An Cailleach – The Cauldron Goddess

Winter Solstice Wisdom & Oracle Reading!

As we come into a New Moon on Dec 19th and the Winter Solstice on December 21st, we have arrived to the tender threshold of an end and the beginning of both the lunar and solar cycle.

We may be arriving bone-tired, processing grief and old wounds, but we have arrived. Perhaps we’re feeling reflective, inspired, hopeful, optimistic or perhaps a bit anxious or uncertain. Or all of this and more. We are held in the dark womb of rebirth now, as we await the return of the light of Solstice and its slow increase over the months to come.

Even if the months to come are colder, here in the northern hemisphere, the light’s return offers us new clarity, hope and healing to pave the way for new adventures and manifestations that begin in the spring.

Winter may seem ‘barren’, yet I don’t believe this is true. This dark womb season is teeming with potential- energy in waiting. Possibilities. Dreams. Old stories being composted into new adventures. An old self evolving into a new one. Some dreams will be ripe for manifesting this year, and others not quite yet. There is new life incubating beneath the surface- we just can’t see it. There is still much mystery, asking us to trust in the invisible, the life fruiting behind the scenes.

The darkness is what makes the light known and seen. When we struggle, it becomes most clear what really matters, what holds us up through hard times, and what is worth building upon.

The light represents our inner spark- that which holds meaning, what keeps us going through the dark months ahead. This often comes in the form of inspiration, our faith, and anything which warms our heart- simple creature comforts, to spending time with loved ones, pets, nature or a dream of a more equitable society.

The quiet and inward energy of the Winter season clarifies things for us- it brings into focus what warms us when we’re cold, what lights us up when we’re down, and what rises up into focus when we’re less distracted. If we actually let ourselves slow down enough to notice, we glean wisdom and self-knowledge necessary to build more fulfilling lives and set more authentic goals.

Winter Solstice initiates Capricorn season. This ambitious and pragmatic earth sign holds much wisdom for us to glean beyond its what our capitalist society often points out about it- it’s much more than money and business. Capricorn is the wise elder archetype. They knows what holds meaning, how to care for our elders- the elder within and elders in our lives. They understand the importance of being a good ancestor and creating a legacy- in whatever form that takes. They teach us how to pull up our spiritual strength from within and not only survive but thrive during the winter seasons of our lives. Capricorn shows us the importance of history and how to patiently weave a tapestry of experience that serves not only us but those who come after.

Capricorn season also teaches us that our goals must align with who we truly are, rather than who we think we should be. A healthy dose of realism is helpful during this season, as we may need to take baby steps towards our dreams, and tend the foundations before setting forth on a high energy-consuming path. Our goals for the next few weeks may need to involve more self-care, gentleness, slowness and presence than we see in our visions of the future. The reality is often a bit slower than our vision would like.

With each passing day this season as we head towards Imbolc in early February, we get a bit more light, a bit more clarity on the path we are on and where we’d like to go. Despite cultural pressures to begin brand new regimens and attain rigid goals starting in January, we don’t need to rush or have it all figured out yet. This is not the way of nature.

Nature asks us to take our time digesting, reflecting, grounding into the present moment. New visions will dawn on us. New desires will stir. A pathway forward will become clear. But this must happen on its own. Nature trusts this process and asks that we do too. We will sprout and grow again, in new ways and in perfectly orchestrated divine natural timing.

Some simple ways of honoring this time are:

Deciding to get a bit more rest- go to bed early or sleep in or just sit down and relax intentionally without distraction in your day
Meditate
Go for a walk in nature
Listen to calming music
Journaling or reflection
Light a candle and say a prayer for yourself, others, and welcome the Sun and the light’s rebirth
Intuitive movement, drawing or art
Yoga or breathwork
Oracle card/Tarot reading

An Cailleach & Oracle Reading:

The Celtic Goddess An Cailleach is the ancient giantess ruling over the cold and dark season. Her name means ‘Veiled one’ emphasizing the mysterious aspect of the season. An Cailleach is the One Who Shapes the Land, tends animals, creates winter storms and bestows sovereignty on Kings. She is mysterious, powerful, wise and commands respect. She teaches us to open to the mystery, to access our inner strength, respect the land’s wisdom and open to new dimensions within and without.

