A preliminary solstice reflection as we progress towards the peak of solar energy in the Northern Hemisphere. This episode explores what it means to live with nuance—to hold complexity in our dynamics, in our bodies, and in our relationship to the sun. From the myths of Circe and Helios to the physiological effects of sunlight on the body, it weaves ancient cultures with modern science, reverence with inquiry.
A light trace of historical summer rituals across different cultures—from China, Egypt, and Rome to the plains of Wyoming and Celtic fire festivals. We look at how our relationship to sunlight has shifted—from celebration to suspicion—and consider how red light therapy, heliotherapy, and circadian intelligence are part of a deeper remembering.
A reminder that the brightest light is revealing, humbling, healing, and grounding.
SHOW NOTES
Greek mythology: Circe, Helios, and the complexity of archetypes
Cultural solstice rituals: Xiazhi, Vestalia, the Sun Dance, Stonehenge, Litha
The duality of light: sunlight as both confrontational and life-giving
Heliotherapy and the science of red light
The body’s biological relationship to sun exposure: mood, hormones, and healing
Personal reflections on light, memory, and the need to pause at solar peak
A FEW RECOMMENDATIONS
If we’re going to talk about reveling and celebrating the sun, it helps to have a few tools that make basking in it feel like a ritual rather than a reckless sprint toward sun damage. The right hat, a reef-friendly SPF—it all adds to the pleasure of being out in the light.
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