As a writer in the Regency time period, I’m familiar with Bath and its famed healing springs…
What I didn’t know until recently was that it’s also home to an ancient goddess named Sulis. The goddess of “healing waters”, her shrine was built by the Celts in what was originally known as Aquae Sulis – the town that eventually became Bath. The Romans, upon invading “Britannia”, overtook the site and associated Sulis with their Roman goddess Minerva.
Retaining a more gentle aspect than the traditional Minerva, Sulis was seen as a nourishing, “mother” type goddess (yet also reputed to make good on curses wished by her followers!).
So why talk about a goddess worshiped thousands of years ago? Why bring her up in a monthly column devoted to hauntings and paranormal places? Because according to Doreen Virtue in her book Archangels & Ascended Masters, the spirit of Sulis is alive and well. And she’s available to be called on for those needing assistance with several areas. Specifically noted are: blessings, clairvoyance, eyesight – both physical and spiritual, gardening, water used in ceremonies, and with wishes. (Nothing is said about “curses”, but hopefully anyone making a current wish will do so for the benefit of themselves or those around them, and not to the detriment of others!)
According to Dr. Virtue, Sulis is also known as a Sun Goddess, unusual as this is typically the realm of male deities. Her association with “hot” springs may account for this. Her domain consists of all pools of water that aid with healing, especially natural hot springs.
Dr. Virtue interacted with Sulis near Bath (I’m assuming on a spiritual plane) and the basic message imparted was when you see a rainbow or any prism reflected through water, you are seeing Sulis. Plants are precious to her and she’s especially willing to assist those who call upon her with growing healthy ones, whether agricultural-related or a simple houseplant.
Maybe this is a message I needed. After allowing a couple of ferns to linger way too close to the fire this winter, they have yet to recover. :-|
Until next month… May all your wishes come true and I wish you pages and pages of happy reading! Larissa
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Larissa Lyons considers brownies an official food group and has a penchant for Roaring Rogues and sexy cowboys. Read more at her website.
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