ChandraMa's Newsletter
June 2008

Blessings

There was no newsletter for April or May as my son, Jacob, was seriously ill and underwent life-saving surgery. During this period of time, Jacob and his four-year old daughter, Jenna, stayed with us so we could assist with his recuperation. Thank you to those that have sent healing energies, love, light and prayers. He is definitely on the mend and we are hopeful that he will be able to return to work on a limited duty basis by the end of this month.

June 20th is the beginning of Summer and Solstice falls on June 21st. The Full moon is on June 18th. These are all very powerful times energetically and great times to do rituals and ceremonies.

The word “solstice” comes from the Latin words solo, meaning “sun” and sistere meaning “cause to stand still.” As the days get closer to solstice, the sun moves progressively higher in the sky until the day it reaches its maximum height causing the longest day of light for the year. After that, the sun begins its journey downward decreasing the amount of light at Winter Solstice.

Rituals and ceremonies are held celebrating Summer Solstice in many traditions all over the world. Fires are lit to symbolize and promote fertility, strength and good fortune for the coming harvest. Because it is also around this time that the sun moves from Cancer (water sign) into Leo (a fire sign) water is associated with Summer Solstice as well. Many rituals and ceremonies will therefore utilize water, or be in or near the water.

With the sun so high in the sky and the chance of magnificent weather, summer has always been regarded as a time of rest and relaxation as well as healing. The strength of the sun at this time of year is believed to have powerful healing qualities particularly with plants and herbs. People also bathe and drink the healing waters of springs and lakes to capture this sunshine in order to gain health and good fortune. One plant saturated with the sun’s healing energies is St. John’s Wort, named because the belief is that it flowered on St John’s Day (June 24). St. John’s Wort flowers harvested at this time of year can be dried and kept until winter to be made into tea as they are believed to chase away the winter blues and doldrums.

No matter how you choose to celebrate this splendid time of year, in groups or alone, it is a glorious time to bring in healing, growth, strength and abundance for you and those around you. Have fun with it and enjoy these sun-filled days of summer.

Upcoming Events:

• July 16-19, 2008, Retreat with Amma in Marlboro, Massachusetts. For more information see www.Amma.org.
• July 21-24, 2008, Healing Through Sacred Sound and Light Harmonic Retreat, White Mountains, New Hampshire. For more information see www.internationalspiritualexperience.com.

Many Blessings,
Chandra Ma