this, because it directly connects to our third chakra, or Solar Plexus Chakra. The Solar Plexus, energized by sunlight, is located between one's navel and ribcage. It influences a person's Will; their commitment, resolution, and the ability to achieve personal goals by mastering self-discipline. Meditate to music tailored to the Solar Plexus, or play it in the background while tidying up around the house. Clean one room a day to keep from becoming overwhelmed by the task, and on the last day, burn some loose incense throughout your home. For summer, a mixture of St. John's Wort, Mugwort, and Lavender (or Frankincense) is perfect. You can find these and more for witchy budget prices, in bulk, at Rose Mountain Herbs. You're welcome.
Journal Your Goals
Journal, create a vision board, or use Post-Its all over your work computer—I don't care what you do, just write them down. Write the short term goals you plan to achieve by the end of the year. It's useful to do this so that you can tangibly visualize your goals and work toward them, a little each day.
Visualize Golden Light
While practicing deep breathing--which everyone should do once in a while--close your eyes and imagine a ball of white-gold light within you. Envision it inflating as you inhale, and shrinking as you exhale. When you exhale, imagine your stressors and anxieties leaving your body. Visualize the gold light penetrating each cell, dancing in your core.
Celebrate!
Well? It's summer! Throw a nighttime bonfire. Invite family and friends, make it a potluck if you want to. If you have any friends who are singers or musicians, definitely invite them. Singing on the eve of a Summer Solstice raises ancient vibrations that lift the soul.
Be sure to practice bonfire safety guidelines.
Practicing these solstice rituals help us all connect with our ancestors and pays homage those who came before us. We can channel them through these traditions, and ground ourselves in our roots. Back then, life was simpler, and surely a little more enchanting. Isn't that the way it should be?
Happy Litha, Parliament monsters! And as always, happy casting.
"...This is the solstice, the still point
of the sun, its cusp and midnight,
the year’s threshold
and unlocking, where the past
lets go of and becomes the future;
the place of caught breath, the door
of a vanished house left ajar..."
- Margaret Atwood, EATING FIRE: Selected Poetry 1965-1996
xo,
The Attic Witch