For the Winter Solstice Oracle Reading, I always favor this deck by Jane Brideson- Wisdom of the Cailleach. The imagery is so beautiful and powerful. May you be guided by its wisdom as well as your own as you navigate this magickal season!

Now, take 3 deep relaxing breaths. Once you’re calm take a look at the cards below and ask ‘what do I need to know for this Solstice Season?’ And choose a card. Scroll down for the description. Words in italics are by me and the rest are by the author.

Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle by Jane Brideson

Remember that number and scroll down to find it’s meaning!

Change- Transformation, Rebirth, Restoration

Change, rebirth, evolution. Chance, coincidence, a surprise or unexpected event. An opportunity to begin afresh. A realization or insight that reshapes your life.

Are you ready for a shift? Change is in the air. Be open and flexible. This year, 2026, is also a Wheel of Fortune year, emphasizing change. If things have been heavy, things will now lighten up. If things have felt slow, they may speed up. If you’ve been struggling, you’ll soon find ease. This is a great time to experiment, try something new, even something very small, like visiting a new neighborhood, town or taking a new class or reading about a subject that interests you. Be open to new ideas, possibilities and allow yourself to explore new territory. The hare is intuitive, instinctive, fertile and connected to the moon. Life moves in cycles- it’s time to let go of the past. Rebirth is imminent. Let your intuition lead the way and leap into the unknown!

2. First Shoots- Birth, beginnings, growth.

An awakening to new possibilities, a new start. Birth and growth of new ideas. An opportunity to learn new skills or put new ideas into practice. Time to emerge and take the first step.

This time is calling you trust what you feel stirring and emerging deep within. There is new life waiting for the right moment to burst through and show themselves in the light! This card holds a bit more of an Imbolc or even Spring energy to it, so for you, there is likely to be an early sense of renewal and growth this season. Something you’ve been working on behind the scenes may begin to show promise. You may feel new ideas stirring and calling to be expressed in a vision board, or plan for the near future. You may notice your energy increasing as the season goes on and new opportunities begin to show up. If you have creative aspirations or something you’ve been wanting to try or start working on, give it a go! This is a time to begin those baby steps forward, and trust the energy for it will be there.

3. Rest- Recuperation, patience, retirement.

Rest and refreshment. Withdraw from a situation, patience and restraint is needed so reserve your judgement. Resignation or retirement from work. A time to recover health and stability.

This card holds the traditional wisdom of wintertime, as it calls for you to slow down and allow some stillness, rest and recuperation. You’ve been working hard, perhaps struggling, fighting or pushing out too much energy, and now you can put down your sword, your responsibilities, your load, and just rest. What comforts you? Where can you make some space in your schedule to do less? Do you have supportive relaxation and sleep rituals that help you slow down and get a good night’s rest? This is the time to nourish your body, mind and soul by letting go and relaxing in the Great Mother’s dark womb to be renewed. Enjoy some alone time, and curl up in comfort. Take time off work for a solo retreat if needed. You’ll feel refreshed and ready for new activities once you’ve recuperated. Enjoy!

4. Moon- Intuition, dreams, illusion

Imagination, inner vision, creativity. Recognition of your body’s cycle and energy levels. Heightened awareness, insight and understanding. A time to use your intuition and follow your dreams.

There is magick in the air here! What a wonderful time to start tapping into your intuition more and taking more time to journal your insights! Do you record your nighttime dreams? This may be a good idea in order to gain wisdom that will help you navigate this season. Do you have any creative hobbies that nourish your soul and express your spirit? How often do you gaze out at the moon? Take some time to be outside this season and let the moonlight bathe you in each of her phases. Notice how each phase affects your mood and your energy levels. We are cyclical beings and flow with the tides. Understanding this flow allows us to accept change and flow with it rather than holding rigid to unnatural structures or ideals. Practice tapping into your cyclical, intuitive wisdom as it arises rather than logic or doing things out of habit and notice what changes.

