Reflecting on Imbolc
As you know, we like to follow the Wheel of the Year, a seasonal framework rooted in ancient druid traditions and earth-based mythologies. It offers eight points in the year to pause, reflect and realign, inviting us to move a little more slowly and consciously in a world that often demands the opposite.
As we naturally turn inward during the darker months for rest and recuperation, we’re given time to assimilate what has been learned, what has been gained and what has been shed over the past year. This quiet integration creates fertile ground, not yet visible, but quietly preparing to host new growth as the light continues its gradual return, looking towards Spring. This year, I gave myself permission to “hibernate” through January, and it’s been a wonderful change to the usual pressure and guilt of not quite hitting the mark with starting the year off with energy and enthusiasm. Leaning into the idea of ‘wintering’ has meant I’ve come out of hibernation with more energy and enthusiasm, as I’ve simply listened to my body and gave it the rest it needed.
Imbolc arrives in this in-between space, marking the very earliest stirrings of spring. Traditionally, nothing should be in full bloom yet, but something has shifted. Beneath the surface, life is gathering momentum. The earth is beginning to wake. On our colour walk, it was clear though that climate change is truly having an impact with snowdrops and daffodils on full display already as of the first of February, along with many other blossoms and colours making an early appearance.
On our walk we also enjoyed the sight of a rainbow over Kewstoke, and as we were finishing up, a beautiful sunset to complete our nature walk.
There was something really special about being intentional about noticing the change in nature as we walked, and we were rewarded for our venture out into the wet, grey day with some truly beautiful sights and great conversation.
We retired back to HQ for pizza and a creative exercise to honour Brigid, the Goddess who is considered a symbol of inspiration and creativity in connection to the tradition of Imbolc.
Thank you to those who joined me for Imbolc, and if you like the sound of our seasonal gatherings and would like to come along to our next one, you can find out more here.
