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Shared joy is a double joy; shared sorrow is half a sorrow. - Swedish Proverb

Summer Solstice Resource Page

 

lighting-summer

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Because of my challenges with Seasonal Affective Disorder I have always paid attention to both the summer and winter solstice. The summer solstice is the longest day of the year — naturally the days get shorter from this day until the winter solstice, which is the shortest day of the year. For those of us that suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder and the winter blues this is a significant time of year. In 2014 the winter solstice falls on December 21st.

What is the definition of the summer solstice?

The summer solstice, also known as the June solstice  is the longest day of the year and signifies the onset of summer. On this day the sun reaches its highest position in proportion to the celestial equator.

The word solstice is Latin and derived from solstitium (sol, sun and stitium, to stop) — the logic here was that the Sun seemed to stop at this time of year.summer sollstice

The summer solstice typically starts on June 21st in the northern hemisphere and Dec. 22nd in the southern hemisphere.

When is the summer solstice:

In 2014, the solstice came on June 21st at 6:51am EDT. The chart to the right shows the dates and times for both equinoxes and solstices from 2010 to 2020.

Please note the time is actually universal time

7 tips for staying balanced during the summer months:

If you tend to run hot these tips can help you to stay balanced during the hottest part of the year

1) Stay hydrated. I find this hydration calculator helpful because it takes into account different situations and scenarios.

2) Proper sleep. Getting enough sleep is detrimental in any part of the year to stay balanced.

3) Balanced activity. Moderate daily exercise is a great way to stay ahead of the heat. Swimming is a wonderful activity to help you stay balanced during the hot summer months. Morning and evening walks are fabulous!

4) Diet. It is best for you to find the diet that works for you, however in the summer months people tend to eat lighter. More leafy greens and cooling foods like watermelon and watery fruits.

5) Stay inside. If you are having a hard time with the heat, it is recommended to stay inside during the hottest part of the day.

6) Clothing. Wear comfortable cool clothing like shorts and sandals. This will help keep your body temp. down

7) Hat and sun glasses. When you are going to be out in the heat it is best to wear a hat and sunglasses for protection.

10 ways to celebrate summer:

1) Go camping

2) Have a family BBQ

3) Eat cooling foods like watermelon and ice cream

4) Go for a swim

5) Wear flip-flops and tank tops

6) Have a bonfire

7) Go for an evening walk

8) Enjoy your local parks

9) Have a picnic

10) Play some ball with kids or friends

The summer solstice marks the beginning of one of the most exciting times of the year! I hope you found this article useful and that you  have a fun and balanced summer season.