5 . Sovereignty

I am

Mighty stag, doe in fawn.

fierce guardian of the herd.

I am

your pathway to wild places, your solace, grief and savage spirit.

My worn hands and soothing song

shall lead you over sacred hills, through thickets of uncoiling ferns

By twisted track to find hearts’ ease

Deep in the valley of my embrace.

The Cailleach is a sovereignty goddess which means she is essentially the spirit of the land itself. In Celtic traditions it was necessary for prospective kings to be approved of. In a ritual- often with a female representative of the sovereignty goddess, through marriage or sexual union she bestowed him with kingship. Respect for the land (and feminine energy) was necessary for a king to be worthy of his throne. Sovereignty can also speak to owning your own self and space sacred, and respecting your needs and boundaries. How can you bring sovereignty into your life now? Do you feel connected to the land you walk on? How is the relationship between you and the land? Your relationship with yourself? Love, respect and protection are energies to explore here. You may wish to spend more time outdoors, connecting with nature, and/or respect your own needs and boundaries more.

6. Possibilities- Trust, hope, potential

Hopes, dreams and plans for the future. Trust that all will be well in this moment. An opportunity to explore your potential. Time of optimism and freedom.

How often do you gaze up at the sky in awe? This card helps us connect to our inner child and the part of us that still wants to wish upon a star. Keeping a sense of awe and wonder are key as we get older and think we have things figured out. There is always more to learn, and the great mystery never ceases to surprise us, if we are open and curious. What kinds of possibilities do you see for yourself in the future? Can you expand them a little more? What if the future is even brighter than you imagined? Hold a positive vision for yourself and your future. There is so much shifting in the world right now that things that weren’t possible before could be now. Dream, vision, stargaze and believe in the beauty you see and wish to create.

Did your card resonate? I hope it did. May this Winter Solstice season bring you so many gifts of rest, warmth, hope and renewal and we rebirth the light and open to new paths forward in 2026!

Blessings,

Serena

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Winter Solstice Wisdom + Oracle Reading!

“The beauty of the Cailleach reflected the beauty of winter. The lines on her face all told stories. She did not have the wrinkle-free smoothness of a young girl, but rather the wisdom of age and experience. Her eyes spoke of death, wonder and determination, all of which were found in the harsh snows which blanketed the land and reminded people of their own mortality. “

–From the book ‘Visions of the Cailleach’ by Sorita d’este & David Rankine

We have nearly arrived to the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year. As the darkness cloaks us in its deep mystery, and the land here in the northern hemisphere tucks itself in for a long nap, we too feel called to rest and allow the wisdom that can only be found in silence and stillness to reveal itself.

The Wheel of the Year and the seasons of nature all correspond to aspects of ourselves, and stages of life. Here, at the Winter Solstice, we are at the Elder stage.

No matter what our age, we all have an inner Crone, Elder or Wise One within us. This part of us may be as ancient as time, our wise soul that has lived through many lifetimes. It is the part of us that has learned to love and let go, to make mistakes and grow, and gather wisdom from experience. As we nurture our inner Elder, we find valuable gems of wisdom to take with us beyond this lifetime, and share with others while we’re here.

The Winter Solstice invites us to embrace the darkness- the Great Mystery, the dark womb of potential, the void from which all dreams are born. This is a potent season for rest and dreaming.

Melatonin- also known as ‘the hormone of darkness’ is released by the pineal gland in response to the sky’s natural darkening. This helps us sleep and regulate our wake-sleep cycles. This is nature’s way of saying ‘It’s time to rest, time to dream, time to recharge’.

