Imbolc Blessings, February 2, 2012

Groundhog Day, February 2nd is known as the high Celtic feast day of Imbolc. 

Snow is on the ground and it seems as if winter will not end.  However, with the arrival of Imbolc comes the hope of Spring.   It is a time to call upon the universe to warm and heal us.  It is a time to be inspired. 

There are healing herbs for our mind, body and spirit to get us through the remainder of winter.  Think of the warmth of cinnamon in the air, the healing of evergreen or eucalyptus.  The uplifting aroma of citrus brightens the spirit.  This can be used in teas or a small amount sprinkled on a candle to release the aroma.  And of course, let’s not forget the concept of cooking.

We need to remind ourselves to use our power and the gift of the elements to balance, ground, and rejuvenate ourselves.   Use the color turquoise for healing and poetry to fan the flame of inspiration.

In Ireland and Scotland, the women make dolls from corn husks and carry them from home to home.  Her name is Bridget and she is decorated with flowers, shells, stones and ribbons.  Elements of the earth to be honored and cherished.   The children chant Bridget is coming, Bridget is coming.

Perhaps you could make a similar item at home and light a fire or candle to honor her and the earth.

Work on leaving the winter behind and prepare for a bright, new spring.   After all, Spring is coming and with it new growth and a new freshness.  Embrace it.

posted by Dsandra

The History of Jack...

The Jack-o-lantern tradition started in Ireland several hundred years ago. As the story goes, there was a character named Jack or Stingy Jack as he was called. Stingy Jack was a thief and a drunk who like to torment people by playing malicious tricks on everyone. Tis said, Jack even tricked the devil into promising that he would not take his soul when he died. However, when Jack did pass on, he was denied entrance to heaven because of the mean tricks he had played and since the devil wouldn't take him either, he was trapped in the void in between.


The devil commanded Jack to leave his gates and tossed an ember from the fire at the spirit to light his way. Jack placed the ember in a hollowed out turnip (his favorite food when he was alive) and begin to wander the earth looking for a resting place. With the lantern held in front of him he became known as Jack of the Lantern. After that on all Hallow's eve, the Irish would carve out turnips and place a candle inside to ward off evil spirits. When the Irish came to the US they brought the tradition with them. However, pumpkins were easier to come by than turnips and much easier to carve. Happy Pumpkins to you!

this post was contributed by Dsandra