Imbolc, also known as Candlemas, is a pagan festival midway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

Celebrated on February 1st or 2nd, Imbolc is a time of transition, where the chilly days of winter give way to the promise of spring.

It is a celebration of light, renewal, and the return of life to the Earth.

Imbolc History and Origins

Imbolc has its roots in ancient Celtic traditions and is associated with the goddess Brigid, who is revered as the goddess of fire, poetry, and healing.

Brigid represents the divine feminine and is often depicted as a triple goddess, embodying the aspects of maiden, mother, and crone.

The festival of Imbolc was a time of great significance for the ancient Celts.

It marked the earth's awakening from winter slumber and the first signs of new life.

It was a time of purification and preparation for the coming spring, as well as a time to honor and seek the blessings of Brigid.

Imbolc Traditions and Customs

Imbolc is a time of lighting fires and candles, symbolizing the return of the sun and the warmth it brings.

It is believed that the light of the fires and candles will help guide the way for the returning light and bring protection and blessings to those who light them.

One of the most popular customs associated with Imbolc is the making of Brigid's crosses.

These crosses, typically made from rushes or straw, are woven into a square or circular shape and are hung in homes and barns as a symbol of protection and invoking the blessings of Brigid.

The crosses are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck and abundance.

Another common tradition is the preparation of a feast in honor of Brigid. This feast typically includes dairy products, bread, and honey, which are associated with fertility and the nurturing aspects of Brigid.

The feast is shared with family and friends, and it is believed that by partaking in the feast, one can absorb the qualities of Brigid and receive her blessings.

Imbolc is also a time for divination and seeking guidance for the coming year.

It is believed that the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is thinnest during this time, making it easier to connect with the divine and receive messages and insights.

Various forms of divination, such as tarot readings, scrying, and dream interpretation, are practiced during Imbolc to gain clarity and guidance.

Modern Celebrations of Imbolc

In modern times, Imbolc is still celebrated by pagans and those who follow earth-based spiritual traditions. It is a time of reflection, renewal, and setting intentions for the year ahead.

Many people use this time to cleanse and purify their homes and themselves, physically and spiritually, by performing rituals and using herbs and incense.

Some modern celebrations of Imbolc also incorporate elements of environmentalism and sustainability.

This includes planting trees, cleaning nature reserves, and participating in community garden projects.

These acts honor the Earth and contribute to the renewal and growth that Imbolc represents.

Imbolc Tarot Reading

I will do a collective Imbolc three-card reading, as the first card indicates what you should leave behind.

The second card is your energy focus, and the third is Brigid's message. The first card is the Hanged Man, the second is Two of Swords, and the third is Lovers.

Card One: The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man suggests you relinquish any self-imposed limitations or restrictions holding you back. It's time to release old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve you.

If you want to kick some bad habits, this is the perfect time to do that. Did you eat a bag of potato chips last night, all because it was there? If so, stop buying junk.

That is a habit to kick if that is what you have. I have some thoughts I need to work on to let go.

The best thing to do is to embrace a new perspective and be open to different possibilities.

Card Two: Two of Swords

The Two of Swords encourages you to focus your energy on finding balance and making decisions.

You must weigh your options and consider all sides before taking action. Trust your intuition and seek clarity when you need more clarity. Are you stuck between a rock and a hard place in a particular situation?

If so, the best thing you can do is weigh the pros and cons and do your best to keep your emotions out of it. Focus on your intuition, and you can make that decision.

Card Three: The Lovers

Brigid's message through The Lovers card is about connection and harmony. It signifies the importance of romantic and platonic love in your life.

Embrace the power of love and build strong relationships with others.

This card also suggests choosing based on your heart's desires and true passions. And it is also about commitments.

I hate anyone who makes a commitment but fails to take it seriously. If you are guilty of that, please stop.

Brigid tells you to honor whatever commitment you make unless there is a valid reason to break it.

Therefore, you should let go of any limiting beliefs, focus on finding balance and making decisions, and embrace the power of love in your life.

Trust your intuition and follow your heart's desires.

Imbolc is a festival that celebrates the return of light, the awakening of the Earth, and the promise of new beginnings.

It is a time to let go of the darkness of winter and embrace the coming spring.

Whether through lighting fires, making Brigid's crosses, or participating in rituals and feasts, Imbolc offers an opportunity to connect with the cycles of nature and honor the divine feminine.

It is a time of reflection, renewal, and setting intentions for the year ahead.

So, as Imbolc approaches, take a moment to embrace the light, celebrate the return of life, and welcome the blessings of Brigid into your life.

For a reading, head over to miriamreadstarot.com.