Two recent drawings of mine! I am planning to try and color them digitally~
Apollon the Healer, who knows darkness and knows where to shine your light as a result,
who burns as the sun on its solstice but lies down next to us in the dark, encouraging us to sleep when we feel we don’t deserve to,
whose hands that have dealt deadly blows and strung arrows of sorrow and destruction
hold ours so gently that we forget for a moment every touch that’s ever caused us pain,
who stands up straight and unwavering as we lean against you in our weakness,
who feels no fear or apprehension for the parts of us we try to bury, whose light is kind and healing as it exposes us, showing the truth without shame,
who knows our heartbreak and our anger, and follows us down our twisted and winding paths, knowing that you can always find the exit, no matter how far down you go with us,
I praise you for all these things, you have earned the honor and veneration given to you a thousand times over, your perfection is that which can only be gained through understanding despair,
and for this reason there is no shame to be found in lying down at your feet, nor in staining your glorious mantle with blood or tears,
nor in coming before you in sickness and weariness,
beloved Apollon, healer and comforter, bloody and beautiful God who fastens us back together with the same ease as you destroy,
may I always find room in my heart to praise you, may you never be far from my mind, Lord of the sleepless night and the painful morning and the slow healing,
may I always remember your blessings and your virtues, and continue to give you honor and worship according to your unfathomable worthiness.
A prayer to Apollon in the midst of a mental health crisis (via revivalish)
– Cardamom does not have many properties, but most sources agree that love is its most potent effect.
– Cardamom can be burned, added to sachets, or used in wine and meals to induce love, lust, or fidelity. It’s handy in spells and charms regarding these three aspects, regardless of the method of use.
– Lore suggests chewing some cardamom seeds before talking to them will encourage a potential lover.
– Cardamom was often used in Eastern aphrodisiacs.
– It is also used for: relaxation, clarity, and eloquence.
Medicinal Properties
– Cardamom is antispasmodic. This makes it effective against any types of stomach unease caused by ingestion or IBS. It helps relieve nausea and is useful for dealing with morning sickness.
– It strengthens digestion and kills the bacteria responsible for bad breath.
– It can also help clear congestion from allergies, flu and colds.
First of all, I firmly believe that Hestia wants you to put your health and happiness first. If any of these don’t fit with your life/are things that will make you unhappy, simply don’t do them! For example, not all of us were born into loving families, or have time/money to donate. I just hope this will inspire you to find your own ways to feel more connected to Hestia if you so chose this holiday season ❤
Friends/Family (the loved ones in your life):
Bake together.
Have a potluck/feast where everyone brings what they have and you create a meal together.
Have a harvest feast filled with local goods and produce. Support local businesses and your loved ones at the same time!
Spend a day crafting together.
Gift homemade/handcrafted items instead of store bought.
Do a gift exchange – add limitations/themes that feel good and genuine!
Give gifts to the people you love not because of social obligations but because you were thinking of them!
Day-to-day life when you’re out and about:
Pay for someone else’s coffee.
Find someplace cozy and sit there, enjoying the moment.
Leave bigger tips than usual – especially during the holiday rush.
Hold the door open for somebody.
Buy some flowers and give them to people who look like they could use a smile (yourself included!)
Help people with their groceries/bags (but be safe about it and use common sense).
Practice kindness and patience while driving.
Compliment others.
Day-to-day life at home + what to do on your own:
Go to bed earlier than usual.
Make yourself a cuppa and take the time to savor it.
Make a hearth fire or light a candle.
Bake yourself something yummy.
Take advantage of the seasonal decor and use it to decorate your altar.
Cuddle up under some blankets and enjoy some cheesy, heart-warming movies.
Take up knitting or crocheting.
Tidy up your home/living space.
Turn of all the lights before bed and spend some time in candle light.
Ways to help others (not already listed):
Donate toys or other gift-able items.
Participate in a food drive.
Offer to sponsor a kid for their holiday (small gifts and maybe a bigger one).
Send cards/post cards to seniors or sick children.
Write thank you notes and leave baked goods/sweets for trash collectors, mail carriers, and other people who’s work you often take for granted.
Ask homeless people if they need any food or layers as the weather gets warmer.
Volunteer at a soup kitchen or somewhere similar.
I’ve found that the spirit of this season (thankfulness and caring) makes me feel closer to Her and I enjoy devoting acts to Her, creating Her altar and praying to Her during the cold winter months.
But, most importantly, do whatever makes you feel content, kind, happy, and closer to Her ❤ I’d love to hear your ideas!
Heatherwitch 