Unfortunately, due to modern schedules and light sources, especially the blue light from our screens, melatonin production is inhibited, making it harder for us to get the refueling sleep and dreamtime we need. Lowering the light in our homes, and putting away screens after dark or before bed are ways we can allow our natural melatonin production to form and get more satisfying sleep. I enjoy using candles, crystal lamps, dim lighting and try to limit time on my phone during the evenings of these darker months.

The land is also taking its time to rest now, a necessary dormancy period that is a vital part of the fertility cycle. Dormancy gives bulbs and seeds the energy they will need to sprout in the warmer months. Without a dormancy period, many plants will not sprout. Some plants require more dormancy than others, anywhere from weeks, up to many years before being able to germinate.

Like seeds, us humans require quiet, non-active periods of rest, especially during this time of year. Letting the busy-ness and stress of our culture’s version of the holiday season burn us out can prevent the germination of new life in spring. If possible, take some time this winter to slow down, simplify and try an earlier bedtime. Embrace stillness, silence, reflection and receptivity. Create fertile soil for your dreams to germinate. Your body, spirit and psyche will thank you!

Winter Solstice is also a celebration of the return of the light. While this increase in light is often not very noticeable until Imbolc season in early February, we can open our minds and hearts to hope and know that new life is on its way! We however must be patient and let new energies incubate and reveal themselves in their proper timing. Surrender and faith are qualities we are invited to cultivate during this time.

As we slow down and allow ourselves to enter a receptive state, we can begin to form new visions for the coming year. Winter is a great time to tend our inner soil, our inner foundations and strengthen our roots and bones.

While January begins the calendar new year, it is not necessarily the best time to jump into starting a whole new paradigm, or expect immediate results on anything. Radical diets and big changes often fade out by February because of the energy-conserving, slow-moving nature of this time. Changes can be made, but with patience and small, realistic steps forward. It is more conducive to integration and inner alignment- a time to open to possibilities and let our intuition and inner wisdom guide us forward.

The Cailleach

It is at this time of year that I often feel the wise, strong and powerful presence of the Cailleach- the ancient, giant, primordial Old Woman that predates the gods, venerated in Ireland, Scotland, Isle of Man and all over Britain. She has roots in Spain and beyond as well. Her presence expresses itself through the harsh cold of the season, creating storms, snow and darkness. She also is known as a shaper of the land, creating hills, stones, cairns and lakes.

Through Her connection to the land, the Cailleach is also a goddess of Sovereignty, able to grant kingship. She also rules over herds of deer and tends the animals. Her myths and stories can be traced as far back as two thousand years ago. She is truly an ancient, wise presence to behold, and Her energy serves to awaken our own inner strength, sovereignty, power and ability to move through challenges.

Some see the Cailleach as the dark mirror of Brighid- the goddess of fertility, spring, the hearth and the light, who is celebrated at Imbolc. Their relationship is a dance between the forces of life and death, or light and darkness, which are energies that seek balance within ourselves.

My favourite depictions of the Cailleach and Crone imagery lie in the Wisdom of the Cailleach oracle by Jane Brideson. I love seeing powerful, inspiring imagery of women as elders- a lacking depiction in our culture. This beautiful deck is my go-to every Winter to tap into the powerful energies the Cailleach holds.

Curious to see what the Cailleach and your Solstice season has in store for you?

Take a moment to ground and centre yourself. Take 3 mindful, deep breaths. Then, when you’re ready, gaze at the cards below and ask ‘What do I need to know for this Winter Solstice Season?’ Then, choose your card…

From Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle by Jane Brideson

Remember that number! Now scroll down for your message. Messages from the deck creator, Jane Brideson, and then my own words in italics.

Moon– Intuition, Dreams, Illusion

Imagination, inner vision, creativity.
Recognition of your body’s cycle and energy levels.
Heightened awareness, insight, and understanding.
A time to use your intuition and follow your dreams.

