Honoring the Goddess Brigid

Imbolc is also Known as Brigid’s Day, Brigid is the Goddess of Spring,

Imbolc is here - the spark of hope that came with the sun’s return at the Winter Solstice is now engulfed in Brigid’s flame. With this on the fire of life has been reignited in the world around us. Imbolc is held on February 1st, at this time the earth’s energy has shifted from the grit that it takes to make it through each winter’s day into a full anticipation of the abundance that springtime has to offer. Soon, the first blooms will burst into the world and with them, a changing earth to behold. There is no doubt why this midway point was such a significant time to the ancient people of Ireland. Winter can be a harsh time where passion can fade from even the most hardy of us.

At Imbolc, people looked to the goddess Brigid to carry them through the rest of the cold months and later, to St. Bridget to watch over them and protect their home and hearth. Brigid is the Irish goddess of spring, fertility, and life. Beloved by poets, she was the master of both healing and smithing is no small wonder why a day as significant as this has withstood the test of time and faith. Brigid is considered the “wise woman” whose wiles we can look to for guidance and inspiration to keep trudging forward.

Photo by @emmastonerphoto Model: @libbyangove wearing Pagan Queen hand fasting wedding dress.

There are many different ways to honor this day. Historically, people would gather reeds and bind them together to make a Brigid’s cross. These were hung on the western wall of a household and were believed to protect the house. This is a practice that is still common and many walls are graced with fresh Brigid’s crosses each Imbolc. You can find a tutorial on how to make your own here.

Photo by @myriam_delirium

This day is also an excellent opportunity to think about what fuels your own inner fire. Now that the internal season of winter is showing it’s first signs of fading, it is time to shift our focus outward. What brings you joy, even in dark times? What creative goals do you have for yourself as spring brings new energy? This is a time to make moves and begin bringing those goals to life.