Why a Hedgehog?
Yes, it starts with an “H.” And we won’t lie—that small bit of alliteration brought a smile. But that’s not why we chose it.
We chose the hedgehog because it symbolizes something much deeper: quiet strength, self-protection, and the instinct to curl inward when the world feels unsafe. Hedgehogs don’t fight for attention. They set boundaries. They know when to pause, when to soften, and when to reemerge.
For those carrying the weight of identity loss, truth discovery, and ancestral disconnection, the hedgehog feels familiar. Its presence is a reminder: reclamation doesn’t have to be loud or fast. It can be slow, steady, and deeply personal.
The hedgehog reflects our core values—resilience without aggression, gentleness without apology, and renewal at your own pace. It’s not just a mascot. It’s a mirror.
Who is Helix?
Helix is our tiny but mighty hedgehog guide—and no, they don’t talk (out loud), but if they did, they’d whisper things like: “Take a breath. You’re doing just fine.”
Helix represents the quieter side of restoration: the kind that happens slowly, softly, and often in the shadows. Like many of us, Helix has days when they curl up and tune out the world. And that’s okay—because this journey isn’t a race. It’s a winding, spiky, beautiful mess of a journey… and Helix gets it.
The name Helix was lovingly chosen by our retreat attendees—proof that community shapes everything we do. It’s a nod to the DNA helix, a symbol of the tangled, often surprising paths we walk in search of identity, truth, and belonging.
You’ll find Helix in our newsletter with monthly tips—gentle nudges to rest, keep going, or simply be. Each month, Helix also offers a reflection, journaling prompt, and grounding ritual right here on our site—a small act of care to support your path.
In a world that moves too fast and asks too much, Helix reminds us to go at the pace of trust. To take shelter when needed. To know that even tiny steps count.
They may be covered in quills, but they’re really just a soft soul in a prickly suit—kind of like the rest of us.
So if you’re here with questions, heartache, hope, or all of the above… Helix is here too. Quietly walking beside you.
Helix-Approved Tip for December
“Give yourself permission to do less. This month, choose one thing each week to intentionally set down; a responsibility, an expectation, or an emotional burden that is not yours to hold. In the spaciousness that remains, reconnect with one small act of nurturing your nervous system: soft lighting, slow breathing, warm nourishment, quiet presence. Even tiny gestures of self-attunement remind the body that it is safe to rest, to feel, and to exist gently.” — Helix
Reflection
Consider the past year as a landscape of experiences. Which moments weighed heavily on you, and which quietly nourished your spirit? Notice without judgment where you carried burdens that were never yours to hold.
Journaling Prompt
If I could release one weight I’ve been carrying this year, what would it be and what would I choose to carry in its place?”
(Write freely, allowing yourself to explore both grief and hope.)
Grounding Ritual: Ember & Ease
Create a “Winter Hearth” ritual for yourself: light a candle or place a warm cup of tea in front of you. Close your eyes, rest your hands on your lap, and take five slow breaths. With each inhale, imagine drawing in warmth and clarity; with each exhale, imagine releasing tension, obligation, and what does not belong to you. Sit in this exchange for a few minutes, letting the quiet settle in your body before returning to your day.
Note from Helix: I’m not a therapist. I’m just a spiky little friend with a big heart who loves sprinkling a little magic through reflection, journaling, and grounding rituals. Think of me as your quirky companion on this journey, here to cheer you on and share some gentle nudges, not to fix anything, just to keep you company.
And if you ever need a real voice or want to share what’s on your heart, we’re here too. Email us anytime—we’d love to hear from you.