Reflecting on Summer Solstice
Summer has arrived, bringing with it new energy, nature’s fullest blooms and the longest days of the year. Let the vibrance of summer draw you outdoors. Linger in the sunshine, take in the view and immerse yourself in the sensations of the season.
As we leave the verdant spring and open our arms to the golden days ahead, we turn to our Japanese roots to connect us to the intricacies of the seasonal shifts. Geishi or Summer Solstice, breaks down into three (of 72) micro seasons.
The first micro season begins on summer solstice. Natsukarekusakaruru (乃東枯) means "Self-heal withers." The self-heal plant is a medicinal herb with purple flowers that bloom in winter, so their withering symbolizes entry into summer. This micro-season reminds us of the impermanence of every season and its natural signs.
On June 26th, the micro-season Ayame hanasaku) 菖蒲華 begins. Translating to "Irises bloom" this period centers of the lush beauty of blossoming irises, commonly seen in wetland areas.
During the first week of July, we move into Hange shōzu(半夏生)or"Half-summer arrives.” This micro-season references the sprouting of medicinal herb hange, also known as crow-dipper. Traditionally, farmers were advised to finish rice planting ahead of hangeshozu.
Japanese micro-seasons are unique to the country’s climate and natural rhythms. Take some time to reflect on where you live and how the environment may be shifting with the seasons.
Try these reflection questions on your next camping trip or outdoor excursion to ground you in the season.
- - If you had to create three micro-seasons for where you live, what would they be?
- - What changes do you notice within yourself as we shift from spring into summer?
- - This year we're using the word vibrance to connect us to summer. How do you notice this word coming to life in nature or your experiences this season?
Planning your next camping trip? Don’t miss our collection of summer camping essentials to upgrade your campsite.
