International Sun Day: Spotlight on a universal celebration… and interior
of reading
Honoring the Sun, source of all life
The Sun is much more than just a star in our sky. In almost all civilizations and spiritual traditions, it is a symbol of life, energy, clarity, and rebirth . It is therefore no surprise that a global day is dedicated to it: International Sun Day , celebrated every year on May 3 .
But what does this day mean? What is its origin? And above all, what link can we make between this external light and the internal light , at the heart of the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism ?
Let’s dive together into a solar journey, between science, traditions, spirituality and mindfulness practices.
1. Origin of International Sun Day
International Sun Day (or Sun Day ) was established in 1978 by US President Jimmy Carter , at a time when energy and environmental issues were becoming central. Its initial objective was to raise awareness of the importance of solar energy as an alternative to fossil fuels, by promoting renewable solar technologies.
Since then, the date of May 3 has been preserved in many countries as a time to:
- Celebrating the vital role of the Sun in nature and climate balance,
- Encourage the use of solar energy in homes, businesses and public policies,
- Recall our fundamental connection with nature and the need for a more sustainable way of life.
But beyond the scientific and ecological aspect, this day is also a wonderful spiritual opportunity : that of reconnecting with the light... outside and within oneself .
2. The Sun in the great spiritual traditions
Throughout human history, the Sun has always been worshipped as a deity or sacred principle . It is found in various forms:
- Ra in Egypt, solar god creator of the world,
- Surya in Hinduism, solar deity mounted on his chariot drawn by seven horses,
- Inti among the Incas, center of the religious pantheon,
- Amaterasu in Japanese Shintoism, goddess of the Sun and light.
In all these traditions, the Sun is seen as a cosmic force of creation, healing, and enlightenment . It symbolizes awakened consciousness, truth, and the light that dispels ignorance .
3. The Sun in Buddhism and Tibetan tradition
a. A powerful spiritual metaphor
In Tibetan Buddhism , the Sun is not worshipped as a deity, but used as a symbol of the awakened mind . It represents:
- Clarity of mind (the Buddha nature within us),
- The light of wisdom that dispels the darkness of ignorance,
- Radiant love and compassion .
This symbolism is often found in sacred texts: the Sun is compared to the awakened, stable, luminous and naturally pure spirit .
A Tibetan proverb says:
"The sun is not afraid of dust: it passes through it and still shines."
b. The solar mandala
Some Tibetan mandalas use a radiating sun-shaped structure to symbolize the expansion of consciousness from the center. These figures are used for meditation to center the mind and develop clear vision .
c. The role of the Sun in energy practices
Tibetan yoga ( Trul Khor ), conscious breathing, and visualization practices sometimes use the Sun as a focus . Visualizing a golden solar disk in the heart or between the eyebrows activates the inner fire , called tummo , the source of transformation and purification.
4. Tibetan rituals inspired by the Sun
Although International Sun Day is not a Tibetan religious holiday, several practices can be associated with it spiritually:
Meditation on Sunlight
Sit facing the sun (or a soft light source). Close your eyes and visualize a golden ray entering you through the crown of your head, descending into your heart, and radiating throughout your body. Breathe slowly and let this light purify and revitalize every cell.
Recitation of solar mantras
Some mantras from the Hindu or Buddhist tradition can be recited:
- Om Suryaya Namaha : salutation to the Sun, source of life.
- Om Ah Hum : universal Tibetan mantra of purification, to be recited in synchronization with light.
Offerings to the Light
Tibetan monks make daily offerings of light ( candles , butter lamps) to dispel the darkness of ignorance and honor awakened wisdom. May 3rd can be an opportunity to repeat this gesture at home: lighting a candle with a clear intention , in silence.
5. Chakras and the Sun: focus on the 3rd chakra
In the energetic vision shared between yoga and Tibetan medicine, the solar plexus chakra ( Manipura , or fire chakra) is directly linked to the Sun:
- It governs will, confidence, vitality , physical and emotional digestion,
- Its element is fire , its color golden yellow,
- A balanced chakra here helps us to radiate, act with confidence and be centered.
Working this chakra on May 3rd, through breathing or solar yoga, is an excellent way to align with the energy of the day .
6. Natural stones linked to the Sun and its energy
Certain stones are particularly powerful for working with solar energy :
- Stone of joy, confidence and abundance.
- Energizes the solar plexus chakra.
- Ideal for attracting light in times of fatigue or doubt.
- Brings motivation, courage, inner warmth.
- Anchors vital energy and revives creative momentum.
- Sun protection stone.
- Gives strength, lucidity and clarity of action.
Amber
- Solar resin used for thousands of years.
- Warms the energetic body, relieves tension, brings serenity.
Golden rutile quartz
- Strengthens concentration, mental clarity and inner radiance.
These stones can be worn as jewelry, placed on the altar, or used during the solar meditation ritual.
7. How to celebrate Sun Day with Univers Tibet?
- Do a 3-minute meditation with solar visualization (like the one included in your newsletter),
- Light a candle or oil lamp in homage to the inner light,
- Carry a sunstone or hold it for a moment of silence,
- Express simple gratitude for life, warmth, energy received,
- Decorate a small sacred space with yellow, gold or bright objects.
What if the Sun wasn't just in the sky?
International Sun Day is much more than an ecological celebration. It is an invitation to shine, to reconnect with our own light, to meditate on the clarity, wisdom, and energy that reside within us .
In Tibetan traditions, the outer sun is only the reflection of a calm, luminous and constant inner presence , which can be found in every breath.
Discover at Univers Tibet :
- Natural solar stones
- Tibetan ritual candles and incense
- Meditation objects and malas to raise energy