The moon offers us the wisdom of cycles and flow. We don’t have to remain the same forever, or follow the same routine rigidly. We can change, shapeshift and move as we feel called to. It’s ok to be moody, and to follow your feelings. It’s ok to change your mind or grow out of something. Give yourself permission to be multi-faceted, to go through phases, to be a changeable human being. Lunar consciousness is counter-cultural, but oh so needed to bring us into balance. What phase are you in right now? What do you feel called to explore or express? Where can you invite more flow or wildness into your life? What are your dreams showing you? This can be a great time to track the moon cycle and notice how its energies interplay with your own.

2. Possibilities- Trust, Hope, Potential

Hopes, dreams and plans for the future.
Trust that all will be well in this moment.
An opportunity to explore your potential.
Time of optimism and freedom.

Do you allow yourself to dream big? Remember the wonder and awe you felt as a child? Take some time to sky-gaze and envision possibilities for yourself in the future. Sometimes we get caught up in old stories from the past and believe in a more limited future than is possible for us. We also forget to look up at the night sky and remember just how big the universe is, and how much we have yet to explore and discover. Perhaps you are feeling called to expand your world a bit with travel, a new course of study, an inspiring experience or trying something new. This card encourages you to go for it! Even a small change in activity can create new neural pathways in our brain, transforming the way we see the world and keep us young. What do you feel curious about? What thoughts create a feeling of expansion and liberation in your heart and soul? It’s time to open up to more. Believe in your potential!

3. Old Woman

I am

gnarled hands that knot the past into the present.

Preserving myths, keeping ancestors alive.

I am

Your heritage, your hard lessons, the kindnesses, old conflicts, the good blood and the bad.

My crooked fingers unravel knots, free tethered thoughts, release the ties that bind.

I am

the parting and the letting go, which heals your broken thread.

What experiences, challenges and triumphs have etched themselves upon your soul in this life? Our life brings us love, loss and so much more, changing us deeply and making us wiser. This is a time to reflect, to gather all the yarn and weavings of your life, all your key experiences and appreciate all that brought you here- the good and the bad, as they have strengthened you. You are sacred, blessed and a deeply important contributor to this world, with so much wisdom to share. Are there aspects of your past or your ancestral inheritance that can be preserved for future generations? Are there aspects of your past that are weighing you down and can be let go of? As you continue to weave the tapestry of your life, what beauty, inspiration or wisdom would you like to keep, pass down or share with others?

4. Wise Woman

I am

softening skin creased by a million smiles.

furrowed brow planted with seeds of hope, slow uncurling of inner vision.

I am

The arrow that flies to the heart, spiral path that snakes across the land, the whitethorn by a sacred well.

I whisper charms as breathing slows in rest, then tip-toe to your side. Our arms entwined, our bodies light, we dance into the Many Coloured Land.

The darkness is what shows us the light. As we age, we feel more gratitude for the simple things, the small moments that make up daily life. We realise just how precious life is. What moments bring you that deep joy and gratitude for life itself? What small acts in your daily life can become moments of mindfulness or gentle ritual? If you have been feeling heavy with the complexity of human existence, come back to simplicity. Make a list of 5 things in everyday life that touch you deeply or that you feel grateful for, such as the smell of coffee, the sound of the wind in the trees, or seeing a loved one smile. Open to the sacredness found in each and every aspect of your everyday life. Also, take note of your nightly dreams and any wisdom or inspiration that can be gleaned from them.

5. Ancestors- Origins, Forgiveness, The Past

Your roots, your ancestors, your heritage.
Lessons learned, time to move on.
Understanding and forgiving your former self.
Time to leave behind your past, old patterns and beliefs.

Our ancestral inheritance comes with many gifts as well as challenges. Oftentimes, we unconsciously carry beliefs that were instilled in us at such a young age that we don’t think much of them operating in the background of our life- through our self-talk, the decisions we make, the obligations and fears we carry. Is there something you’ve been carrying, perhaps not only you, but your family has carried for generations- that is holding you back from being your whole self? Or from manifesting your dreams? Traumas can repeat themselves in our life until we heal. Is there a pattern from your past keep that keeps repeating itself? Seek out support and guidance if need be to help you untangle any roots that are not conducive to your growth. If you’ve already been doing this work, acknowledge how far you’ve come. Also, tap into the many gifts that you’ve inherited. Take the good and leave the bad behind.

