Willows East: Sigils, Starlight, and Scrolls

Sacred Pause: Embracing Rest, Healing, Renewal


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Welp. I woke up this morning with a severe sore throat and other head-cold symptoms. There was so much I wanted to do today! I had planned a coffee outing in Stowe with one of my work friends. I was supposed to get my kiddo, Ellie, on my way home so that we could get some time together. Instead, I’m curled up with an iced coffee (it feels so good on my throat) and a heated blanket. I’m sad to be missing out on some quality friend and family time but am trying to embrace this time of rest.

As such, today’s Sacred Sunday is about making the most out of the quiet times, to focus on planning and creating while resting my body.

In Celtic spirituality, there’s a deep reverence for cycles—times of action balanced by times of rest. Each evening, as night falls, we’re reminded of the sacred pause, an opportunity to retreat and reconnect with our inner self. This is a time to embrace the quiet, letting stillness guide us to renewal and deeper insights. In the same way that the land lies dormant in winter, we, too, need these restful moments to recharge our spirit.

If your rest time requires some extra healing energy, here are some helpful Goddesses to call on for healing:For healing, Brigid is a wonderful goddess to call upon. She’s deeply connected to physical and spiritual healing, as well as nurturing and protective energy. You might light a candle for her and ask for her warmth and guidance to soothe your body and bring you strength.You could also consider Airmid, a Celtic goddess specifically associated with herbal healing and the restoration of health. Airmid is known for her knowledge of plants and their medicinal properties. If you have herbal teas or remedies, you might dedicate them to her as you care for yourself.

Practice

As you prepare for a time of rest, it may help to create a small ritual to signify this pause. You can place a hand on your heart, take a few deep breaths, and simply give yourself permission to rest. Imagine the land resting beneath you, and feel yourself in harmony with this natural rhythm. Let this moment remind you that rest is a powerful part of growth.

Journal Affirmation

“I honor the wisdom in stillness. In the quiet, I find clarity, peace, and renewal. I am held by the rhythm of rest and trust in the unfolding of all things.”

Tarot Reading

The Ten of Swords symbolizes the need to release what no longer serves us. It often feels like an ending, but in this context, it’s an invitation to let go of the mental and emotional burdens that keep us from fully resting. The Nine of Pentacles, on the other hand, offers a vision of peace, self-care, and abundance. It encourages us to savor the rewards of stepping back and investing in our well-being. Rest isn’t just about doing nothing—it’s about creating a space where we can feel secure, nurtured, and connected to the simple joys of life.

This card reminds us that renewal comes from cultivating an environment of comfort, whether it’s through nature, a cozy space, or indulging in quiet, restorative activities.

Journal Prompts

* What burdens or responsibilities am I holding onto that I need to release?

* How can I create a nurturing environment that supports my physical and emotional rest?

* What small joys can I bring into my life to make rest feel more intentional and fulfilling?



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Willows East: Sigils, Starlight, and ScrollsBy Gretchen