June is typically the month for celebration — weddings, graduations, Father’s Day, and the summer solstice. But who feels blissful and ready to celebrate after all the sequestering at home, washing hands, standing six feet apart, wearing masks, and not touching our faces? 

How can you fire up your happy dance? This might be the month when you need to fake it till you make it. It may not be so hard to do. There are many inspiring icons associated with this last month of spring, and … this is cherry season.

Hera is the ultimate matriarch of domestic bliss. 

The month of June derives its name from the Roman Goddess Juno, also known in Greece as Hera, Goddess of women, marriage, childbirth, children, and family. People have long thought it is lucky to marry in June because marriages would be blessed by Hera, and stand a better chance of being long and happy. The Goddess reminds us to be grateful and celebrate our homes now. 

June’s gemstones can inspire transformation.

We can look to the birthstones associated with the children of June for inspiration to celebrate. June has two gems: pearl and moonstone.

Pearls are valued for their calming effect; they represent serenity, while being able to strengthen valuable relationships and convey a sense of safety. They also symbolize purity, as well as integrity and loyalty. According to history and myth, pearls are symbolic of wisdom gained through experience. These gems are believed to offer protection, as well as attract good luck and wealth. 

Think about how the oyster takes an irritating grain of sand and turns it into a pearl. We can learn from this example and rethink our current circumstances from disrupting to transformative. While we may still be strolling around in our yoga pants, maybe we can also put on our pearls!

Moonstone represents new beginnings and inner strength. It soothes emotional instability and stress, stabilizes the emotions, and brings calm. Moonstone enhances and promotes inspiration, success, and good fortune in love and business matters. It connects us to the Divine and encourages introspection. Gather June’s gems around you and pay attention to what’s working right. 

It’s time to smell the roses.

Another icon of June is the rose. Roses have long been associated with love, devotion, and beauty. They were considered sacred by the Egyptians, they have medicinal value, and they’re widely used in cosmetics and perfume. 

Roses are out in abundance now. Take a moment and stop to smell them, or bring them into the house and put them on display in a pretty vase. Bringing the beauty inside can bring joy to the heart. And no need to stop at only one bouquet — fill your home with the fragrance of love. 

Enjoy a bowl full of cherries.

But of all the treasures associated with June, my personal favorite is cherries. These little sweethearts are in season and ready to be savored now as a delicious healthy treat (or you can preserve them in brandy for a tasty winter delight). Cherries are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, high in fiber, vitamins and minerals, and have muscle and heart protective properties. 

Why not turn this June into a bowl full of cherries! Face masks or not, there is so much beauty and reason to celebrate life. This month wear your pearls (or moonstones), adorn yourself with roses, and indulge in fresh organic cherries. After a week or so into June you may discover that you’re no longer faking it. You are making joy a reality.

Enjoy a Gorgeously Healthy June,

Gay