Summer Solstice Prep: Cultivating Balance, Energy & Joy as the Days Grow Long

Welcoming the Light of the Season

Hey friends,

There’s something truly magical about mid-June. The days are stretching their longest, the gardens are lush, and everywhere you look, there’s life and color. It’s almost the solstice—the official start of summer and the perfect moment to pause, check in with yourself, and set intentions for the season ahead.

At Holistic Homesteaders Healing & Wellness, we believe in honoring these seasonal shifts with practical rituals, nourishing foods, and community connection. Whether you’re new to holistic living or deepening your practice, this is your invitation to make the most of summer’s light, energy, and potential.

1. The Meaning of the Summer Solstice

The summer solstice, usually falling around June 20–21, marks the longest day and shortest night of the year. For centuries, cultures around the world have celebrated this turning point with festivals, feasts, and rituals honoring the sun, abundance, and the earth’s bounty.

For us, the solstice is a reminder to:

• Celebrate growth—both in our gardens and ourselves

• Soak up the energy of the season

• Reflect on what we want to cultivate in the months ahead

Reflection Prompt:

Take a few minutes to journal:

• What has blossomed for you so far this year?

• What do you want to nurture through the rest of summer?

2. Seasonal Wellness: Aligning with Nature’s Rhythms

When we live in tune with the seasons, our routines, foods, and self-care naturally shift. Here’s how to align your wellness with early summer:

Morning Rituals for Energy

• Hydrate first thing: Start your day with a glass of water or herbal infusion (try lemon balm or mint).

• Gentle movement: Sun salutations, a walk in the garden, or a few minutes of stretching can help wake up your body and mind.

• Set an intention: What do you want your day to feel like? Write it down or say it out loud.

Midday Cooling Strategies

• Herbal iced teas: Peppermint, hibiscus, and lemon balm are cooling and hydrating.

• Light, fresh meals: Focus on salads, fruits, and veggies—your body will thank you.

• Rest in the shade: Don’t be afraid to take a break! Listen to your body’s cues.

Evening Wind-Down

• Reflect and release: Journal about your day, note your wins, and let go of what you don’t need to carry.

• Herbal baths: Add fresh mint or lavender to your bath for a soothing soak.

3. Herbal Allies for Summer Vitality

Nature offers so many tools for thriving in the heat. Here are a few favorites for June:

Peppermint

• Cooling for mind and body

• Supports digestion and relieves headaches

• Use in teas, infused waters, or as a facial spritz

Lemon Balm

• Calms nerves and uplifts mood

• Supports restful sleep and gentle digestion

• Lovely in teas, salads, or as a garden garnish

Hibiscus

• Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C

• Naturally cooling and supports heart health

• Makes a beautiful, tart iced tea

Calendula

• Soothes skin after sun exposure

• Use as a salve for cuts, scrapes, and bug bites

• Add petals to salads for a pop of color

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

• Adaptogenic, supports energy and stress resilience

• Brew as tea or add leaves to summer salads

4. Recipes & DIY: Bringing Summer Into Your Kitchen

Summer Solstice Iced Tea

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp dried hibiscus

• 1 tbsp dried lemon balm

• 1 tbsp dried peppermint

• 1 quart boiling water

• Fresh lemon slices, berries, or mint (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine dried herbs in a heatproof pitcher.

2. Pour boiling water over herbs and steep for 10–15 minutes.

3. Strain, chill, and serve over ice with fresh fruit or herbs.

Calendula After-Sun Salve

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried calendula petals

• 1 cup olive oil

• 1 oz beeswax

Instructions:

1. Infuse calendula petals in oil for 2 weeks (or gently heat for 2 hours).

2. Strain, then melt with beeswax.

3. Pour into tins and cool. Use on sun-kissed skin.

Fresh Herb Garden Salad

Ingredients:

• Mixed greens

• Fresh mint, basil, and lemon balm leaves

• Sliced cucumber, strawberries, and avocado

• Lemon juice and olive oil

Instructions:
Toss everything together and enjoy a vibrant, cooling meal.

5. Mindful Movement: Embracing the Outdoors

June’s long days are an invitation to move your body and connect with nature. Try:

• Early morning or evening walks

• Gentle yoga in the backyard or park

• Gardening (bonus: harvest your own herbs!)

• Barefoot grounding—feel the earth beneath your feet

Movement isn’t just about exercise—it’s about presence, joy, and gratitude for what your body can do.

6. Community & Connection: Summer Gatherings

Summer is made for gathering, whether it’s a backyard picnic, a class at Betty Virginia Park, or simply sharing a cup of tea with a friend.

• Host a potluck: Invite friends to bring a dish featuring seasonal produce or herbs.

• Join a class: Our herbal workshops are a great way to learn, connect, and have fun.

• Share your story: Tag us on Facebook or comment below with your favorite summer ritual or recipe.

7. Setting Intentions for the Rest of Summer

The solstice is a powerful time for intention-setting. Here’s a simple ritual you can try:

Solstice Intention Candle

• Light a candle (bonus if it’s herbal-scented!)

• Take a few deep breaths, centering yourself

• Reflect on what you want to cultivate this summer—write it down

• As you blow out the candle, imagine your intentions taking root and growing

8. Troubleshooting: Common Summer Wellness Challenges

Overheating & Dehydration

• Drink plenty of water and herbal teas

• Wear loose, light clothing and a sunhat

• Rest in the shade during peak heat

Summer Sleep Struggles

• Keep your room cool and dark

• Try a cup of lemon balm or chamomile tea before bed

• Limit screens an hour before sleep

Bug Bites & Minor Irritations

• Use calendula or plantain salve for relief

• Keep a small herbal first aid kit handy for outdoor adventures

9. Looking Ahead: What’s Next at Holistic Homesteaders

July is just around the corner, and we’ve got exciting things planned:

• Herbal Classes: Check our website for new summer dates and workshops.

• Book Launch: “Herbal Alchemy: Transforming Plants into Medicine” is available now!

• Newsletter Special: Subscribe for your first session free and use code NEWCLIENT for a special discount.

10. Reflection & Gratitude

As we approach the solstice, I invite you to slow down and savor the season. Notice what’s blooming in your life, give yourself credit for how far you’ve come, and set gentle intentions for where you want to go next.

Stay rooted,
Courtney Hay
Holistic Homesteaders Healing & Wellness