English 
Bulgarian 
Midsummer is a holiday celebrated on June 24 and is associated with herbs, nature and magical beliefs. It has a long history and is celebrated in many countries, mainly in Bulgaria and other Slavic nations. Midsummer has ancient roots and is associated with sun worship and herbs. In Slavic mythology, Midsummer is the day of the Slavic god Yarovit, who is the god of vegetation, fertility and health. It is associated with the animal cult, where sacrificial animals are put on fire in order to ensure fertility and protection from evil spirits.
Midsummer is full of symbolism and beliefs. For example, it is believed that the night before Midsummer is magical and in it everyone can see their future. Women who want to find their destiny climb a high hill and descend from it with a shrunken robe, this is believed to attract a husband and family.
Here are some of the traditions and ritual customs that are still practiced today:
Collection of herbsA: One of the main traditions of Midsummer is the collection of herbs. It is believed that on this day herbs are the strongest and have healing properties. People go out into the fields, forests and mountains to find various herbs such as hen party, oregano, calendula, nettle, white horsetail and others. Mixing different herbs and preserving them throughout the year is considered magical and healing.
When collecting herbs on Midsummer there are certain beliefs and rules that are followed. One of them is that only healthy and undamaged plants should be collected. Some people choose to collect the herbs in the early hours of the morning when they are believed to be at their strongest and freshest.Once the herbs are collected, they can be used in a variety of ways. Some people use them for cooking tea or soups, while others dry and store them for later use. Mixing different herbs is a common practice, as it is believed that the combination of different plants can amplify and enhance their properties.
Gathering herbs on Midsummer is a beautiful and exciting tradition that connects people with nature and its bounties. It is an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and benefit from the power and benefits of herbs.
SunbathingA: It is believed that sunbathing on Midsummer has a special power and beneficial effect on the body. On this day, the sun is at its peak position in the sky and emits strong rays that are associated with life force and energy. Exposure to the sun on this day is considered to be renewing and rejuvenating.
The advantages of sunbathing are numerous. They help the body produce vitamin D, which is important for bone health and the immune system. Also, sunbathing stimulates the production of serotonin, the happiness hormone, which can improve mood and reduce stress and depression. Sunbathing also improves circulation, stimulates metabolism and promotes the synthesis of some important substances in the body. When practicing sunbathing, it is important to observe certain precautions. For best effect, it is advisable to expose yourself to the sun in moderation and at short intervals.
Sunbathing on Midsummer's Day is a wonderful way to connect with nature, enjoy the sunshine and recharge. They combine tradition, health benefits and the joy of spending time outdoors. Although associated with Midsummer, sunbathing can be practiced all summer long when the sun is bright and warm.
Fire ritesA: One of the most famous Midsummer rituals is lighting a fire. It is believed that fire, as a symbol of the sun, purifies and protects from diseases and evil spirits. People jump over the fire or spin around it, as this is considered a symbol of purification and transformation.
Fire also plays an important role in other Midsummer rituals. For example, people go outdoors and arrange stones or branches in the shape of a cross, which they then light. This is an expression of blessing and protection, as the cross of fire is considered a symbol of light and divine power. In addition, other fire rituals are practiced on Midsummer's Day. People rejoice and dance around a fire circle, performing songs and dances. This gathering around the fire is considered communal and attracts happiness and prosperity. Midsummer fire rituals also have symbolic significance. They are associated with the sun and fertility, with transformation and new life. Fire is thought to be a force of purification and transition that burns away the old and opens the way for the new.
These Midsummer fire rituals are part of the heritage and traditions of many cultures and peoples. They combine the mysticism of fire, beliefs in its influence on spiritual and physical well-being, and the joy of social gatherings and celebrations.
Rites for health and protectionA: It is believed that Midsummer is a day to blunt and protect against disease and evil forces. People go out to meadows or forests where various rituals are held for healing and purification. This may include gathering healing herbs, burning wreaths or conducting rituals around a fire.
Rituals for fertilityA: Midsummer is associated with beliefs about the fertility of the earth, plants and human offspring. People take to the fields and gardens where they perform rituals related to crops and harvest. For example, wreaths of flowers and herbs are made and hung on doorways or laid in fields to attract fertility and abundance.
Rites for love and marriageA: Midsummer is believed to be an auspicious time for love, marriage and family happiness. People go to rivers and springs where they perform rituals related to falling in love and preserving marriage. For example, flowers or wreaths are thrown into the water and ritual songs and dances are performed to attract love and concord in the family.
Rites for protection from evil forcesA: Midsummer is also associated with beliefs to ward off evil forces and protect against misfortune and trouble. People use various protective symbols and rituals, such as wearing wreaths woven of medicinal herbs and flowers, or burning almonds, which is thought to ward off evil.
Rituals for predicting the futureA: On Midsummer Day, various rituals are also practiced to foretell the future. People perform rituals with the water by dropping small floating ships into it, in which wishes and predictions for the coming year are written. According to beliefs, the water will carry these messages and make them come true in the coming year.
Midsummer is a celebration that combines ancient rituals, beliefs and a connecting power with nature. It is a time for gathering herbs, sunbathing and sharing joy and well-being with loved ones. This tradition is part of the cultural heritage of Bulgaria and other Slavic peoples, preserved and celebrated throughout the centuries.
