Culture News: Celebrating Imbolc, an invitation of emerging life into the spirit
Imbolc is a Gaelic traditional festival celebrated from sunset to sunset Feb. 1 by Wiccans and neo-Druids alike to invite the emerging life in the natural world into our spirits, embracing the cleansing nature of the approaching spring season.
The Celtic goddess Brigid, ruler of fire, blacksmiths, wells, healing waters, springs and poets, brings milk to cow’s udders, prepares the births of the first livestock of the year and encourages farmers and fishers to get back to work. There are many ways to celebrate as a sole practitioner or member of a coven.
Decorate your altar with red and white; red symbolizes the rising sun or blood of life while white represents a blanket of snow. Brigid is also associated with the color green for the green mantle she wears and life she brings to the earth. Because the holiday is in preparation for spring, it is also appropriate to decorate with any flowers or plants. Other additions may include a cauldron or chalice, mini anvil or hammer, Brigid doll, animal or goddess statue, book of poetry, healing herbs, baked goods and many candles.
Start with a cleansing bath. Tie some calming-scented herbs like sage or lavender into a muslin cloth or bag and hang it on the faucet to let the warm water run through them. Light some candles to avoid harsh florescent lighting, put on some music to set the mood and relax. Meditate and release the negative energy from your body.
Make a Brigid straw doll, also known as a Brideog, or the infinitely more challenging Brigid cross. Traditionally, the man of the house takes on this task. To make a Brideog, twist straw, rushes or corn husks into the shape of a doll, wrap it in white fabric and adorn it with pretty things found in nature. Hang the Brideog above your door(s) to invite Brigid’s magic into your home.
Another way to celebrate is to get an early start on spring cleaning! Get rid of clutter, scrub down all surfaces and let in the fresh air! There are plenty of ceremony instructions for cleaning on Imbolc out there, but for the sole practitioner, it’s all about doing what feels right.
After polishing your home, take in the flames of a fire and feast with loved ones! Many Celtic celebrations involve lighting a fire, but it is especially important to do so for Imbolc to please the fire goddess, symbolizing the returning power of the sun. If possible, prepare the meal over the fire. While most may find this especially challenging, Imbolc reminds us of our humble beginnings. At least roast marshmallows for s’mores!
Whether you are a sole practitioner or prefer a group setting, there are a plethora of ways one can celebrate Imbolc. Let Pacer Times know how you celebrate by sending photos to our email (pacertimes@gmail.com) for an exclusive gallery!
