Time for a spring clean. Imbolc is coming (1-2 February)...

The days are slowly drawing out, and we are starting to see glimpses of the first signs of spring - yawning and stretching out, shaking off the blankets of winter's darkness. Imbolc is here.

Imbolc (pronounced 'im-olk' - the b is soft) comes from an Irish word meaning 'in the belly' and translates throughout nature - the sense that earth is reawakening, new life is stirring,  brown turns to green again. It traditionally ties in with the start of lambing season known as oimelc - 'ewe's milk', here it will flow again and mark the beginning of fresh food from the land.

Imbolc is also celebrated in honour of Brigid (pronounced 'Breed'); goddess of the sun and fire, healing, creativity and smithcraft.   Forming part of the triple moon goddesses (waxing - maiden, full - mother, waning - crone); this is when she transforms from crone to maiden again, bringing fertility to the land, and representing new beginnings.

Herbs associated with Imbolc...

Ancient traditions and the use of herbs go hand in hand; herbs certainly hold reverence and can be considered sacred, their energy/life force as important as their medicinal qualities.
Blackberry: Held sacred by Brigid, the berries and leaves are thought to bring healing.
Coltsfoot: Thought to dispel emotional stagnation, to unblock and release. It is believed we hold emotion in our lungs, and medicinally coltsfoot is used as a cough remedy; an expectorant and demulcent, it soothes as well as expells.
Angelica: Considered a 'woman's herb', this is a replenishing tonic - supporting the nervous system, to aid menstruation, and to improve sex drive.
Ginger: This puts fire back in the belly - traditionally used for nausea and stomach upsets, this is also a warming herb, it boosts circulation and clears stagnation; it is stimulating and uplifting and great for fighting the cold of winter.
Rowan: Associated with the maiden, it protects and wards off evil. Traditionally a sprig is placed at the front door or worn as protection.

*As always, seek advice if taking medication as some herbs can interact - these listed herbs are illustrative of Imbolc traditions, not necessarily to take! *

Welcoming Imbolc....

There are many traditions and customs honouring Imbolc/Brigid, and acknowledging the transition of seasons. These can be done alone, or shared within communities - Glastonbury for example is well known for these Celtic/pagan celebrations.

• Imbolc marks the first of four fire festivals each year. Representing the sun and light that Brigid is goddess of, and her fire wheel (Brigid's cross) symbolising her protection. Light a candle, watch its flame and contemplate what you want to achieve this coming year.
• Watch the sunset on the 1st Feb - say goodbye to yule and winter
• Burn essential oils - Think earthy, cleansing, energetic, reawakening fragrances: Frankincense, pine, rose, rosemary, cedarwood and lemon are commonly used, but use whatever works for you.
• Have a cleansing bath: This is often on my lists of things to do! But now is the time to have a real deep clean. Make a herbal tea and pour in, add some drops of an essential oil (3 drops is a safe amount). Wash your hair, shave legs (if applicable), scrub nails, get behind the ears - all the while fousing on getting rid of negative thoughts and energies. As the water drains away, imagine they are too.
• 'Spring clean' - traditionally done around Imbolc; a time to clear out the old and allow in the new, declutter your home and your head!
• Eat ewe's dairy! In honour of the coming lambing season (vegans and dairy free folk - just indulge in your alternatives!)
• Plan your garden - Buy seeds ready to sow when the frosts are over
• Set your new intentions for the year - they don't have to be grand gestures, they can be simple; read more, get outdoors more, excercise, reconnect...
• Write what you want to let go of and burn it! (Do this safely -have water nearby to extinguish, use a chiminea etc)

It is time to welcome more  light in our days, and even into our own mental and emotional wellbeing - maybe let go of negative thoughts/patterns/behaviours from the past, and now look to the future with a fresh perspective.
Happy Imbolc!

Brigid's cross - traditionally made from rushes, is still used as a protective symbol in people's homes - where it is hung by a fireplace