St Swithin's Day: Fact or Folklore?

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an image of a lady standing under an umbrella in the countryside
“St. Swithin’s Day - 15 July - will it rain?" - Powered by Dall-E 3.


Yesterday, Monday 15th July was St. Swithin’s Day, and it is a date firmly embedded in weather-related British folklore. According to tradition if it rains on this day, it’ll be wet for the following forty days. But who was St Swithin, and is there any truth to the old saying, "St Swithin's Day if thou dost rain, for forty days it will remain"?

St Swithin was a 9th-century Bishop of Winchester, known for his humble and pious life. Following his death in 862, he requested a simple burial in the churchyard, exposed to the elements. Over a century later, when his remains were to be moved inside the cathedral, it is said that it rained continuously for 40 days, leading to the popular belief that the weather on St Swithin's Day would dictate the pattern for the next 40 days.

The Weather Myth

While the story is charming, there's no scientific evidence to support the St Swithin's Day weather prediction. Our weather is affected by a complex mix of atmospheric conditions, and forecasting the weather for such a long period based on a single day is impossible. That said, the folklore surrounding St Swithin's Day has undoubtedly added a touch of whimsy to the British summer. Some people eagerly watch the skies on 15th July 15th, hoping for sunshine or bracing themselves for rain. It's a light-hearted tradition that allows us to indulge in another British pastime of complaining about the weather.

The Coaching Mindset

St Swithin's Day, with its weather-predicting folklore, offers a surprising parallel to the world of coaching.
  • Focus on the present moment: Just as the St Swithin's Day prediction relies solely on one day's weather; effective coaching is grounded in the present. It's about understanding the client's current situation, their goals, and their challenges now.
  • Challenging assumptions: The idea that one day can dictate the weather for forty days is a classic example of an assumption. Coaches often help clients question their assumptions about themselves, their capabilities, and their circumstances.
  • Adaptability: Weather patterns are constantly changing, and so are our lives. A good coach helps clients develop the flexibility and resilience to adapt to changing circumstances, just as we must adapt to unexpected weather shifts.
  • The power of belief: While the St Swithin's Day prediction is unfounded, belief in it can influence people's actions. Similarly, a coach can help clients harness the power of belief in themselves to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
  • Finding meaning in tradition: St Swithin's Day is a tradition that brings people together. Coaching, in a way, also creates a tradition of personal growth and development. Both offer a sense of belonging and shared experience.
So, while St Swithin might not have the power to control the weather, his day can serve as a reminder for coaches to focus on the present, challenge assumptions, foster adaptability, harness the power of belief, and create meaningful connections with their clients.

Maybe also have a think about what you will you be doing for the next forty days.

So, What Should You Believe?

Ultimately, whether you choose to believe in the St Swithin's Day folklore is up to you. It's a fun and nostalgic tradition that adds a bit of magic to the summer months. However, when it comes to planning your outdoor activities, it's always best to rely on a reliable weather forecast.

Did it rain where I was? Yep, it sure did!


If you are interested in learning more about how I can help you, please drop me a message on LinkedIn, or get in touch to find out more.
Location: Kirkton of Maryculter, Aberdeen AB12, UK

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