All you need to know about Imbolc
Imbolc marks the quiet stirrings of Spring, a time to celebrate Brigid, Goddess of light and new beginnings. As the days grow longer, it's the perfect moment to nurture your dreams, allowing them to slowly take root before the full arrival of Spring.
“Can you feel something magical stirring in the air? Though there’s a noticeable chill still holding on in the breeze, Spring – and the promise of sunshine – is slowly coming!
We’re approaching the first of the Celtic Fire Festivals – Imbolc – a celebration of fertility, purification, awakening, and of the fiery Goddess of light: Brigid!
Though some officially mark Imbolc on the second New Moon after the Winter Solstice, you might feel called to welcome the return of light from 1st February.
Page from Moon Phase Studios 13 Moon Journal
A common translation of Imbolc is "in the belly of the mother," which is exactly where the abundance of energy sits at this pivotal moment in the year's wheel.
It’s believed that the Earth Goddess has the tiniest seed of life implanted in her womb at this time, an early sign of what is to grow and birth into the world as the solar energies begin to rise.
So, a gentle reminder not to rush into new plans; let them bubble and boil in the cauldron a little longer as you set the scene for magic.
Traditionally, this is the time for new beginnings and a slowly-does-it approach to setting a ‘fertile’ ground for all our dreams and ideas to grow.
Oak and Holly King illustration from the Wheel of the Year print and booklet
Though Imbolc is traditionally a fire festival of light, in sensory Herbalism, this is a time of the element of Water; look out for lymphatic cleansing herbs like cleavers and nettle popping up during this time.
“Whether you’re completely new to working with Goddesses or feeling ready to deepen your connection to the pagan myths and magic from the wheel of the year, Imbolc's strong connection with Brigid is a great initiation and an opportunity to learn more.
After all, so much of the wheel of the year anchors on the Earth as a living, breathing, cyclical goddess of change!
As the Celtic Goddess of Fire, Brigid signifies the illumination of the darkness of the winter and bringing about the emergence of spring. She is revered for her healing powers and wisdom, symbolising inspiration and creativity. Brigid is represented in three aspects: the healer, the smith, and the poet, these facets embodying her role in protection, craftsmanship, and wisdom.
Take time to read her myths and learn her gifts. Or even better, make a small altar in your home to her and see what inspiration comes through!
About Trudi
Trudi is our resident womb priestess and a sacred cycle ceremonialist. As a shamanic practitioner, womb healer and wisdom keeper of the old ways, she guides us back to our natural cyclical connections.
Trudi contributes to Moon Phase Studios Pagan wheel email series with insights and rituals to connect us to each of the pagan festivals. You can sign up to receive these emails by entering your email in the box below.
You can contact Trudi via her website Wild Samsara or by following her accounts on
