Summer Solstice

The whole of nature rejoices in summer’s longer days, especially the swallows who are the true harbingers of the season. Foxgloves bow their faces to avoid the heat, while yellow rattle make wildflower meadows of green pastures, and agrimony offers itself as sweet incense to thank the gods for the glory of summer. ^{_{(From: Portals into Deep Imagination)}}

The Summer Solstice sits midway between two Celtic festivals of fire, Beltane (1 May) and Lughnasadh (1 August). This exploration will consider the possible meaning of this time of year for the Celts and their Summer Solstice and Midsummer practices, and its relevance to us for today. Themes for reflection will include growth, fertility, inner fire, and factors which restrict growth (the Wicker Man/Woman within). We will also reflect on the meaning of transience and turning-point. Practices linked to these themes will take you on your own into nature for gentle explorations, and time in the group will allow you to reflect on your experiences, and the meaning of the Summer Solstice for you.

This exploration is informed by insights from psychotherapy and psychology, especially depth psychology, and the emphasis these perspectives bring to the value of metaphor, image, and symbol in personal growth and development.

Venue: Northumberland.

Date/times: Saturday 20 June | 10.00am to 4.00pm

Walk difficulty: Leisurely

Places: Maximum 6 places

Fee: There is no fee for this exploration. Instead, you can buy trees at £6 each via the Healing Trees grove on Trees for Life, in lieu of the usual £50 workshop fee. Planting trees in this grove helps to rewild the Caledonian Forest. Currently, mainly Oak, Rowan, and Scots Pine are planted in the Carn na Caorach area of the Dundreggan Estate (grid ref. NH330187). This is near the Loch Ness and Glen Affric National Nature Reserve. When the area is fully planted new areas will be identified.