Imbolc arrives quietly, like a breath beneath the soil. Falling at the beginning of February, it marks the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. While winter still holds the land, subtle shifts are already underway, lengthening days, the first birdsong, and brave snowdrops piercing frozen ground.
Rooted in Celtic tradition, Imbolc is closely associated with Brigid, a goddess of fire, creativity, healing, poetry, and fertility. Brigid embodies the returning light and the inner flame that sustains life through cold months. She is both hearth-keeper and inspiration-bringer, reminding us that renewal often begins invisibly.
Historically, Imbolc was a time of blessing the home, honouring sacred wells, and preparing for the agricultural year ahead. It celebrates potential rather than arrival, hope rather than abundance. In a modern context, Imbolc invites us to notice what is stirring within and around us, even if it has not yet taken form.
A Candle and Creative Intention Ritual
At Imbolc, fire symbolises Brigid’s presence and the returning strength of the sun.
Light a single candle at dusk
Sit quietly and reflect on what feels ready to awaken in your life Write one gentle creative intention, not a goal, but a seed
This could relate to creativity, wellbeing, home life, or inner healing. Keep the intention simple and compassionate. Place the written words somewhere visible until Ostara, allowing them to unfold slowly.
You may choose to repeat this ritual weekly, relighting the candle and revisiting your intention with curiosity rather than pressure.
Poem Suggestions
A Celtic blessing-style poem, traditional or contemporary, invoking light, warmth, and protection Poems inspired by Brigid as poet and flame-keeper
A short blessing spoken aloud, such as:
“May the spark of returning light warm what has rested
And guide what is ready to grow.”
You may also wish to write your own short observational poem, just a few lines capturing what you notice in the land at this turning point.
Imbolc Sensory Walk
Wrap up warm and step outside with the intention of looking closely.
Search for snowdrops, buds, or catkins Listen for birdsong or running water Photograph or sketch what you find Notice the quality of light and air
Later, touch the bark of a tree. Is it cold or warming? Rough or smooth? Place your palm there for a moment and let yourself feel rooted and present.
These small acts of attention anchor us in the living world and help us recognise change before it becomes obvious.
Nature Journaling at Imbolc: Tracking Subtle Change
Imbolc is an ideal time to begin (or return to) a nature journal, not to document dramatic shifts, but to practise noticing.
Why subtle noticing matters
When we train ourselves to observe small changes, a minute increase in daylight, a new sound, a softened bud, we develop patience, presence, and trust in slow growth.
Journaling as ritual
Once a week until Ostara, journal by candlelight. Treat the practice as sacred time rather than a task.
Prompt ideas
- What signs of life did I notice this week?
- Where do I feel warmth returning, outside or within?
- What feels ready to be nurtured gently?
You may include sketches, pressed leaves, photographs, or short written reflections. Over time, this becomes a seasonal record of awakening — both in the land and in yourself.
Imbolc reminds us that transformation does not rush. It glows quietly, like a candle in the dark, asking only for attention and care. By honouring Brigid and the first signs of spring, we align ourselves with nature’s promise: that light returns, and life begins again softly, surely, and in its own time.
What is stirring beneath your winter soil? 🌱
Jane Owen 