Imbolc, the second sabbath of the year, takes place on February 1st and 2nd. It symbolizes the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Imbolc means “in the belly of the mother”, referring to the spring being right around the corner.
This holiday originates from the Celts and celebrates their Irish goddess Brigid. Her name comes from the word Briganti , meaning “the High One”. She represents femininity by her association to fertility, life, motherhood, passion and fire. She also has a connection to water, healing and smithing and is known to protect mothers and newborns. Brigid is associated with the Triple Goddess, as the maiden, symbolizing spring and new beginnings.
Around Imbolc, cows and sheeps usually give birth, producing a lot of milk. Milk was considered sacred and pure since it represented motherhood and was essential to people's survival.
Later on, Christianity borrowed the Irish goddess Brigid and turned her into a saint, claiming she was a real person. The Catholic Church celebrates St. Brigid on February 1st with a feast. In Scottish folklore, the sacred serpent would emerge from its hibernation on Imbolc. If it came out and went about its business, the winter would be over soon but if it returned back to its den, winter would last a while longer. It's similar to Groundhog Day in Canada, celebrated on February 2nd.
Imbolc is the perfect time to start thinking about what we want to plant and harvest this year. Of course, we no longer live off of our crops so it doesn't necessarily mean we need to physically plant some seeds. We can set our intentions and write down which goals we'd like to achieve this season. It is a time for self-reflection where we make plans for the bright future ahead. To celebrate Brigid, we can set up an altar with her symbols and colors, mentioned below. This is a time of new beginnings so we have the opportunity to start fresh and create the life we want. There's no time like the present, take action!
How to celebrate Imbolc at home:
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Light Candles:
Illuminate your space with candles to symbolize the returning light. This act honors Brigid, the goddess of fire, and signifies the increasing daylight as spring approaches.
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Create a Brigid's Cross:
Crafting a Brigid's Cross from materials like straw, wheat, or even paper is a traditional Imbolc activity. These crosses are hung over doorways to invite Brigid's blessings and protection into the home. Here's a link on how to make one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1xZM0alikw&feature=youtu.be
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Bake Traditional Breads:
Prepare breads or cakes using seasonal ingredients. Incorporate herbs such as rosemary or dandelion, which are associated with Brigid, to honor the earth's fertility and the upcoming agricultural season.
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Spring Cleaning:
Commit to a thorough cleaning of your living space. This ritualistic cleansing represents purification and readiness for new beginnings, aligning with Imbolc's themes of renewal and preparation for spring.
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Set Intentions:
Reflect on personal goals and aspirations for the coming months. Consider writing them down or creating a vision board to manifest growth and positive change as the natural world begins to awaken.
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Nature Walks:
Take a walk outdoors to observe signs of the earth's awakening, such as budding trees or emerging shoots. This practice fosters a connection with nature and an appreciation for the changing seasons.
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Decorate Your Altar:
If you have a personal altar, adorn it with symbols of Imbolc, such as white and red candles, early spring flowers, or representations of Brigid. This creates a focal point for meditation and ritual during the festival.
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Engage in Creative Activities:
Since Brigid is the patroness of arts and crafts, spend time engaging in creative pursuits like writing, painting, or crafting. This honors her influence and allows for personal expression.
Key colors and symbols :
- Milk
- Lamb
- Candles
- Snowdrop flowers as they are the first to emerge
- Brigid's Cross (link below to learn how to make one)
- Snake
- Green for new beginnings
- White for purity
- Orange for fire
- Tan
Sources:
https://www.bpl.org/blogs/post/the-origins-and-practices-of-holidays-imbolc-setsubun-lunar-new-year/
https://wiccanow.com/9-important-imbolc-symbols-to-boost-your-festivities/
https://sacredserpents.weebly.com/brighid.html
https://meaganrosewilson.com/2022/01/what-is-imbolc/?utm_source=chatgpt.com