On our journey around the seasonal Wheel, in summertime we cross the literal and magical high point of the year – the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, that bittersweet moment when we honor the triumph of light, as we also acknowledge the beginning of its descent into the dark.

Setting our ritual intention

Obvious ritual themes would evoke the light/dark metaphors…. What dreams, desires, and projects have been kept in the dark that I now can bring to light? What do you need to let go of to do that? How and where can you best let your own light shine through, unabashedly and joyfully?

Creating sacred time and space

Definitely, the “rite” time to capture the maximum heat and light of the season is at high noon, the apex of the Sun’s daily journey through the sky! A secluded spot on the beach, an open meadow, a sun-lit corner in your backyard, or a playground… all are potential spaces for simple summer ritual work.

Summer symbols for your altar

Flowers and bright floral colors, especially yellow, orange, and red, should adorn your summer altar. To celebrate the long days of maximum light, bring sun images, lots of candles, even sparklers! Beach toys, Frisbees, and jump ropes are all playful seasonal ritual “tools” as well.

Stimulate the five senses

Seeing – just look around you to revel in the Mother’s lush, summertime sights and explosion of colors.
Hearing – birds chattering, crickets chirping, wind chimes tinkling… more fun to have them “live” in your ritual, but a CD will do.
Smell – fragrant flowers and fruit-scented candles are the obvious choices; a whiff of suntan lotion will transport you directly to the beach!
Taste – succulent, juicy fruits like mangos, peaches, plums
Touch – create your ritual at the beach and wriggle your feet into the sand, or if you’re inside, plunge your hands into a bowl of moist, rich earth!

Rite-Minded Women is brought to you by Deborah Roth

From the forthcoming book, The Authentic Woman® Playbook – Daily Discoverings of Your Divine Feminine by the Authentic Woman® Coaching Collaborative

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