Illuminating a Path of Progress

We are fast-approaching the halfway mark of the year, also known as Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year which falls on June 21. Summer Solstice has been celebrated around the world for centuries and many ancient sacred sites were built to align with this day: the Great Pyramids in Egypt perfectly frame the sun on the solstice, Stonehenge in England gives rise to sun from the Heel Stone, the Temple of Sun at Machu Picchu in Peru aligns with the sun in a way that illuminates a large ceremonial stone—only once a year. Ancient cultures that built these sacred sites respected the summer solstice alignment. It would be best to follow their wisdom and use the day as an opportunity to re-align ourselves with the goals we had once set at the beginning of the year.

The Summer Solstice is a time to honor moving from darkness into the light. Reflect on the goals you set for 2015. Did you stray into the darkness and totally forget them? Are there old patterns or habits in your life that you need to overcome in order to become the best possible version of yourself?

Let this not be the year you add another unfilled New Year’s resolution to your list of reasons for why you think you are a failure. Remember 2015 is your year for victory. Awareness is the key to success; this is the year you bring light to the darkness and realign yourself and your progress with attaining your goals.

Step 1: Be honest with yourself. Try to identify where you strayed from the path of accomplishing your goals. Take a moment now and think back.

Step 2: Forgive yourself for straying. Yes, I said forgive yourself. Anytime you set a goal and fail, guilt can consume you and impede your progress. Failure is a natural part of life and should be expected somewhere along your path. Realign yourself by remembering why you set such a goal or find something new to greater motivate or inspire you to get past your failures.

Step 3: Re-commit to your goal. Be proud of taking steps to shine a light on the darkness in your life. Come up with a plan to make this next attempt a more successful one.

Step 4: (My favorite) Go outside and face East. As you inhale, raise your arms up towards the sky and embrace the light of the day. Let this be a powerful reminder of the light within you. As you exhale, bow forward with gratitude, recognizing each dark experience in life brings with it an opportunity for greater wisdom and happier times.

Wishing you a sacred Summer Solstice as you move forward towards your dreams.