Gardens are highly productive, and nature is in full swing with an abundance of plants, the call of birds, and buzzing insects.
We might be feeling more energized as our circadian rhythm is influenced by the abundance of light and vitality of other organisms all around us.
To honor and celebrate the Summer Solstice and our relationship to natural cycles of abundance and productivity, I wanted to share one of my favorite meditations with you that is perfect for the “longest day” of the year. Sandra Ingerman, a therapist and shaman, was the inspiration behind this meditation.
Summer Solstice Meditation
- Choose a spot outside – you can stand or sit, whatever feels best.Notice your breath – imagine you’re breathing the vitality or life force all around you. With so much growing right now – life and energy are abundant.
2. Now imagine you are breathing with your whole body. What if every cell of your body could take in a deep breath of air and vitality? Don’t overthink – with each inhalation, image and feel your body inhaling as you take an inhalation. Try this with the exhale as well. Allow each cell to let go and rest.
3. Feel your feet and/or sit bones on the Earth. Feel these parts of you connecting with the Earth. Feel the aliveness and sensations in your feet and hips. Take a breath in, and on the exhale, send your breath to your feet. Now do the same for your hips. Occupy these areas – feel yourself taking up your space.
4. Bring your felt awareness to your heart area. Feel the center, front, and back of your heart. Allow your breath and intention to help soften and relax your heart.
5. Imagine there is a light or glow within the center of your heart. Can you feel this? Perhaps you have an image and/or can feel the warmth of a candle flame or the glow of light. Try not to effort – just like a star radiates light – you do too.
6. Imagine this light extending beyond your heart to fill your chest cavity – again, with no effort, just radiating like the sun. As the energy of the sun is a gift and sustains life without any effort – your inner light is the same. Continue this practice, radiating this light throughout your whole body. REMEMBER – you are not sending out your energy or light; you are radiating like the sun.
7. There is no effort, pushing, or trying to make anything happen.
8. Now extend it to the surrounding area. How far out can your light expand?
9. When you feel done, gently allow your light to return to its original resting space within your heart and give gratitude for your inner light and the light of the sun.
Happy Summer Solstice!
