Calendula: The Sunny Center

Happy Summer Solstice! 

Since we’ve just had the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, I thought it would be an appropriate time to show appreciation for calendula, a plant that really embodies sunlight. Just by looking at the flowers, it’s easy to see a resemblance to the sun in calendula’s warm yellow and orange glow, outwardly radiating petals, and cheerful round blooms.

I believe calendula also embodies the energy of the Tai qi in feng shui. The Tai qi is the center of the feng shui bagua map, which is a sort of energy map laid over a space, with different areas corresponding to different areas of life. The Tai qi is an important part of the bagua, and the center is an important part of your home, because it touches all of the other areas around it. Similarly, calendula petals radiate from a central point, and reach out in every direction. 

Just like our earth rotates around a central sun, all of the aspects of our lives rotate around our own centers. If we want to make any sort of change in our lives, we first need to start with our core, our foundation, and then let that change expand outwards. Calendula can be a symbol and a reminder of that center. 

From an herbalism perspective, calendula is often used to help with digestion, in the center of our bodies, another foundational aspect that touches every area of our health and wellbeing. It’s also used for emotional support. Like the sun, it can help to uplift our moods.

During this time of increased sunlight, I invite you to make time and space to connect with the energy of the sun. This could look like noticing sunny blooms when you’re out for a walk, bringing calendula artwork into your home, or even meditating on the feeling of sunshine. Whatever you choose, I wish you a luminous summer season full of clarity, warmth, and radiance.