6. Tribe- Community, Celebration, Support

Family, chosen family or community.
The mutual support, comfort and help of friends.
Undertaking responsibility and assisting others.
Time to celebrate and share with others.

Who’s in your circle? It’s not the size of it that matters, but the quality. When we vibrate at our own authentic frequency, we attract others who align with it. You may be in a transition in your community circles, where some friends or groups are falling away, or no longer in your best interest. Perhaps you’re experiencing a dry spell or have been a hermit for a long time. As you come closer to your authentic self, you will start attracting people who resonate with you that you can have a more supportive and nourishing connection with. This is a great time to nurture your aligned connections by offering support or reaching out, as well as taking the time time to honor where you’re at and envision what type of circles you wish to be part of in the future. Or perhaps, you feel called to start your own community?

7. Sun-Joy, Energy, Prosperity

Happiness, warmth, and good health.
Good luck, success, a positive outcome.
A time to enjoy sunlit days, a holiday.
Time for pleasure, fun and play!

It’s too easy to get bogged down in the seriousness and heaviness of life these days. We cannot bring our dreams into the world or help others unless we allow joy and light in! Thankfully, this card is an indication that your own energy, vitality and strength are increasing and will flourish. Keep up the positive things you are doing for yourself and others. Nourish joy in your life. Surround yourself with candles, invigorating colors, music and imagery that keeps your heart light and inspired. Get creative, nurture your passion or let your inner child out to play! The world needs this energy more than ever. Allow it to exist in you!

8. Well- Healing, Nurturing, Self-care.

Health, physical and emotional tranquility.
Nurturing self or others.
Connection to nature, ritual, meditation.
Take time out for refreshment, reflection and healing.

Wells are sacred sites for healing and prayers to healing spirits. The well calls you now to draw your healing energies towards yourself. Perhaps you’ve been at the beck and call of others for too long or come through a period of intensity or hard work. It is time to regroup, gather your energies, process and nurture yourself. This could be a great time for a retreat- whether through travel or simply by giving yourself some time out at home to replenish. Your soul is calling you for some attention. Reflect on your deepest needs, desires and wishes. Journal, meditate or take a walk in nature to reconnect to your inner self. What is your body telling you it needs at this time? What does your heart long for? What brings your mind some peace? What does your spirit crave? Allow yourself to receive the healing energies the earth is offering you.

I hope your card resonated!

If you’d like to delve deeper into your own inner wisdom, the Cailleach and the magic of Winter Solstice, I’d love for you to join me online on Friday, Dec 20th @7pm EST for Winter Solstice Circle- Honoring Our Inner Wisdom. We keep it small, cozy and intimate for ease of sharing. All genders, paths and experience levels welcome. I’d love to see you there!

Winter Solstice Blessings to you,

Serena

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Winter Solstice Wisdom + Oracle Reading!

Winter Solstice is a point of peak darkness. The longest night whispers to us to draw deep within, to go quiet so we can hear the call of our soul song.

The hushed blanket of night reminds us that in the dark there is much we cannot see or understand with our conscious mind- But we can feel, sense and ‘know’ what we need to, by tapping into our wise instincts and intuition.

Seeing in the dark requires different faculties than in the daylight. Instead of relying on surface appearances, logic and analysis, we must awaken to the wisdom of our body, heart and intuition to help us navigate the moment. We must honour and integrate our inner needs into our decisions about the future.

With Mercury retrograde, the end of a challenging year and Pluto nearing its end of a 15-year cycle in Capricorn, we are in a place of deep transition and reflection over these next few weeks. We are closing a chapter in preparation for a new cycle.

The past may now rear its head in many ways, reminding us of lessons we’ve already learned, things we’ve accomplished, what worked and what didn’t. Unfinished business may come up to be tended and released. Some things may naturally dissove or end, clearing space for a new chapter. The events of this time may serve to remind us of who we really are and how we’ve changed over time.

