Imbolc

Source

February 2nd is not just Punxsatawney Phil's day in the sun-or shadow, depending on the year. February 2nd is Imbolc, or Imbolg, an important pagan holiday which shockingly corresponds with the Catholic holiday of Candlemas or the Feast of Saint Brigid. (Gee, I wonder how that happened?)

Going back to the old pagan calendar, this day is about new things. The Bride (Brigid), an aspect of the Goddess, is young and all about new thoughts and inspirations, sweeping out the old and tidying up so new things have the space to be a part of life. It's a day of love and poetry, and of fertility and growth. If you remember, the original date of Candlemas was on February 14th, which, to me, ties in with fertility and love. The Bride brings forth the very first flowers, and her Groom is seen in the sun and the slow lengthening of days.

For us, in this modern world, Spring cleaning is probably in order so our dreams and intentions for the still-fresh year can have space to manifest. If you decide this is a good time for a purging of old things, try to clear your space with focused attention. Be in the moment as you get rid of things. Sometimes it helps to silently focus on the object you're getting rid of and thank it for its service before you take it off to Goodwill. This is a time to clear out old, useless thought processes that hold us back from our true purpose and happiness. If only we could dump those in the trash as easily as the broken toaster!

After you clear your space, fill it with your goals and intentions for the coming year. You don't have to create a lengthy list. In fact, fat lists are counterproductive as they splinter your focus. Make it short and simple, but focus on your desire while leaving room for an even better outcome than the one you're wishing for. You could light a candle for your wish, like you do on a birthday cake. This day is about bringing light back into the world, after all.

Oh, and don't forget the flowers!