The Celtic traditional day of Imbolc marks the half way point between the Winter Solstice and the Vernal (Spring) Equinox. It represents the end of the dark days and the turning point toward spring awakening!
What is happening beneath us?
February represents a significant shift in the day length as recognized by plants in their natural growth cycles. In the Northern Hemisphere, daylight finally reaches 10 hours after months of short, dark days. This also marks Groundhogs day on February 2nd, which represents the day that even the animals anticipate the coming of spring! Within the cool earth beneath us, seeds begin to wake up and prepare for spring growth.
A Time of Awakening
Food For Thought | For many gardeners, Imbolc represents the day that the first seeds are sown in greenhouses for summer plants. In Southern most states, growers are able to begin the planting of spring harvested plants. Winter hearty plants such as lettuce, spinach, mustards, kale and collards begin their growth cycle with a little help from season extenders like a cold frame or mini hoop tunnels.
A Little Loving | Imbolc is a Gaelic traditional festival, often linked to Brigid, the goddess of spring, fertility, and life. Representing luck and fertility, this day is meaningful for animals as well. As the start of the mating season for different wildlife, including great horned owls, bald eagles, cottontail rabbits, skunks and even newts and salamanders. Don't be surprised to find some of these critters wander into your back yard as they look out for their true love!
A Personal Awakening| For human kind, this is a time of reflection, setting of positive intentions, anticipation of growth and awakenings. We can clear out our old ways of thinking and living, and work in harmony with the natural cycles around us. This is a time to observe natures awakening by keeping a journal of the wildlife that starts to visit your area and the changes in growth you observe through the winter frosts. Nature journaling is the practice of drawing or writing in response to nature. This fun, and stress reducing practice helps you to connect with the natural world, with yourself, and give you a sense of your place in this natural world.