Many of us who are either non-denominational, pagan, or simply spiritual in nature will find that marking the solstice and other pagan sabbats can bring a connection to Earth that other holidays do not encourage.
Connection to nature and gratitude are two of the most powerful healers in existence. To honor these sabbats is also to honor our own health and healing, as well as our sacred place in the Universe.
In pagan mythology, deities engage in a battle between light and dark at the summer solstice, with light losing the battle. Hence, the days begin to shorten and darken until light is reborn at the winter solstice.
Mark the solstice in a solitary way:
Write a wish on a piece of paper and burn it up. Draw a bath and sprinkle the ashes into the water along.
Get a haircut and offer clippings to the earth (scatter them in a garden bed). Birds will thank you for the building materials, and Earth will thank you for the nitrogen.
Pull out your Mother Tarot deck, which is designed for high-energy phases of our Earthly cycles, such as full moon days and the spring and summer months. This deck can offer guidance and advice for thriving as we tip now towards the dark of winter.
Mark the solstice in a communal way:
Go dancing with friends and have all the fun.
Make a meal with fresh summer vegetables and herbs. Share this meal with someone or a group of loved ones.
Go swimming (nude if possible and safe). Imagine yourself being cleansed of any stress from previous months at this pivotal moment in the year. Be sure to splash and play with each other.
Engage in a friendly battle of some sort. Arm wrestling, badminton, Zelda, etc. Something that represents the battle between light and dark. This enactment will help to humble you to the powerful cycles of nature.
Check out the Mother Tarot deck, the ideal deck for high-energy readings, like those you might perform on full moon days and spring and summer months.