Summer officially begins June21st, otherwise known as The Summer Solstice, Midsummer or Litha.

Scientifically speaking, this is the time when the earth is tilted so that the North Pole is at its closest point to the sun. This results in the northern hemisphere's longest day of the year and 24 hours of straight sunlight at the North Pole.

This is a magickal time! It is considered to be the point at which the sun is at its peak of powers, bathing the Earth in its warm energy. It is the time just before beginning its slide into darkness.

It is important to note that the separation of the light and dark halves of the year have nothing to do with good versus evil. Light signifies growth and expansion, dark means withdrawal and rest. Both are necessary.

During this time the Goddess manifests as Mother Earth and the God as the Sun King. It is when they are most alive.

This is also when herbs and stones have their greatest magickal properties and nature seems to electrify the air.

On Midsummer Nights, field and forest elves, sprites and faeries abound in great numbers, making this a great time to commune with them.

It is a time of beauty, love, nurturing and fertility. It is a time for great abundance.

Historically, this has been a joyous time of celebration. From the ancient Egyptians to Native Americans it has been recognized as a time of new beginnings, of stronger connections with the spirit world and powerful magick. It is also a time of renewed personal energy.

Magickal Associations of the Summer Solstice

Symbol: fire to celebrate the power of the sun, Mother Goddess, sun dials, feathers

Element : Fire

Deities: Aphrodite, Hathor, Ishtar, Venus, Athena, Apollo, Isis, Ra, Zeus

Potent Magick: Love, empowerment, growth, healing

Tools: Drums, fire, mirrors, earth circles

Colors: Yellow, green, blue, red, white

Stones: Jade, lapis lazuli, ruby, diamond, tiger'e eye, emerald

Herbs: Lavender, mugwort, fennel, chamomile, rose, mistletoe, sandalwood, verbena

Incense: Myrrh, lotus, sandalwood, rose, frankincense

Foods: Fresh vegetables and fruits, barbecued food

Drinks: Mead, ale, sweet wines, fresh fruit juice, herb teas

Animals: Almost any type of wildlife, but particularly birds

Astral Creatures: Faeries, dragons, unicorns, satyrs

This is just a guide to share the basics on this wonderful time of year that is almost upon us.

Blessings, Emily