Imbolc
Winter is starting to fade ...the first signs of spring begin to appear.
Imbolc is a celebration to welcome spring. It recognizes the mid-point between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox.
Also Known As: Brigit’s Day, Groundhog Day, Blessing of the Plow, Disting, Feast of the Virgin, Festival of Milk.
Usually celebrated beginning at sundown on February 1 and continuing through the day of February 2
Traditionally marked as the beginning of the lambing season, it is a festival of fertility and light. Celebrating the first signs of spring, the start of the agricultural year and the birth of livestock.
Imbolc Correspondences:
Colors:
White, Pink, Red, Yellow, light Green, Brown.
Incense:
Basil, Bay, Wisteria, Cinnamon, Violet, Vanilla, Myrrh.
Herbs:
Chamomile, Rosemary, Lavender, Acorns, Basil, Angelica, Basil, Bay Laurel, Blackberry, Celandine, Coltsfoot, Heather, Iris, Myrrh, Tansy, Violets, and all white or yellow flowers.
Oils:
Angelica, Basil, Bay, Blackberry, Chamomile, Frankincense, Lavender, Olive, Rosemary
Stones:
Amethyst, Bloodstone, Garnet, Ruby, Onyx, Turquoise.
Foods:
Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower seeds, Poppyseed Cakes, muffins, scones, and breads, all dairy products, White Meats, Peppers, Onions, Garlic, Raisins, Spiced Wines and Herbal Teas.
Animals:
Lamb, Deer, GroundHog, phoenix, sheep, awakening bear
Symbols:
Bonfires, Besoms, White Flowers, Candle Wheels, Brighid’s Crosses, Priapic Wands (acorn-tipped), and Ploughs.
Trees:
Rowan, Willow
Spells:
Fertility, Awakening, Protection, Blessings, Truth, Cleansing
Traditions:
Candle Lighting (light Candles or lamps in each room of the house right after sunset for a few minutes to honor the Sun’s rebirth) is a great easy way to celebrate Candlemas.
Snow Hiking and Searching for Signs of Spring help us get in touch with the Earth and honor the turning wheel on this Sabbat.
Spring cleaning is another time honored tradition that takes root with this Sabbat. Cleanse your home physically and spiritually
Changing the Altar. I often change my altar to honor the Sabbats. I place items on it that correspond to Imbolc in observance and honor of the day.
Feasting/Gathering. It’s always nice to have a reason to celebrate and hold festivities. Even something as simple as a dinner served using foods that relate to Imbolc. Bonfires are great too weather permitting.
History/Lore
Especially sacred to the Celtic Fire Goddess, Brigit, patron of smithcraft, healing, midwifery, and poetry.
She is the triple goddess and in her maiden aspect this time of year, she represents the virgin or sister aspect of the goddess. She marks the changing of the goddess from crone to maiden state. At Imbolc the sun king is reborn as a baby and nurses at Brigid’s breast.
Born at daybreak, in Irish mythology she was the daughter of the father god of Ireland. She left shamrocks and flowers wherever she walked and gave birth to three warrior sons. After many battles, she bought unity to the celts who all agreed with her compassion. Brigid, is a goddess who brings hope and reminds us that spring is on its way. This hope is celebrated through Imbolc, the festival dedicated to her.
I have held a connection to the Goddess/Saint Brigid for many years now. As a poet myself, She is the only Goddess that appealed and spoke to me beyond my Christian Goddess. I enjoy using this day to honor her.
No matter how you celebrate, The Wheel continues to turn. Take time to stop and appreciate nature and the universe around you.
