Imbolc marks the transition from winter to spring, typically observed on February 2. It is the time when initial signs of spring appear, and the sun begins its return. This signifies the close of winter and the sun God’s gradual emergence. It’s also a period to honor the Goddess Brighid and her transformation from Crone to Maiden.

Getting Ready For Imbolc

In anticipation of the light’s arrival, many people have a custom of lighting every lamp in their home following a ritual. You can step out onto the residual snow and experience the sun’s warmth as it overcomes the chill. A remarkable change is taking place in the universe while we observe below in wonder.

Setting Up Your Imbolc Altar

Your Imbolc altar should reflect certain colors, plants, and symbols that are fitting for honoring the God, Goddess, and the season.

Colors

Incorporate a dominant mix of red and white for your altar. The white stands for the melting snow, while the red symbolizes the awakening sun.

Flowers

During this time, most flora are still buds and yet to bloom. It’s perfectly fine to use this in your altar decoration (if your flowers bloom indoors, that’s alright).

Shapes

Given that Brighid is a Celtic Goddess, it’s fitting to include Celtic motifs on your altar (circles, spirals, triquetras, etc.).

“Bidding Farewell to Winter” Solitary Ritual

This ritual aims to assist the sun God in waking from winter, casting away snow, and enveloping us in warmth and comfort.

What you’ll need:

• Candle
• Pot or cauldron
• Small candles for additional light or a night lamp (optional)
• A paper snowflake

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Steps to Follow:

1. Begin in a dark room, symbolizing the chill of winter. Use drapes or sheets to block as much light as possible.
2. Set your candle in a holder next to your pot or cauldron (do not light the candle yet). If it becomes too dim, have a smaller candle or night lamp for illumination.
3. Take your snowflake outdoors. Stand in the cold for a few minutes to fully feel the winter’s chill.
4. Hold the snowflake up to your face and reflect on the essence of winter, its impact on the world, and on you. Consider how winter allows life to gather strength and rejuvenate.
5. Return indoors. Relish in the warmth and safety of your space.
6. When you feel prepared, recite these words, or create your own with a similar sentiment:

“The days grew shorter and shorter; the nights longer and longer,Winter became colder and colder, enveloping the earth in chill.The sea froze over, and we witnessed life wither and fall.As we felt the cold, we understood it would not endure.The spark of life within the Goddess forever remains,Spring is approaching, bringing warmth, comfort, and anticipation.”

1. Ignite your candle. Sense how the light fills the space with warmth and vitality. Picture the sun making the land warm.
2. State the following or similar phrases (source):

“That spark of light, akin to the brightness at the end of the tunnel, is ever-present.Even when submerged in profound darkness and sorrow, we recognize it exists.It is a promise that remains; and even while unseen, we merely need toHold it in our hearts… and, as promised, light will always return.It grows, melting the remnants of winter.”

1. Take your snowflake and hold it over the flame. Once it catches fire, place it in the pot. Gaze at it and say:

“It melts the cold, grows, and dissolves despair.It fills the darkness, heralding hope and a fresh start.