Imbolc is a celebration of the end of winter nearing and light returning, as it is the midpoint between winter and spring. Imbolc represents that the hardest part of winter is over.
As with all Celtic celebrations, this is a time to protect against evil and promote health and wellbeing. It’s a time to plant seeds in the ground to watch them grow (weather and climate permitting), or plant ideas to see them germinate in the mind. The word Imbolc means “in belly” which suggests that nature is pregnant and ready to bloom. This can be literal, with Celts referring to their pregnant livestock, and flowers soaking up the wet Earth from all the snow and readying to bloom. It can also be metaphorical, because Imbolc represents a time of rebirth, where we are awakening from the darkness of winter.
A popular belief in Gaelic times was that if the weather was especially bad on Imbolc, that it meant a great summer was on the way. In Irish folklore, the Cailleach would spend the day collecting firewood for herself if the winter was going to last longer. She would need a bright and dry day to do this, so if it’s wet and windy during Imbolc, it means she went to sleep and winter would be over sooner.
One goddess the Celts worshiped during Imbolc was Brigid, associated with poetry and fertility, and activities such as tending to livestock, healing, smithing, arts and crafts. Her role as the fertility goddess was important during Imbolc, but her healing powers and protective sense were important too. Like many mother goddesses she can preside over life and death. She is thought by many to be the Celtic equivalent to Roman goddess Minerva and Greek goddess Athena.
Brigid has a strong connection with the sun, which was important as Imbolc reflects the sun’s return. Brigid represented the light half of the year, and her presence was revered during Imbolc. On Imbolc Eve, she was said to visit the most virtuous homes and bless all those who slept in them, so people would leave pieces of clothing, food or other tokens at the entrance of their home. Offerings were also brought to waterways and wells that were named in Brigid’s honor.
According to Christianity, Saint Bridget was not a goddess, but a real woman born around 5th Century AD. She became a nun, founded monasteries and performed a fair share of miracles. After her death, she was made one of Ireland’s patron saints (and only female patron saints). It was a more natural progression for Imbolc, the pagan festival that involved worshiping Brigid to become the Christian festival in honor of Saint Bridget.
How can I celebrate Imbolc?
Like many Wheel of the Year celebrations, Imbolc included bonfires. These were symbolic of the sun’s return. Rather than a huge bonfire at the center of celebrations, this celebration was more about hearth and home. Each home in the community would burn a fire through the night. You can honor this tradition by lighting candles around your house or having a bonfire in the crisp winter air.
Plan or plant your garden. Take time to plan the garden rotation or plant seeds.
Go on a walk in nature. Find any sign of spring that you can! Some early blooming plants have already started their journey out of the darkness.
Visit a waterway. Traditionally this was a time for visiting holy water to purify and bring fertility to dreams. If you find clean water, splash some on yourself as you set intentions to cleanse and purify. Thank the place you visit and pick up any trash you might see nearby.
Spring Cleaning Ritual. Cleanse your space with salt or smoke to make room for more energy. Open the windows and doors to let changing air come through your home. Or take the literal approach and start spring cleaning. Clear out unnecessary clutter or old memories. Make room in your house and body for new energy that spring brings.
Create an altar for Imbolc.
Gather fresh herbs or sprouts for your altar. Have candles, since Imbolc is very much about light. Brigid’s cross, corn dolls, cauldrons, white flowers, seeds, sun wheels and a dish of snow are great for this time of the year.
More associated herbs and flowers are:
acorns, angelica, basil, bay, blackberry, chamomile, crocus, jasmine, lavender, rosemary
Colors:
Brown, pink, green, yellow, red, white
Stones and Crystals:
Amethyst, bloodstone, ruby, turquoise
Animals:
Burrowing animals, bears, deer, lamb, sheep
Imbolc is associated with awakenings, blessings, fertility, fresh starts, home & hearth, hope, new life, protection, rebirth, reuniting, truth, wishing. It’s a great time to do spellwork that might correspond with these things.
Set your intentions. Since Imbolc isn’t long after New Year, it’s a great time to look deeper into your goals and intentions for the coming spring. Meditate or journal with your intentions and think about what you want to tend and grow this year in yourself and your world.
Comments