“Rare” is a stretchy term. But full moons occurring on summer solstice are relatively infrequent, coming every 19 years or so. This is observed in the Metonic cycle, a 19-year interval during which the phases of the moon repeat on the same dates of the year, one of the rare situations when the human calendar and the sky align. And yes, if you’re being picky, technically they’re a day apart: the solstice occurs on the 20th and the full moon on the 21st. But sky events don’t tick like a clock. Each is the crest of a wave that takes days to form and days to dissolve.
In truth the excitement for this rare event is best felt inside your body, not your mind. The wordless understanding of full moons and solstices are wired into your genetic code. Full moons come every month, solstice comes twice a year. Deep in your cells you know what to do. In the north, all that is nurtured by the sun is being energized. It’s time to open your heart and celebrate the abundant blessings of the cosmic king, the center of our solar system, the sun. Does your body want to dance? Do your arms want to open and receive its power? In the south, you’re turning inward, preparing to conserve faith and spirit for the cold and darker days ahead. Perhaps you’re feeling more reflective.
North or south, during the days before, after, or on the solstice, your body needs to connect with the sun. Let a part of yourself drift out of your routine and into the archetypal realm. You don’t have to be at Stonehenge to have a mystical experience. You may be surprised; at a random hour, while sitting at your desk, walking on the street, or sipping an espresso, the Sun will find you. It will wink at you from a knothole on the fence. Or beam through a window and touch your arm. Like an old friend. Stay awhile. Just let the sun touch you and give thanks. Expressing your gratitude for the Sun is not a fancy solstice ritual—but it’s potent nonetheless.
Skillful soulful navigating
Solstices announce the change of seasons. Bodies are vulnerable to infection and fatigue during these weeks. The secret to more soulful navigating is plainly visible. Just do as the sun is doing at solstice: Slow down. That’s what “sol-stice” means—the Sun is standing still.
June 20 is a day to pause, descend into the temple of your body, step into your personal dreamscape, and meet the energies in your subconscious. Pay attention to the dance of your emotions and the unspoken yearnings underneath. What are you thinking? It’s common to overextend self—financially and energetically—during the holidays.
If something inside you recognizes this, “Yes. I’d love to just stop for a moment,” or “I yearn to be alone with my thoughts,” find a free hour—and if that’s not available—a free fifteen minutes on Thursday the 20th or Friday the 21st (the sun doesn’t move much at this time). After sunset with a view of the western horizon would be nice. If you’re in New York, do treat yourself to Manhattanhenge, active now until early July.
But if weather isn’t conducive, find a place where can you be pleasantly alone with your thoughts–somewhere you’ll feel safe and not likely to be interrupted. A comfortable chair is ideal. Then… settle in. Shine the gentle light of your attention on your inner world. Does it feel silent? Thick? Agitated? Dull? Just notice. If you’re thinking the same thoughts that you’ve been thinking for a few hours (or even days already), let them settle. Wait patiently for a gap to appear in the thoughts. Then enjoy the peace of this non-thinking.
After a while, investigate. Is there a question? A mystery that needs solving? Is there a need? Are you hungry for something? Be the one who hears these things. Often when we complain to our friends about the same problem over and over again, we’re trying to get our own attention. We’re not listening yet. Unconsciously, we’re avoiding something.
But don’t try to solve or fix anything immediately. Go for the wisdom. Whatever questions are asked through the heart–rather than the busy mind–become an irresistible puzzle for your intuition. It loves to solve such things! It’s immediately on the case. Allow your intuition to go at its pace and in its way, as you go forward a little more quietly over the next few days, being gently attentive. Your inner wisdom voice will bring a sparkling solstice message.
Empower yourself with celestial vibrance. Enjoy imagination and support with Dana’s monthly Moon workshop and/or Mooncircles’ fabulous astrology reports.
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