#SelfCareSunday Solstice Synesthesia

June 11, 2017 — #SelfCareSunday, #synesthesia, celebrations, solstice

Solstice

Solstice

In ancient times the calendar and the clock were primary ways to communicate to the population. Holidays, and the Sabbath every week, were commemorated and acknowledged. Today we have less formally structured time, and many of us work on weekends. Sunday was dedicated to the sun once upon a time, and the solstice twice a year was viewed as significant.  The marking of midsummer in agricultural societies was a celebration of  bounty and fertility.  Working the land in harmony with the stars and planets was a tradition that included observance of the astronomical events in the heavens.  After the solstice the sun begins the journey back to the other hemisphere.  The days will become shorter, just as now they are increasing.

Solstice will occur on a Wednesday in 2017, so I am making a few preparations to be ready in my heart and in my home for a new season.  My celebration will involve synesthesia of colors, sounds, and flavors of this season.  I am creating  special menus for the week that feature the foods and drinks that spotlight summer.  Grilled veggies and picnic style presentation remind me of my childhood.  Seasonal cocktails make the adult party complete.  I will be working up this party theme for the next 10 days, so I have time to find the best seasonal fruits on the market.  The full strawberry moon has just passed, but the strawberries are in full swing.  Berries and stone fruits like peaches, apricots and nectarines are both visual beauties and very tasty additions to any summer table.  I like to eat berries straight up, but will probably make a shortcake to elevate the dessert factor.

I have been switching out my wardrobe and bed linens for the season, choosing lighter, brighter colors.  It feels good to me to put all my winter clothing away to make space for what works now. I hope to complete this chore today, which will make me feel accomplished.  I will reward myself with a long lavender scented epsom salts bath when those sweaters and jackets are all packed and stored until I need them next fall. I am listening to new music, trying new sounds as background.  I think Baroque music just sounds like this time of year….it is zippy, light, bright, and happy.  I have been listening and dancing around my house in anticipation of a harvest of happy times in 2017.

Synesthesia is the fusion of the senses.  Sight, sound, taste, feel, and scent are purposely brought together to create a strong sensory impression. How will you prepare for your own midsummer’s night? I invite you to join me in a sensuous and pleasurable gratitude party.

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave