In early February, pagans celebrate a time of waiting and watching for spring. The first days of February are variously known as Imbolc, Candlemas, and even Groundhog Day. Candlemas is the Christian festival of lights, the day of the candles. On Groundhog Day on February 2nd, people wait and watch for the groundhog to emerge and determine whether spring is near.
For pagans, Imbolc is a time for purification and celebration of the spring that is about to come. It is a time of awakening and the stirring of the new growth that is spring. Celebrate the return of Brigit, the Goddess who brings life and light to the land.
Light a Candle to Celebrate the Return of the Light
The winter solstice celebrates the return of light to the world. Now light is returning. Light your solstice lanterns and candles and celebrate its return. Surround them with symbols of the coming spring, such as plants, herbs, and sprouts in containers.
Make Pagan Crafts to Celebrate the Coming of Spring
Decorate to honor the old and bring in the new. Decorate plant pots and drop petals around the dinner table. Mix these with evergreen boughs for a celebration of the winter and the coming spring. For those who are inclined towards crafts, create a Brigid's cross to celebrate the energy that is the springtime.
Imbolc is a Time to Look Forward to Spring and New Growth
Go on a walk in the forest to search for signs of spring. Buds are tightly shut, ready to open in a few weeks. Perhaps some bulbs like snowdrops already peek through the soil. Listen for bird songs and learn the songs of the birds that live in your area. Birds have special songs for mating and springtime.
Plan for Spring Planting and Summer Harvest
If you have a garden, this is the time to order seeds and start some of the earliest crops. Go outside and get a sense of the light, the wind, and the moisture patterns of the garden. If there is no garden nearby, think about ways to reconnect with the cycles of planting and harvest and feed yourself more locally this year.
Create Rituals of Awakening for Midwinter
Imbolc is a centerpoint, the first stirrings of the awakening of spring. Connect to what awakens you. Books like The Artist's Way are good methods of being meditative and acting on those thoughts. Spend time meditating and stretching, whatever awakens your body in a positive way. Sing songs that celebrate new beginnings.
Clean and Prepare Your Home for the New Year on Imbolc
Spring time is a time to renew the home. Clean out older clothes and unused items and donate them to those who are in need. Plan changes to make in the home this year. Clean thoroughly. It is still dark and cold, so this holiday, spend some time making your home a place that welcomes the energy of the coming year.
Imbolc is a time to celebrate the first stirrings of spring. Think about ways to celebrate that involve the waking earth and your waking spirit.
Sources:
Book Review: The Artist's Way, Laura Shaffer, Suite 101
How to Make a Brigid's Cross, Earth Witcheryweb site link
Local Eating Resources, The 100 Mile Diet web site link
Tricia Edgar - Tricia Edgar is a gardener, environmental educator, and science writer from the Pacific Northwest.
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