Acceptance is a word that keeps coming to my mind. This is a season for accepting the choices we’ve made, learning from the mistakes and painful experiences. We are urged to take responsibility for our lives and create the one we want to live, one small step at a time.

We’re in Crone/Elder season, and the Wise Old Ones remind us to be patient with ourselves as we process all of this. Take it slow, no need to rush, they say. Your healing and renewal are a necessary step towards growth. Sometimes we need to stop moving and simply be still or even take a detour to the past in order to move forward again.

Crones from the Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle by Jane Brideson

The Old Ones may gaze sternly into our eyes, reminding us of our potential and urge us to stop habits that are holding us back- whether it’s letting negative self-talk, fears, old trauma or boundary issues control us.

They may gaze at us with lightheartedness and childlike joy, reminding us of the simple pleasures we may take for granted in our busy lives.

The Old Ones see deeply into our soul- our pain, longings, fears and insecurities. They take our hand in theirs and remind us that we are never alone. We are loved, and we too are Wise Old Ones in the making.

They ask us: How is this moment helping you to become wiser? What has this past year taught you?

If you wish for some inspiration/support to help you integrate the year’s lessons, read on for some oracle guidance…

Winter Solstice Oracle Reading:

In the spirit of the Old Ones, and Wise Crone energy, I’d like to offer you a reading from the ‘Wisdom of the Cailleach’ Oracle by Jane Brideson.

The Cailleach, also known as An Cailleach, An Cailleach Beara or Beira, is the Irish and Scottish Hag of Winter and Old Woman who shapes the land. She is responsible for storms and nasty weather, making mountains and preventing thaw. Her name means ‘veiled one’. She is associated with the cold, barren months of the year, while the goddess Brigid or Brìghde, is associated with the fertile, warm months.

Cailleach’s energy is strong this time of year, so let’s take heed of her wisdom.

Choose one card as your message of inspiration for this season…

You may wish to take a moment to ground and centre yourself first and ask “What do I need to embrace this Solstice?” Then Choose.

Once you’ve chosen a card, remember its number and then see below for the description! Descriptions in italic are from the author, Jane Brideson, followed by my own words.

Fire Pit: Passion-Sacrifice-Creativity

Passion, anger or strong emotions
A sacrifice or an opportunity to release the past
The spark of creativity, increase in enthusiasm and vigour.
A time of power and intensity

Imagine you are sitting outside at a sacred fire pit on a cold winter’s night. As the flames dance and sparks fly, what do you feel? What ignites your own sacred flames within? The fire calls us to be brave, courageous, authentic. There’s no more denying how you really feel, or who you really are. It’s time to express yourself and channel your energy into productive, yet authentic actions. Time to do things that feed your passions and your physical energy. Feel yourself warming up from the inside out, your inner flame burning away false pretense and old selves. It is time to rise, to transform, to create anew!

2. Possibilities: Trust-Hope-Potential

Hopes, dreams and plans for the future.
Trust that all will be well in this moment.
An opportunity to explore your potential.
Time of optimism and freedom.

Imagine yourself bundled up nice and warm, standing in a peaceful forest under a starry winter sky. Gaze up at the beautiful vastness above you and allow yourself to feel the wonder and awe of a child. This is a big, wild universe, and sometimes we forget how much we have yet to experience and explore! Ask yourself ‘what if-?’ and let your imagination wander. It is easy to get stuck in limited thinking patterns as we grow older .This card asks you to open up to more. Let the perceived limitations fall for a moment and seek new possibilities for growth and expansion! What does your curious self wish to explore? Where can you expand your view of the world?

3. Ancestors: Origins-Forgiveness-The Past

Your roots, your ancestors, your heritage.
Lessons learned, time to move on.
Understanding and forgiving your former self.
Time to leave behind your past, old patterns and beliefs.

