Summertime, anyone? Astronomers and scientists mark the June solstice as the beginning of summer season in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern Hemisphere. The summer solstice, also known as midsummer, falls on June 21 and is the longest day (most daylight hours) of the year. Solstice comes from the Latin words “sol,” meaning sun, and “sistere,” meaning to come to a stop or standstill.
During the solstice, the sun reaches its northernmost position, as seen from the Earth, and in that moment of motion, it finds stillness. The zenith does not move north or south as during most other days of the year, but instead it stands still at the Tropic of Cancer for a brief pause. It then reverses its direction and starts moving south again.
Across the world, the solstice holds a special place of celebration. People from every culture and discipline celebrate the day with feasts, picnics, dance and music. And so should you. Instead of working more that day, why not indulge in a little more body love with an inspired yoga practice that invigorates you from head to toe and wakens your own inner glow. No Sun Salutations are required.
Perform each posture for five to 10 breaths—or as long as you desire. To really signify the start of the new summer season, rest in Savasana for five to 10 minutes and then enjoy a Seated Meditation for three to five minutes more.
