Solstice

I do love a good podcast and one of my favourites is Magick & Alchemy with Kate Belew and Kristen Lisenby. Kate Belew also goes by the handle of The Word Witch and recently published an inspiring book which invites you to bring ritual in to your daily writing practice. In a recent news letter, there was a writing prompt. I have never actually completed one of the prompts before but, as it was very early in the morning and the summer solstice energy seems to take my sleep, I had a go. Below is my prompted poem and some gorgeous photos I took which on my walk on 18th June, 2026, here in Stalybridge.

The word Solstice actually comes from the words Sun and 'To Stand Still'. Interestingly, I didn't know this before I wrote the poem. When I thought about it more, I wondered about the two solstice points in the year being 'stand points' where you can reflect and think about where you have been and where you want to go. A reset as the energy changes for the next six months. I feel like I often invite you to come and be still. We don't often have permission to rest so please take it if you need it. It is yours.

The Still Heart

Sun that warms and soothes, past it’s

Peak, seek to bring in the gloaming so we can

Pause. Sit. Still. Here. Breeeeaaathee ouuuutttt.

Celebration rises in the peace through your feet

Understanding how we connect Earth and

Skies rise above. Lift your heart. We have

Waited. Here. Still. Sit. Pause.