What is the Summer Solstice?

In Sedona the summer solstice will occur June 20, 2012 @ 4:08 PM. In the Northern Hemisphere, the date varies between June 20th and June 22 depending on the year. The June Solstice occurs when the sun is at its furthest point from the Equator. Those of us living north of the Equator experience the longest hours of daylight. The word solstice means sun stopping. If you lived or visited north of the Arctic Circle you would be able to see the Midnight Sun where the sun remains visible throughout the night. In the southern hemisphere it’s the shortest day of the year and marks the beginning of winter.
In Ancient times, solstices and equinox were very important for guiding people to develop calendars. The Maya were experts in this area and studied the sky with great persistence and respect. Hence, the Mayan Calendar is of much controversy still today. The calendar and knowledge of the seasons were very important for growing crops, which was their main food source. Over the centuries the Solstice marked a time for celebration and festivals.
It is believed that Stonehenge, built in 3100 BC was built to establish when the solstice occurred. The sun rises at a particular point on the horizon as viewed from the center of the stone circle on the day of the solstice. In the Orient, Summer Solstice ceremonies celebrate the earth’s femininity and yin forces. It complemented the winter yang solstice.
In North America the Native Americans held many rituals and ceremonies on the Solstice. The Sioux were known to hold one of the most spectacular festivals. The cutting and rising of a tree would be considered a visible connection between heaven and earth. They put tepees in a circle representing the cosmos. They abstained from food or drink. They danced with their bodies painted in colors of red [sunset], blue [sky], yellow [lighting], white [light], and black [night].
There are many New Age and Neopagan groups around the world that celebrate Solstice. In Sedona there are many ceremonies and retreats to refresh, revitalize, and gain clarity, There is a water wheel ceremony at the Medicine Wheel created during 11/11 ceremonies.
Summer Solstice is a wonderful time for prayer and introspection of ones connection to the universe. Bonfires signify releasing the past and flowers picked during summer solstice are said to heal.
Where ever you are or whatever you do. Have a great Summer Solstice

About the Center for the New Age

Spirit guided us to this special place which centuries earlier was used by ancient people as a ceremonial site. We were guided by Spirit to open the Center at this place which is now the heart of spirituality in Sedona.
Description
We’ve searched the globe and pulled the most accurate Psychics and Healers and amazing Massage-Therapists from all over the world who have come here to be part of this special community, whose energy makes them even more psychic. Their services are offered at the Center daily and by phone at (928) 282-2085.
Center for the New Age
341 State Route 179
across from Tlaquepaque
Sedona, AZ 86336-6111
888-881-6651 Free
928-282-2085 Main
928-282-7220 Concierge

www.sedonanewagestore.com
in**@se****************.com