MIND-BODY-SPIRIT
Turning Point... ...continued from page 45
We can use the earth’s turning points to remind ourselves that we are always shifting, too, and it’s time to quietly, lovingly, look at ourselves in a new light. In the map of the year, the solstice is a crossroads. What we de- cide to do now determines whether we have what we need to thrive through to the next spring. Remembering that the goal is never perfec - tion, we can take a moment to honor the changes that have brought us somewhere new, and choose the next best step that will take us where we want to go. There are many ways to see what’s really going on. You could go through your journal, if you keep one. You could review your plan- ner and notice which activities are in alignment with your goals and dreams. Dust off your favorite Tarot deck, or call a friend for a long talk about your lives. Create a mind map or a collage that intuitively shows you where you are. Whatever you do, be gentle with yourself. A turning point is a gift, not an obligation. The clear light of the longest day puts a pin in the map of your life: “You are here; is it where you want to be?” Be honest with yourself, and the next right step will bring resources to fuel a season of discov- ery. Is it Time for Creative Revival? Your Creativity Shines in the Solstice Sun Not everyone chooses the artist’s or writer’s path, but everyone is creative in their own way. Turning points are an opportunity to let that creativity spark and grow, wherever we claim our imaginative and innovative gifts. The summer solstice, when the sun pauses in its mi- raculous, scientific, mysterious journey, opens a door to inspiration in our daily lives. In the extra hours of daylight given to us at June’s solstice, we have the opportunity to give ourselves the time to be fully alive as creative beings. How will you know what to do? Ask yourself what you love to do, and you’ll find your ingenuity, passion, and pleasure. For a few hours, get into the flow. If you are an artist or writer, the solstice can become your day to re- new your deepest creative goals. Jump start that project you’ve parked for too long. Take the first steps towards an idea that’s been following you around for too long, begging to be turned into a painting, a novel, a sculpture, or anything you can share with the world. It’s your time, and the here and now has never been more bright. The summer sun stretches and so can you! “What calls you, again and again, asking to be made new and whole, unexpected and beauti- The solstice is a transition in time and light, vibrating through our bodies and spirits, our habits and hopes, with the potential of con- necting the soul to the seasons in a deeper way. Whether you celebrate this annual turning point through ritual, prayer, self-assessment, or exploration, your choices on the longest day of the year could welcome something wonderful in the months to come. It is the perfect time to put down roots that will grow into the riches that fuel an abundant, joyful year. Carol Burbank is a writing coach and life coach, and founder of Storyweaving (www.storyweaving.com), celebrating creative explo - ration through writing, teaching and change management support with individuals and organizations since 2004. She offers retreats and workshops at the Storyweaving Retreat Center, online, and in organizations/centers across the country. Her book, Where the Light Gets In: Essays on Leadership and Spirit , will be published by CSL Press in 2024. Photo by Carol Burbank. ful?” Answer, and fuel a season of magic. Stretch with the Sun on June 21
will support our commitment to being strong. The summer sun asks, “What are you ready to do to love and light- en your body in this infinite, brief moment of turning?” Answer, and fuel a season of health. Is it Time for an Energetic Reboot? Your Spirit Naturally Rises to Meet the Sun’s Warmth Remember when summer was a vacation from schoolwork, a time of playing outside or making new friends at camp, or spending hours in the local pool, floating in the shimmering light? Play has the power to re-energize us to learn, to rest, and to grow. When was the last time you let yourself “indulge” in the vitality of playful exploration? It’s a shame that most adults let work and responsibility become our dominant activity as we age. No wonder we sag as the sun sets. Why not make the longest day of the year a day to rediscover the pow- er of play? Give yourself a break — explore, or better yet, fall into your hammock or a nearby pool and float in the revitalizing sun. The summer solstice is perfect for gathering energy for life, because everything you need is at your fingertips: light, warmth, fertility, and pause. No matter how old we are, these essential elements of play combine to recharge us and prepare us for the next cycle, whatever it might bring. The summer sun invites you: “Listen to your spirit and embrace what delights you; play and fill yourself with abundant energy!” Em - brace the moment, and fuel a season of joy. Is it Time for Self-Assessment? Your Life Choices are Illu- minated in the Sunlight The summer solstice offers a pause in the swiftly turning days of our busy lives, if we are willing to take advantage of the opportunity.
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46—PATHWAYS—Summer 23
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