Imbolc, also known as Candlemas or Saint Brigid's Day, is celebrated February 1st - 2nd. It marks the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. This Celtic Fire Festival celebrates the Goddess Brigid and first signs of spring making their appearance. It is a holiday of new beginnings, renewal, hope, and the return of Light.
Imbolc, or Imbolg, translates to "in the belly". Traditionally this time of the year is lambing season. Just like the sheep, the Earth is also pregnant and expectant, full of new life just under the surface. Sheep were also an integral part of life. Their wool offered warm clothing and blankets. They offered milk and meat to sustain life. The birthing of new lambs not only meant the arrival of milk and cheese, but the growing of the herd.
The Goddess Brigid is a Celtic Goddess of fire, hearth, healing, motherhood, child birth, poetry, wisdom, protection, and blacksmithing. She represents the mother aspect of the triple Goddess. Her attributes are light, inspiration and all skills associated with fire. Her name means "Exalted One." Sheep are an animal that is sacred to her but she is also associated with all farm animals and snakes. She was such a beloved Goddess that with the arrival of Christianity she evolved into Saint Brigid. For the celebration of Imbolc, it is tradition to make a Brigid's Cross. The crosses are made of rushes. They are hung by the door and in the rafters of homes to protect the house from fire and evil. Other traditions are to make a Brigid's Doll to bring fertility and good fortune to the home and to light candles for the "Flame of Brigid".
Herbs that are good to work with during Imbolc are coltsfoot, rosemary, basil, ginger, blackberry, lavender, frankincense, and willow. Crystals for Imbolc are amethyst, garnet, moonstone, bloodstone, carnelian, and onyx. Sacred offerings are Brigid's Cross, Brigid's Doll, candles, snowdrop, white flowers, and milk. Some activities to do during Imbolc are spring cleaning. It is a great time to clear out the old to make room for the new! Planting seeds are symbolic of fertility, new beginnings, growth, and renewal. You can even plant each seed with intention, pouring in your hopes, ideas and dreams. While it is still too cold to plant outdoors, you can still start your seeds inside to transplant when spring finally arrives.
Blessed Imbolc!
