In February, we glimpse the first signs of light in the dark of winter and begin to look towards the hopefulness that spring brings. We witness the earth emerging from sleep - seeing new growth on trees and the first spring bulbs beginning to bloom.
Pagan sabbat of Imbolc is celebrated on February 1st. The word Imbolc means ‘in the belly’. Through ritual work, pagans mirror the earth's fertility and consider what we would like to bring into our lives in the year ahead.
Imbolc is an opportune time to bring new ideas and projects forth into the world, for growing what we’ve been thinking about over winter.
Like all cross-quarter Sabbats, the festival of Imbolc focuses on the element of fire, and as we are still in the cold, late winter season, gatherings, celebrations and rituals typically happen in the home by the hearthside, around a warm bonfire or surrounded by candlelight.
Ways to mark Imbolc
Ritual with a focus on:
Renewal
Transition
Awakenings
Beginnings
Emergence
Setting Intentions
Look for signs of spring on a nature walk
Plant seeds
Light candles
Clean and cleanse your home (a window washing ritual is a particular favourite of mine at Imbolc, let that light flood into your home!)
A few suggestions of herbs and flowers suitable for Imbolc are snowdrops, hellebore, gorse, witch hazel and primrose. If deity worship is your thing, goddesses known for their ties to springtime include Bridgid, Gaia, Artemis, Cerriwiden, Bastet and Vesta, so find a beautiful piece of artwork or a statue to display. Candles! White candles are associated with this Sabbat.
Look for signs of spring on a nature walk
Plant seeds
Light candles
Clean and cleanse your home (a window washing ritual is a particular favourite of mine at Imbolc, let that light flood into your home!)
Divination
Do a tarot reading for yourself, or my books are open for readings.
So to all of my fellow pagans and witches, and to those of you who feel called to mark the occasion for the first time, enjoy Imbolc!
Much love,
Hayley
Xx