Imbolc - the start of Spring
The daffodils that are popping their heads up and the baby lambs that are abounding are a sure sign of early Spring and the pagan festival of IMBOLC. Traditionally held on 1st August, it is 7th August this year in the southern hemisphere.
Signalling that it is the gateway to Spring, and to prepare the pastures and livestock for new life, Imbolc also "honours the Celtic hearth goddess, Brigid, whose triple goddess aspects rule over smithcraft, healing and poetry. At Imbolc, she is in her maiden form, preparing her body for new life as she embarks on the fertility rites of early spring."
Pre-Christianity in Ireland, Druidesses would meet under the goddess's beloved oak tree on a hilltop in Kildare. Around a bonfire they would ask for blessings over the livestock and crops to ensure fertility across the land. After Christianity arrived in Ireland in the 5th century, Brigid the Goddess then became Saint Brigid of Kildare.
Traditionally, and in modern times, "Imbolc calls for cleansing our bodies, spirits, and homes of what no longer serves us [spring-cleaning], forming intentions for the planting season, and preparing ourselves for the growth that awaits."
For her fresh looking Imbolc altar Irah has used the following crystals to symbolise:
Aromatics to symbolise the vigour of Spring:
Lemongrass, chamomile, rosemary, sage, lavender, mint, frankincense, myrrh
Notes from 'The Ultimate Guide To The Witch's Wheel of the Year' by Anjou Kirenan
