As we begin to bask in the warmth of the summer season, often accompanied by a change of pace or perhaps a well-deserved vacation, it's an ideal moment to cultivate a discipline of reflection. But, what does the month of June really represent? First, June is named after Juno, the ancient Roman goddess of marriage and childbirth. Juno, in Roman religion, was the chief goddess and female counterpart of Jupiter, similar to the relationship between the Greek Hera and Zeus. Perhaps not surprisingly, given her role of protector of women and children, this powerful queen of the gods was also considered the fierce protector and special counsellor of the state and a guardian angel warning those in times of danger. June is also the first month of astronomical summer in the Northern Hemisphere and astronomical winter in the Southern Hemisphere and is generally known as the time when many schools let students out for their summer vacation. And, Summer Solstice, which shifts between June 20th -21st, is known as the longest day of the summer while its' birthstones are the Pearl, the Moonstone and the Alexandrite 💎
For most of us in North America, June represents the beginning of summer with warmer days, cooler evenings, the early morning chirping and calls of birds, the smell of fresh cut grass, ice cream cones and the loud, buzzing drone noise coming from the trees on hot days from the Cicada - holding the record for the longest sound in the world 🦋
For me, summer means many things such as childhood memories, feeling free, light hearted and the constant yearning be outdoors forever fresh in my mind. While having shed ourselves of heavy coats, boots and clothing, we begin to peel away the layers and embrace lighter materials, sandals and open toes grounding and connecting to Mother Earth. Enjoying more time with family and friends as well as participating in street festivals, patio dining, outdoor activities are just a few of the highlights. It is this time of year, that I become less engaged in my studies and more abundant in forest bathing, reflection, resting and finding peace with a book in hand, under an old Oak tree. 💙
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