Hel

End of a Cycle

Release what no longer serves you

Prepare for transformation

Hel is an enigmatic Norse underworld queen and goddess of death. Her striking appearance – half-light and half-dark – represents the spiritual netherworld over which she rules. It’s a mysterious, healing realm where those who’ve died from disease or old age receive spiritual renewal. Hel is a soul-midwife who cares especially for women and babies who die in childbirth. Her powers have been universally feared by patriarchy: the Norse gods call her monstrous, the medieval Christian church named their “hell” after her. This powerful goddess brings guidance for inevitable change, transitions and endings. Her symbols are ravens, black crystals and the rune symbol Hagalaz. who cares especially for women and babies who die in childbirth. Her powers have been universally feared by patriarchy: the Norse gods call her monstrous, the medieval Christian church named their “hell” after her. This powerful goddess brings guidance for inevitable change, transitions and endings. Her symbols are ravens, black crystals and the rune symbol Hagalaz.

The appearance of Hel signifies that an experience has come to completion. Don’t worry, Hel doesn’t bring portents of physical death. She represents the two constants in life: the dying of the old and rebirth of the new.

Hel is a skilled spiritual midwife, guiding you through a major transition. A part of your life is definitely coming to a close. And yet, endings herald physical and spiritual renewal. Don’t be afraid – you’re preparing for transformation.

You may go through a process of shedding skins to purge old identities, patterns and roles. Perhaps your last child is about to leave home. Maybe you’re approaching retirement from a job. A significant relationship could have ended, or you might be about to get married or to become a parent.

If you’re very reluctant to embrace important change, it can make the transition prolonged and difficult. Hel understands that letting go of what “was” can be hard. Our tendency can be to cling to the familiar and to the past. But the next chapter of your life is arriving, and it promises fresh, exciting experiences. Be open to what’s coming next

Additional meanings:

View rejection as a sign something better is coming

Say “no” to this request

let go of a harmful habit or pattern

Work as a soul-midwife or end-of-life nurse

Invocation

I breathe deeply as one door closes, and another opens.