Imbolc

On February 1, as sunset sets in, Imbolc is celebrated, a good feast of the upcoming spring, cleansing, and renewal. The earth is still covered with snow, but the first sprouts are already seen in fields, and the air is light and fresh, giving us hope of prompt warmth. The mythology of the holiday marks the birth of the new sun, which gives us more and more warmth day after day. In Wiccan tradition, by the beginning of Imbolc, the Goddess had already started nursing God, to whom she gave birth. The child grows stronger, and so does his mother, whose power augments, thereby gradually transforming her from an old woman to a young girl. Spend this day with Goddess, young and perky, and undertake something that you have not had the guts to do: go to a winter picnic, a ride down an ice slide, hang a bird feeder. But keep in mind that during the holiday it is forbidden to work, do crafts, and drink alcohol. On this particular holiday milk symbolizes fertility, not grain: serve up dishes made from milk on the holiday table and leave milk on the altar. On Imbolc, people not only burn as many candles as possible to light up and purify the house, but also leave burning candles on windowsills all night long until sunrise. With the onset of twilight, engage in spiritual practices and rituals to ensure an abundant harvest, earnings and fertility. For example, sprinkle melting water collected during the day on your folks to guarantee their protection and prosperity throughout the entire year ahead. Mountain fairies and birds today remind us that warmth is near!