As the days grow in length and the sun rises higher in the sky, here comes the time of Imbolc — the second amongst the Wheel of the Year holidays. Art made by our artist Maggot
[ALT: Art of a lamb laying down and covered in snow, framed with spring flowers.]
Imbolc is traditionally celebrated on the 1st or 2nd of February — the exact date is chosen as the middle between the winter solstice (Yule) and the spring equinox (Ostara). It's dedicated to the rebirth of Brigit, the goddess of life and fertility, and to the awakening of nature after a long winter slumber. This is the time when the first lambs are born on farms, which is why many Imbolc traditions feature figures of sheep and fresh milk. Each family should have placed a platter of milk at the doorstep so that Brigit could visit the household and bring it luck for the whole year. The other important tradition included the Brigit's Cross, a cross often woven of straw and rushes. This amulet was believed to wield great magical power, to deliver households from fireburn, and to provide protection of the goddess.
Brigit was also believed to be a goddess of fire. Throughout the day, people would burn fires and light candles and lamps to fill their houses and towns with her warmth and benevolence. Some other rituals included burning enchanted grass amulets and broomsticks to prevent evil witches and sorcerers from casting spells.
Even now, Imbolc traditions thrive in a new disguise. The Brigit's Cross is known as an unofficial symbol of Ireland, and the goddess herself has become a famous Christian saint.
Which rituals can you perform for Imbolc? Perhaps the best options will be:
Burn your fire! It may not be easy to set an actual fire for city dwellers, but candles and lanterns might be a worthy replacement.
Take a break and go for a walk. Explore your neighborhood for the first small signs of upcoming spring. You may find it relaxing and healing.
Arrange a cleaning in your house. You will be much more open to the new natural cycle if all the negative energy is swept and washed away.
Cook something with cinnamon. It's a spring spice, which combines bitterness and tenderness. Add it to your tea and bakery to charge with the energy of the sun and blossom.
Read the cards. On Imbolc, it's the perfect time to ask for advice in love, relationships, family affairs, and connection to your inner core.
Besides, on this Imbolc, a full Moon appears in the sky, which makes all the rituals far stronger and might fill you with some extra inspiration. Have a good time, and may Brigit bless you today!
