Each day let in more Light

There are many cultural dates in July. Days to pause for thought and honour more Light as we are move consciously into longer days of sunshine.

Light is a potent symbol, a source of hope and truth and can awaken spiritual knowledge. Seize the day with gratitude for the significance of bringing in Light.

Seek the energy of a seed sprouting into a seedling out of the earth. Feel the growth which turns the stem from one side to another, spiralling its way towards the direction of the light. Follow the progress of the Sun as it shows us its face for more hours of the day and celebrate a special day of a well-known tradition.

Guru Poornima, the Full moon, early in July is a wide spread celebration, originating in Eastern cultures. What activity do you prefer on this day? To show respect in life to your spiritual and academic teachers? Maybe to make an offering, celebrate with other devotees, dedicate your spiritual practice or some charity work. This day is also known as Vyasa Purnima, for it marks the birthday of Veda Vyasa, the sage who authored the scripture of Mahabharata and compiled the Vedas, ancient texts.

St Mary Magdalene was raised to a Feast Day, 22 July, by Pope Francis in 2016 (1). Christianity both in the East and in the West has always regarded Saint Mary Magdalene the first witness of the Lord’s resurrection and the first evangelist, and with the greatest reverence has always honoured her although in diverse ways. Often held as an archetype of feminine empowerment by many in society.

A faithful disciple of Christ, Mary ministered to his needs after having cleansed of negative forces. She witnessed his crucifixion, was present at his burial, and was the first to see the risen Lord. She was commissioned by Christ to proclaim the good news of his resurrection to the apostles (John 20:17-18). She was recognised and was called a ‘witness of Divine Mercy’ by Saint Gregory the Great and an ‘apostle of the apostles’ by Saint Thomas Aquinas.

At the end of the month In the Southern hemisphere, the Gaelic festival Imbolc / Candlemas can be celebrated with preparation for the full moon on 2 August. Also known as Brigids’ Day, Imbolc is a time of new beginnings, fresh starts and cleaning out the old ready to welcome in the new. The Goddess Brigid is honoured as the triple Goddess in her Maiden aspect.

In Australia, the Wattle flower is most commonly used to adorn the Imbolc Altar or Sacred Space as the flower of choice, though any yellow, white or purple flowers are also often used. The festival of torches involves a traditional Pagan feast and the lighting of candles or lamps in every room (if only for a short while) to signify the returning of the Sun.

In every sense the term “Spring Cleaning” is very appropriate for this time of year, a perfect time to invite yourself to deep clean your home, sort out belonging and get rid of anything that is cluttering up your space, an easy practical approach to refresh yourself for the lighter months ahead.

Use a few drops of the essential oils in hot water to help the refresh along and add a touch of zing: Salt (purifying and grounding); Sage (purifying); Lemon Myrtle (gives energy and a clean smell); Patchouli (a few drops bring prosperity); Pine (brings prosperity and love).

Where you regularly practice Yoga and Meditation, cleanse well with a wipe over and mop and smoke with a cleansing herb like sage for a full refresh of energy. For yourself, consider engaging in some extra spiritual cleansing activity, dedicate with Light meditation or prayer. Bathing in salt water to cleanse your whole self is ideal and even to soak the feet in salt water makes a difference.

Encourage those you love to join you in celebrating the arrival of more light throughout July, most of all believe, visualise and appreciate a calm and peaceful light filled home.

Written by

Moira Gordon, Director Yoga for Good Foundation.

1. Liturgy Office | Proper of Saints: July