Imbolc is almost upon us, it is the time when Spring starts to show herself in small bits. Around this time the jonquils are flowering, trees have their buds just waiting to flourish with colourful delight; the weather is not as cold but often also has a final cold snap or two before it settles into the slightly warmer days of August. I’ve spent the past couple of days writing out a list of seeds I will be putting in in early August, most are veg given the rising cost of things, growing your own food – even the smallest amount – helps. The traditional date for Imbolc is August 1st however the astrological date this year is August 8th so if you feel you’re a bit behind – you have some time to start planning.
Imbolc is a traditional - and some argue, neolithic Celtic fire festival that marks the halfway point between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. Traditionally Imbolc was celebrated as the end of winter and the beginning of spring; this time of year ewes would be lambing (Imbolc meaning 'in the belly' thought to refer to pregnant ewes) and the beginning buds of spring would be peeking through. It is also called Candlemas and was incorporated into Christianity and became a day to celebrate Saint Bridget - otherwise known as Brighid, the Celtic Goddess of Smithcraft, Healing and Poetry. So loved was Brighid that Imbolc became a Sabbat dedicated to her; as a Fire Goddess she represented the returning warmth, light and growing season. A traditional tribute to her was creating a Brighid's Cross. Imbolc is a good time to begin rituals of renewal, begin creating your Spring garden, looking to the future and making plans as to how you want the rest of the year to progress.
Here is my altar for Imbolc – the little dolly was made by my best friend and was featured in the Imbolc Sabbat box.
This bi-monthly's Practical Witchery box is also available for sale, the theme is 'Sacred Space'.
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