Celebrating Imbolc and the New Moon- February 2024
Imbolc, also known as Saint Brigid's Day or Candlemas, is a pagan festival that marks the midway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It is traditionally celebrated on February 1st or 2nd, depending on the specific tradition or cultural practices. Imbolc is associated with the early signs of spring, the increasing strength of the sun, and the anticipation of new life.
The word "imbolc" means "in the belly of the Mother," because the seeds of spring are beginning to stir in the belly of Mother Earth. So too within us are seeds beginning to stir. For some, February is traditionally a “checking” point for our New Year Resolutions or Intentions. It’s the point of a cycle where we find out how we are doing; what has worked and what has not. What needs more attention and what needs less.
This holiday also celebrates Brigid, the Celtic fire and fertility goddess. Eventually, Brigid was adopted by Christianity as St. Brigid who is he patron saint of Irish nuns, newborns, midwives, dairy maids and cattle. Bth the Celtic and Christianity Brigid are associated with milk, fire, the home, and babies
About a week after is the New Moon in Aquarius on February 9th. This is a great time for us to be thinking about the seeds that we want to plant with the spring equinox in March. In ancient times Imbolc was celebrated to reaffirm life and start thinking about the coming harvest season.
A new moon in the sign of the water- bearer is one that is centered around community and humanity. It’s a good time to set intentions that help attract the life that you want to live.. This is a very energetic new Moon, meaning it’s a time to work on your inner energetic body and the vibration you are emitting to the world.
Whatever you emit attracts energy back in. This energy may come to you in the form of people, projects, resources, or other serendipitous encounters that help you manifest your visions. What energy do you want to. put out into the world that will come back to you?
It all starts with you, though, and the energy you are vibrating daily. This new Moon can help you fine-tune your frequency to make sure it reflects your authentic truth and the life you want to live.
Ways to celebrate Imbolc:
Lighting Candles:
Imbolc is often referred to as the "Festival of Lights." Lighting candles symbolizes the increasing power of the sun and the triumph of light over darkness. Consider placing candles in windows or lighting a candle for each member of the family.
Brigid's Cross:
Create a Brigid's Cross, a traditional symbol associated with the holiday. This cross is made from reeds or straw and is often hung over doorways for protection and to invite the blessings of the goddess Brigid, who is associated with healing, poetry, and smithcraft.
Spring Cleaning:
Imbolc is a time for purification and preparing for the coming of spring. Engage in spring cleaning, both physically and spiritually, to clear out the old and make way for new energy.
Altar Decorations:
Decorate your altar with symbols of the season, such as snowdrops, early spring flowers, and representations of the sun. Incorporate items associated with Brigid, such as the Brigid's Cross, a cauldron, or a symbol of the triple goddess.
Feast:
Prepare a feast with seasonal foods. Dairy products, grains, and seeds are often associated with Imbolc. Consider making dishes with fresh dairy, bread, and sprouted grains to honor the returning fertility of the land.
Imbolc Rituals and Ceremonies:
Create your own rituals or ceremonies to honor the season. This could include meditation, divination, or activities that reflect the themes of purification, new beginnings, and growth.
Outdoor Activities:
Spend time outdoors to connect with nature. Take a nature walk to observe the changing landscape, and if weather permits, have a bonfire or participate in outdoor activities that celebrate the turning of the seasons.
Seed Blessing:
Bless seeds or plant bulbs as a symbolic representation of the potential for growth and the coming of spring. This can be done in your garden or even in pots indoors.
Remember that Imbolc has various traditions and customs associated with it, and the specific way you celebrate may depend on your personal beliefs, cultural background, or the particular pagan tradition you follow.
Join me on February 11 from 6-7:30pm for a New Moon + Imbolc Ceremony!