You come from a long lineage, which has brought you here today. What sings in the memory held in your blood and bones? We carry both trauma and gifts from our ancestors. Sometimes it can feel like a heavy weight, as we carry the past into the present. What inherited patterns are not serving you in this lifetime? What is it time to transmute and heal? What gifts have you been given that are asking to be expressed more in your life? Perhaps a little journey into the past is called for in order to move into your bright future. You hold the power to change the story and make a brighter path forward for your descendants and the generations to come. What legacy do you wish to leave behind? Your ancestors surround you in love and support you now on your path.

4. Harvest Hag

I am rowan berries on a thread, fleet footed hare beneath the moon, the keen-eyed, reaping blade.

I am the seed, sickle and the sheaf, ebb and flow of land and sun, life’s waxing and decrease.

I am your call to roam across the land, to fill your arms with grain and fruit, to reap your golden harvest, laughter, love and tears.

Gaze into the wise eyes of the Harvest Hag and be reminded of your own resourcefulness and abundance. You hold all that you need to create the life you desire. The sickle represents discernment and respect for that which you are reaping. Only take what is needed, and leave the rest to flourish on the Earth Mother’s body. Life is cyclical, and there are times to reap and times to sow. What abundance exists in your life? What bounty do you hold but have not yet put to use? What latent talents or abilities can you cultivate to help you move forward? Like the hare, you are fertile and can create abundance wherever you put your energy. Harvest your gifts and weave new magic!

5. Tribe: Community-Celebration-Support

Family, chosen family or community
The mutual support, comfort and help of friends
Undertaking responsibility and assisting others.
Time to celebrate and share with others.

You are not alone in how you are feeling. There are others who share your struggles and longings, who resonate with your energy, and await you in their circle. It may be time to let go of certain beliefs about yourself that hold you back from connecting with others. Perhaps you are afraid of an old pattern repeating or a wound re-opening. Perhaps you don’t feel you have anything to offer. Put these ideas to rest and remember your worthiness. It is safe to take the first step in re-connecting with your soul family. Join a class, a community event, or reach out to a friend for a phone call or cup of coffee. Join an online community if there is nothing local. Find others who share your values. We are stronger together!

6. Sun: Joy-Energy-Prosperity

Happiness, warmth and good health.
Good luck, success, a positive outcome
A time to enjoy sunlit days, a holiday.
Time for pleasure, fun and play.

Has life gotten to heavy or serious lately? While there will always be some heaviness in life, it doesn’t mean you need to carry it all the time. This card wants you to lighten up and create space for more light-heartedness and joy! If the lack of sunlight is affecting your mood, try using a full-spectrum lightbulb or visiting an indoor garden. Light candles, string up some extra holiday lights or add some fresh colours into your home. Perhaps it’s time for a sunny getaway or some more leisure time to do what nourishes you. Pleasure is our birthright and a certain amount is necessary in order to help you reach your long-term or serious goals. Time to release the burdens you no longer need to carry and make space for fun, lightness and laughter! Your body, heart and mind will thank you.

7. Mound: Solitude-Withdrawl-Inner Focus

Need for solitude and privacy
Meditation, an inner journey.
Withdrawl into your inner world.
Time for contemplation and assessment.

The sacred journey inward beckons. You have given your energy to the outside world plenty, and now it’s time to focus on your inner self and your spiritual path. There are times in life where we cannot go forward or grow until we stop and take the time to do our own healing. Most spiritual practices involve a time of withdrawl or solitude away from the bustle of the outside world in order to hear the inner voice and come to a greater self-understanding. It is in these journeys that we can process our past, accept our present and contemplate the future, gaining a fresh perspective on life itself. The wise know when to turn inward to find the satisfaction they may have been seeking outside themselves. Create a sanctuary for your soul, protect your boundaries and delve into the mysteries of your inner world.

May you be held in the loving embrace of the Elders and Wise Ones this Solstice.

May you find comfort, hope and peace as the longest night births the light again.

May your inner wisdom grow!

Serena