The Wheel of the Year - Litha

Following the Wheel of the Year and its eight sabbaths is a fairly new practice for me, but for many modern pagans and witches it is an integral part of their life, following the ebb and flow of nature and living in harmony with the seasons.

The Summer Solstice, also known as Litha, falls traditionally on the longest day of the year. The Earth's tilt towards the sun is on its maximum and the Northern Hemisphere leans closest to the sun, resulting in the most sunlight that day. Around the pole circle the sun will not go down at all.

Even though Summer is only just starting, Litha is the peak of summer, and days will now slowly starting to shorten again as we move through the year towards Yule, the Winter Solstice (21 December). The sun's temperature will continue to warm up the earth, so don't worry, Litha doesn't mean summer is over now! Here in the UK we tend to have nice weather for July and August as well, and sometimes even in September.

Traditionally, Litha has been celebrated all over the globe by many different cultures and societies. Litha is a time to honour the sun for its ability to bring lush growth and abundance to the land, as now we see most plants and trees in full bloom and we can smell the aromas of herbs and hear the sounds of birds and insect continuously through the day.

How to celebrate Litha?

Enjoy nature - in whatever form you want to! Create a summer flower bouquet for your home, altar or sacred space, or maybe even wear it in your hair. Eat summer vegetables, or make yourself a lovely summer herb tea, with some honey. Or just simply go for a hike or walk outside!

If you want to charge your crystals in Summer Solstice light, please be aware not to put them in direct sunlight. Some crystals might fade in direct sunlight, where others will enhance the sun rays (like a magnifying glass) and might scorch or even start a fire. Just place your crystals outside or on a window ledge so they can soak up the Litha energy.