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June 2008
MIDSUMMER
In the Earth’s northern hemisphere, June is the month of the summer solstice. The day of June 21st is the longest day of the entire year. The farther north you go, the longer the light of the sun can be seen. On the Polish coast of the Baltic Sea, evening is only a narrow strip of the horizon; farther north, day does not quite turn into night. In many northern countries, people spend the longest days of the year with festivals and celebrations. Often the joie de vivre and health are the focus.
The Northern tradition
There is hardly a better opportunity to watch the day turn to night than "midsummer". In Sweden, it is the second most important festival after Christmas. Celebrations are held outside; groups of friends meet and light big bonfires and sing traditional songs. Body and soul are fortified with traditional dishes. Herring, sour cream and crispy bread are brought to the table. Swedish strawberries with cream make for a delicious dessert.
Health as a focus
Midsummer Day is traditionally considered a mystical day with special powers. In popular belief, the long sunshine has a particularly stimulating effect on plant growth. The collection of healing herbs is also part of the midsummer ritual. Even the dew that gathers on the plants on the longest day is supposed to possess magical powers for health. For a rejuvenating and refreshed look in the morning after a night of celebrating, we recommend a regenerating night creme. Today, the beneficial effect of herbs like St. John’s wort, mugwort, verbena, chamomile which is contained in NIVEA Sensitive products, Achillea ptarmica or calendula which is contained in NIVEA hand products has been scientifically proven.
