Celebrate Summer Solstice by day, but also by night

Kim Chilton Griffith
Jun 20, 2020
3 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

The Summer Solstice — the official start of summer — arrives when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. It’s the longest day and the shortest night of the year, a reminder to embrace both light and rest, energy and renewal.

While the day invites celebration, the night calls for reflection — a softer, quieter rhythm that helps us reconnect to balance.

So after you’ve enjoyed the warmth and sunshine, remember to give your body and spirit the restoration they deserve.

Here’s how I prepare for my favorite kind of evening — one designed for calm, clarity, and beautiful rest.

Dream On: My 4 Nightly Rituals

1. Shower or Bathe Before Bedtime A warm shower or bath is one of my favorite ways to ease tension and reset. Add bath salts, bubbles, and softly scented candles to set the tone and calm the mood. If time is short, hang eucalyptus leaves in your shower — the natural steam releases their soothing aroma and melts away the day.

2. Slip Into Something Soft Comfort is a ritual in itself. After bathing and moisturizing, I reach for lightweight cotton pajamas — usually a soft tank and shorts. Breathable fabrics help regulate temperature and make it easier to drift into deeper sleep.

3. Sip Something Soothing My nightly brew is a mix of chamomile and bedtime tea — two or three bags steeped strong for a rich, herbal flavor. It feels medicinal in the best way, signaling to my mind and body that it’s time to unwind.

4. Soothe the Soul Before bed, I write in my gratitude journal — simple notes on what I’m thankful for that day. Gratitude opens the door for even more to appreciate. Then, a few minutes of meditation and quiet affirmations set my subconscious in the right direction before I sleep.

Create Your Sleep Sanctuary: 4 Bedroom Must-Haves

1. Sleep Your bed should be your sanctuary — a place that feels as beautiful as it is comfortable. Invest in quality bedding, supportive pillows, and blackout window coverings to create true rest and solitude. A proper frame and headboard anchor your room and elevate both style and sleep experience.

2. Sheets (and More) For summer, I love crisp white bedding — fresh, clean, and timeless. Choose natural fibers like cotton or linen to keep airflow balanced through the night. And yes, thread count matters, but breathability matters more. I’ve recently added a lavender-infused pillow — it’s heaven. Keep the space minimal and uncluttered. Simplicity calms the senses.

3. Silence and Sleep Stories Quiet is essential. Dim the lights, power down your screens, and let silence settle. Sleep stories are a lovely modern ritual — adult bedtime stories layered with soft narration or nature sounds. I love The Grown-Up Wind-Down on YouTube for peaceful transitions into rest.

4. Scents and Silk Once the candles are out, carry the scent through essential oil sprays or diffusers. Lavender is my favorite for relaxation. A silk or gel eye mask can deepen the darkness — and, in my case, even help with sinus headaches.