As the New Emerges
We are now passed the tipping point of the year, and while the intensity of winter’s weather has yet to arrive, the seasonal wheel continues to turn. This means that Imbolc will be approaching. Also known as Candlemas, this is a sacred moment when witches pause to observe the fragile first stirrings of spring with the gradual increase of light.
As the origins of contemporary witchcraft are in the Northern Hemisphere, traditionally Imbolc takes place around the end of January or early February, where it coincides with the sacred day of Brigid (both a saint and goddess), who is often associated with renewal of life upon the land after the winter. In the Southern Hemisphere, the timing of Imbolc is often moved to the end of July or early August, to mark this time renewal that occurs between the winter solstice (the time of the longest night) and the spring equinox (a time of balance).
As such, Imbolc marks a perfect time to tap into this renewal and the potential of what is about to emerge from the darkness.
Brigid’s Day ~ Being a goddess associated with both fire and fertility, Brigid can be appropriately honoured at the Imbolc date regardless of hemisphere. This means that even in the Southern Hemisphere where early February is associated with Lammas/Lughnasadh (the first harvest), it is her fire aspect that can be observed. With the first signs of spring approaching, it is Brigid’s fertility that is marked through the making of Brigid’s cross. Altars are decorated with white flowers and candles to signify the returning life and light to the land, while offerings of milk and bread are made. Imbolc, after all, means "in the milk", a reference to sheep and lambing at this time of year.
Awakening Connections ~ As we emerge from the darkness, you may feel a stirring within to awaken a sense of community. This may be through sharing a meal with friends or by attending a gathering where the return of the light is observed.
As life is stirring, it is time to embrace the renewal that Imbolc brings
