The summer solstice, which took place last week, is the time of year when the sun reaches its zenith, giving us the longest day of the year.
Summer is here, with its sunny days and soothing evenings. It’s a time of light and growth, marking the beginning of the Cancer season and inviting us to slow down and recharge our batteries. Just as we balance the energies in our homes with Feng Shui, we can align our inner energy with natural cycles. I found a beautiful article by Jill Wintersteen that inspired this week’s blog post.
The Summer Solstice and the Sun Cycle
The summer solstice is a time of transition, when we move from the action of spring to the patience of summer. It’s the perfect time to reconnect with nature and honour the light within us, just as the sun does. In Feng Shui, light is a metaphor for the positive energy, or Chi, that should flow freely through our home and our lives. By aligning our energy with that of the sun, we encourage a harmonious flow of Chi, conducive to personal growth and well-being.
Last year, in my article on summer, I explained that each zone of the bagua is associated with a season. And that summer is represented by the South zone and by the Fire element. You might think that it’s a time of intense activity, when you have to be on fire, but it’s not 😉
Honouring the 4 directions
In her article, Jill points out that we should honour the 4 directions, and that we can ask them for help and guidance. In Feng Shui we are also very attached to the 4 cardinal directions, as they are the compass that helps us determine the quality of different types of Chi.
East (Spring): this direction represents new beginnings and vitality. It is ideal for reflecting on the new opportunities that have arisen in our lives. Spring is a season of renewal and growth, symbolising the fresh, vibrant Chi that emerges after winter.
South (Summer): Symbolising light and passion, the south is the perfect direction to meditate on your goals and purpose. In summer, the Chi is at its most vibrant and intense, encouraging us to live life to the full and nurture our passions.
West (Autumn): This direction evokes decline and reflection, a time to identify what you need to get rid of in order to progress. Autumn is a time of harvest and letting go, when the Chi begins to slow down and prepare for winter.
North (Winter): Representing wisdom and regeneration, North is the direction to think about the guidance you need for your personal journey. Winter is a season of introspection and rest, when the Chi is calm and invites us to reflect and plan.
Setting Intentions for the Summer
Since the energies of summer encourage patience, it’s a powerful time to set intentions aligned with themes such as patience, perseverance and trust. In Feng Shui, to align ourselves with our life aspirations, we can use affirmations to strengthen nurturing Chi.
Create statements such as “I receive the energy I need to nourish my growth” or “I trust the process of life”. Repeat these affirmations every day to attract the energy you wish to manifest.
Similarly, expressing gratitude is essential in Feng Shui for attracting abundance. Write statements of gratitude for what you have and what you wish to manifest. Feeling gratitude for what we want before we have it sends a powerful message to the universe. Re-read my article on the law of attraction for inspiration 😉
The summer months are a perfect opportunity to honour the light within us and harmonise our energy with that of nature. By integrating the principles of Feng Shui into our summer practices, we can create an environment conducive to growth, patience and trust. Celebrate this season by aligning yourself with natural cycles and nurturing your inner light, bringing the sun into your heart.
