05/03/2026
Often when we're ill, or suffering a loss of soul through a crisis or depression, the ‘call’ from deep within invites us not to try to ‘fix the problem’ but instead asks us to let go, retreat to our quiet cave, or nest and receive the incubating gift of patient warmth.
Ancient Greek incubation caves where the sick reclined, let go and waited, were seen as places of access to the nurturing depths of soul where warming energy and secretive inner work abound.
To incubate, then, is to surrender to the therapeutic wisdom of Nature that resides deep within our bodies and souls.
It is a phase of ’suspended animation’, when life is gently held, slowed and cocooned in sleep, rest and dreams that may cast light on the nature of the gifts that are embedded in our wounds.
Sacred incubation is this devotional decision to be fully present in our woundedness, instead of struggling to be free.
💌 Maureen B. Roberts, PhD www.psychiatrywithsoul.com
🎨 Sarah Treanor
