As we approach the end of June, many people start talking about the upcoming Summer Solstice. But what is the Summer Solstice, and what role does it play in human life?
In the solar calendar, the Summer Solstice marks the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern Hemisphere. It occurs twice a year on Earth, once in each hemisphere. On the Summer Solstice, the Earth’s axis tilts towards the Sun at a maximum of 23.44 degrees. This is when the Sun reaches its highest point in the Northern Hemisphere before starting its journey back south.
1. What is the Summer Solstice?
The Summer Solstice is the 10th solar term out of 24 in a year
The Summer Solstice is the 10th solar term out of 24 solar terms, falling between Grain in Ear and Minor Heat. It is the solar term that characterizes summer the most, marking the beginning of the hottest and most harsh weather. The Summer Solstice has the longest day and shortest night in the Northern Hemisphere, and this extended daylight benefits the harvesting and growth of plants and animals.
2. When is the Summer Solstice in 2023?
The Summer Solstice usually starts on June 21 or 22 in the solar calendar
Annually, the Summer Solstice typically starts around June 21 or 22 in the solar calendar (after Grain in Ear) and ends around July 6 to 8 (before Minor Heat). In 2023, the Summer Solstice begins on Wednesday, June 21, and ends on Thursday, July 6, with the start of Minor Heat.
3. Characteristics of the Summer Solstice
The phenomenon of “White Nights” in Saint Petersburg, Russia, during the Summer Solstice
Characteristics of the Summer Solstice: When the Summer Solstice begins, the Northern Hemisphere tilts towards the Sun at an angle of 23.5 degrees, resulting in longer daylight hours. Consequently, the day during this solar term is the longest of the year, with more daylight than darkness, and the sun sets later while rising earlier. In some European countries, the Summer Solstice brings about the phenomenon of “White Nights.”
The Summer Solstice is characterized by hot and humid weather, which promotes the growth of flora and fauna, leading to an abundance of food sources. It is the time when crops grow vigorously, ensuring a timely harvest. However, it is also a period when microorganisms thrive and can cause significant harm to humans.
Characteristics of the Summer Solstice Day: This day marks the highest point of the Sun, but it is not necessarily the hottest day of the year as ocean temperatures also start to decrease. The Trade Winds and Monsoon Winds are active over the seas, resulting in prolonged heavy rains, storms, and natural disasters that can affect human lives. Additionally, the weather during the Summer Solstice is unpredictable, with intense heat and sudden rainfall, increasing the risk of catching diseases such as the flu, heatstroke, malaria, and dengue fever. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventive measures to maintain good health during this solar term.
4. Significance of the Summer Solstice
Significance of the Summer Solstice
From an energy perspective, according to the yin-yang and five elements theory, the Summer Solstice usually falls in the fifth lunar month, which is the Horse month in the Book of Changes, with the Li trigram representing the south and fire, signifying heat and haste,… During this month, the fire element is very strong, leading to enthusiastic and energetic personalities. However, they may also be short-tempered, hasty, and impulsive, struggling to control their emotions.
In terms of feng shui, the Summer Solstice is particularly auspicious for those with the fire element in their birth chart. Their careers will flourish, and they will encounter good fortune, promotions, and abundant wealth. On the other hand, those who are incompatible with the fire element may face challenges and obstacles. They may find themselves irritable and prone to conflicts and arguments with those around them.
5. What to Do During the Summer Solstice
Cool Down Your Body
Cool down your body
Keeping your body cool helps prevent blood-related and respiratory diseases. Avoid working outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, such as midday and early afternoon. Adjust your diet by incorporating more fruits, reducing oily and spicy foods, and minimizing the consumption of stimulants.
Maintain a Clean and Cool Environment
Maintain a clean and cool environment
One easy way to enhance your feng shui during the Summer Solstice is to keep your surroundings clean and tidy, attracting positive energy and abundant qi.
Practice Good Personal Hygiene
Practice good personal hygiene
Maintaining good personal hygiene during hot days will make you feel refreshed and energized. This sense of well-being can positively impact your relationships and work.
Eat Cooling Foods to Cleanse Heat
Eat cooling foods to cleanse heat
During the Summer Solstice, it is advisable to consume cooling foods such as , smoothies, , and so on.
Consume Garlic and Onions to Prevent Infectious Diseases
Consume garlic and onions to prevent infectious diseases
Infectious diseases are more prevalent during the summer, and eating plenty of , can boost your immune system to fight off illnesses.
6. What Not to Do During the Summer Solstice
Bathe at Night
Do not bathe at night
Not just during the summer, but bathing at night is dangerous at any time of the year. Taking a cold shower when your body is still warm can lead to health issues such as heatstroke and shock.
Sudden Changes in Temperature
Avoid sudden changes in temperature
The Summer Solstice is the hottest time of the year. For those working outdoors, avoid entering an air-conditioned room immediately, and vice versa, as it can cause a sudden change in body temperature and harm your nervous system.
Consume Excessive Amounts of Sweet Foods
Avoid consuming excessive amounts of sweet foods
During hot weather, people tend to crave sweet and cooling foods. However, it is essential to consume these foods in moderation, as excessive intake can lead to acne, increased blood sugar levels, and weight gain.
Cutting Hair
Do not cut your hair
According to ancient beliefs, cutting hair during the Summer Solstice is considered inauspicious. This period marks the transition between yin and yang, and any changes can bring about bad luck and affect one’s qi.
Marital Relations
Refrain from marital relations
According to ancient beliefs, the Summer Solstice is a time when yin and yang are in conflict, and life and death are separated. Engaging in marital relations during this time is believed to reduce one’s health and lifespan.