We spoke to Staffordshire University Coven society about how to celebrate the Pagan holiday that celebrates life, healing, and the beginning of Spring.
Imbolc (pronounced 'im'olk' ), and Irish word meaning "in the belly" was one of the cornerstones of the Celtic calendar.
It is an important time for Pagans as it resonates with their deep connection to the natural world. The success of the new farming season is a necessity as it is core to Imbolc rituals that were performed to ensure food supply after winter stores were getting low, until the next harvest. It is Feile Brighde, the 'quickening of the year'.
Imbolc is traditionally the great festival and honouring of Brigid - a pagan Goddess so beloved that the Christian church knows her as St Bridget. She brings fertility to the land and its people and is closely associated with midwives and new-borns. Despite being the Triple Goddess, at Imbolc, she is in her Maiden aspect.
"It is time to let go of the past and to look to the future, clearing out the old, making both outer and inner space for new beginnings. This can be done in numerous ways, from spring cleaning your home to clearing the mind and heart to allow inspiration to enter for the new cycle."
Ways to celebrate: Plant spring flowers, read poetry, clean your house, tell stories or get around to things you'd neglected.
Ways to celebrate alone this lockdown:
If you want to find out more about Imbolc or any other Pagan festivals, reach out to the Staffs Uni Coven.
Have something to say about Imbolc? Get in touch at union@staffs.ac.uk or have your say: