I am an eclectic witch who has undetermined beliefs about the afterlife however i do believe there is a universal transference of energy that i believe to be powered by some sort of higher power. energy cannot be created or destroyed, therefore that energy is source. we can manipulate the transference of energy if we so chose. we can do this in visibly apparent ways and invisible ways.
To say i’ve been practicing for 5 years sounds insane but it is true, I have been steadily collecting knowledge and experience over the last 5 years and i would love to share or help any less experienced people with any knowledge i have.
To be perfectly clear, I am no where near as active as i used to be with my craft. However, with certain events unfolding within my personal life i feel so completely drawn back into my beliefs and my craft. I am skilled at manifesting and candle spells. I draw a lot from tarot, kitchen witchcraft, crystals, color witchcraft, and anything else that o feel particularly drawn to in the moment.
In witchcraft, you might refer to this for things like spiritual jewelry, energy work, osteomancy, or spirit work! This was originally made for people who are researching osteomancy, though!
As an important disclaimer, please only retrieve bones ethically. It's really important that we're respecting the individual those bones come from, and that we're not disturbing the natural environment and communities around us. Animals are living beings too - Please do not disrespectfully hunt, harm, or kill any animal. I tried to choose animals that are easy to ethically source for purposes of this post, at least in my area or areas I've grown up in. Thank you!
How does this guide help with osteomancy?
The energy of an individual may be left behind in their bones (same
as pictures or other artifacts), even long after they’re gone. This energy can not only affect you if you choose to wear the bones, but also your readings! Additionally, many animists believe that the spirits of the animals’ bones you’re throwing are influencing the reading for you, as the bones are used as a connection to their spirits. In this sense, it’s important to understand core traits of the individuals whose bones you’re utilizing, because their energy or personalities (or characteristics in general) may shine through! Each individual is different, but your species does impact who you are, so I hope this helps!
Helloo lovely readers! Today I am continuing my plant profile series. This is a series where I share my research and UPG regarding a plant, or discover a whole new plant. One of the things that I want to incorporate into my practice, is taking a lunar cycle to form a bond with a new plant ally and work closely with it. This means that on or around the new moon, I will pick an herb that I want to work closely with and research its history, folklore and traditional & modern practice. Then during the waxing moon, I will craft and meditate with the plant according to the moon phase. On the full moon, as my bond heightens, I will charge said herb under the moonlight or choose to incorporate it in a big ritual. As the moon wanes, I will craft workings with the herb according to the moon phase. During these moon phases, I will journal in detail how this herb makes me feel and what energies I pick up during these different lunar contexts. For the upcoming cycle, that herb is going to be mugwort. My initial research on the herb will be depicted here.
Names
Latin: Artemisia vulgaris
Folk names: Artemis herb, Artemisia, Felon herb, Muggons, Naughty Man, Old Man, Old Uncle Henry, Sailor’s Tobacco, St. John’s plant, mother of herbs (Mater Herbarum)
Other names: Cronewort, Common wormwood
Plant profile
Gender: Feminine
Planet: Venus
Element: Earth
Deities: Artemis, Hekate
Personal correspondences: Psychic abilities, dreams, astral projection and protection.
Other correspondences: Strength, healing, divination
***Preface warnings***
Mugwort should absolutely not be ingested nor smelled in any shape, way or form by individuals who are pregnant. It can lead to miscarriages. Furthermore, people with diabetes should stay away from mugwort. Mugwort contains the neurotoxin compound thujone, which in high concentrations may lead to seizures and an abortive effect. Please be careful with how much mugwort you use and limit it to either a cup of tea OR as incense in a day, but not both.
Folk uses
Stuffing a pillow with mugwort and sleeping upon it will produce prophetic dreams or aid with lucid dreams. Anointing divinatory tools with a mugwort infusion or oil can aid in divination. Placing mugwort in a bundle above the door will keep negative spirits from entering. This is because doors are liminal spaces that make it easier for spirits—whether benevolent or malefic—to enter. Mugwort can also protect its wearer when carried in a spell bag. Putting mugwort in shoes can help with strength and stamina during long walks or runs. A Roman invocation was used to say this when picking mugwort before sunrise: Tollam te artemisia, ne lassus sim in via. “I take of you, artemisia, lest I grow weary on the road.”
Apart from magical workings, the plant has also been associated with helping treat conditions in women like infertility, irregular menstruation and problems with pregnancy. This is where the name Artemisia might have derived from, as the Greek goddess Artemis was the goddess of childbirth.
Modern uses
In modern times, mugwort is much beloved for divinatory purposes. Teas are made of mugwort and drunk during divinatory work or before astral projection & lucid dreaming. Mugwort incense is burned for the same purposes. This is because mugwort contains thujone, a psychoactive compound that produces an oneirogenic effect, or brings the consciousness to a dream like state. Often this is characterised by an immersive REM state, making it easier for us to access our subconscious mind and receive messages from spirits, deities or our subconscious mind. This is also why it aids in astral projection and lucid dreaming. Regular drinking of mugwort tea can therefore also help enhance and be more in tune with your intuition, to navigate daily life.
Folklore
Mugwort holds a lot of folklore, dating back to ancient Greece. As it has a vast history and folklore, I will try to summarise the most important bits here.
Mugwort was first called Artemisia vulgaris, deriving its name from the goddess Artemis. The first association has already been deducted. However, mugwort has many more associations with Artemis. Despite it being ruled by venus, due to its psychic abilities, its long been associated with the moon too, which touches on the lunar aspect of Artemis. Its silver-green leaves further build upon this association, as Artemis is associated with both silver, as a moon goddess, and green, as the goddess of the wilderness. Hekate was regarded in ancient times as the khtonian Artemis, also being associated with childbirth and a protector of women, therefore mugwort is also associated with Hekate.
It was believed that mugwort would protect from malefic spirits on St. John’s eve, thus gaining it’s folk name as St. John’s plant. This was done by wearing a crown made by its sprays and wearing it on St. John’s eve. St. John’s eve, would be close and similar to Midsummer or Litha, making mugwort a perfect protective plant during this sabbat. During medieval times in the Netherlands and Germany, the believe was that if mugwort is gathered on St. John’s eve (and thus Litha) it would protect against diseases and misfortunes.
Mugwort gains its title as mother of all herbs due to it being held sacred by various cultures and thought to be the oldest of plants. It’s particularly viewed as a plant that offered protection to humans. Before the discovery of hops, mugwort was used to give flavour to beers.
In the pagan Anglo-Saxan nine herbs charm—a charm to heal a wound of some kind—mugwort is one of the nine herbs invoked. The other herbs were chamomile, nettle, fennel, crab apple, plantain, watercress, chervil and cockspur grass or betony.
Harvesting yourself
Mugwort is a weed that you can find in both the city and countryside. Therefore it’s really accessible to harvest yourself! Harvesting mugwort on the full moon or new moon for example, mainly due to its association with the moon, can be a potent tool and ally in your craft. Be sure to ask the plant for permission upon harvesting and give an offering in return. Especially if you plan on working with the plant spirit.
Personal uses
Mugwort is a staple offering to Hekate and Artemis in my practice. I strongly associate it with them. With the upcoming Elaphebolia (6th of march), it’s a perfect offering for the goddess Artemis alongside for example a prayer. I also use mugwort infusion to anoint and bless my divination tools, mainly my scrying mirror and pendulum. When practicing with lucid dreaming or inner journey meditation, I drink an infusion containing mugwort alongside other herbs. I have yet to incorporate it in protection workings, but as I am entering this lunar cycle working closely with it, I am curious to experience its protective effects alongside its other uses. Who knows, maybe I will break a long-distance running record?
Thank you so much for reading this again longwinded post haha. If you have any questions or remarks please let me know!
Hera is the goddess of marriage, women, childbirth, and family. Hera is also the patroness and protectress of married women, presiding over weddings and blessing marital unions. She is the Queen of the gods and one of the 12 Olympians. Hera is known for her jealous rages as much as Zeus is known for his sleeping around. She always takes this rage out on Zeus's lovers, children, and mortals who crossed her. Usually, when there's conflict on Olympus, it's because Zeus and Hera are fighting over the latest "sex scandal turned murder."
BASIC INFO:
Appearance: Hera is typically described as an incredibly beautiful and majestic goddess. She is often depicted as a regal woman with long, flowing hair, a fair complexion, and a commanding presence. She wears a golden crown and holds a sceptor or a lotus branch. She is often surrounded by divine attendants and symbols of her power and authority. Hera's beauty and grace are often compared to that of other goddesses, with some sources describing her as surpassingly lovely and radiant. She is also said to carry a pomegranate in her hand, which symbolizes fertility and motherhood.
Personality: With devotees, Hera is often depicted as a stern but loving deity who expects unwavering loyalty and devotion. She is also known for her generosity and compassion towards women and mothers, but her wrath is something to be feared. Ultimately, Hera's personality is complex and multifaceted, and her devotees must approach her with respect and reverence.
Symbols: pomegranate, white flowers, peacocks, lotus-staff, throne, and diadem
Goddess of: marriage, fertility, childbirth, Kings and Empires, women, family, the sky, heaven, the stars, and the protector of women during childbirth
Culture: Greek
Plants and trees: lily, willow, lotus, poppy, stephanotis, pomegranate, strawberries, cypress, coconut, iris, white rose, apple trees, waterlily, maple trees, and all white flowers
Crystals: amethyst, turquoise, quartz, pearls, garnet, citrine, amber, diamond, and star sapphires
Animals: hawk, peacock, lion, cow, cuckoo, eagles, crane, and snails, crabs, or any other creatures with shells
Practices: fertility magick, marriage and relationship rituals, pregnancy rituals, shadow work, healing, cord-cutting, beauty magick, strength, marital harmony, and domestic magic and home protection
Colours: gold, silver, white, purple, royal blue, and green
Numbers: 2 and 8
Zodiac: Aquarius
Tarot: The Empress, The World, Suit of Cups, and Queen of Cups
Planet: Venus
Days: Friday, Daidala, Heraia, and she is typically invoked for matters concerning family, marriage, and fertility
Parents: Kronos and Rhea
Siblings: Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Hestia, and Demeter
Partner: Zeus
Children: Angelos, Eris, Arge, the Charities, Eleutheria, Ares, Hephaestus, Hebe, and Eileithyia
MISC:
Peacocks: Hera is often associated with peacocks for several reasons. The most common explanation is that the striking and colourful feathers of the peacock symbolize Hera's own beauty and radiance. Peacocks are also known for their pride and vanity, which some see as a reflection of Hera's own traits. Additionally, the peacock's habit of fanning out its tail feathers is seen as emblematic of Hera's own display of power and grandeur. Some also attribute the association to a specific myth in which Hera takes the form of a peacock.
Motherhood and childhood: she is often associated with motherhood and childbirth in Greek mythology because she is the goddess of marriage and the family unit, and she is the mother of many of the Olympian gods. She is also considered the protector of women and children, and is sometimes depicted with the symbol of a child in her arms. Additionally, Hera herself is the mother of several gods and goddesses, including Ares, Hebe, Eileithyia, Hephaestus and a few others. Her role as a mother and as a protector of motherhood is an important aspect of her identity and her place in the pantheon of Greek deities.
Crowns: Hera is often associated with crowns because of her status as the Queen of the gods and the wife of Zeus. In Greek mythology, Hera is often depicted wearing a golden or jewelled crown on her head, which symbolized her authority and power as the queen of the gods. Crowns were also often associated with royalty and divinity, and Hera's crown was a visible symbol of her exalted rank among the gods. Additionally, some myths suggest that Hera was given a crown by Zeus as a symbol of his love and devotion to her.
Gold and silver: in Greek mythology, gold is often associated with the gods and their divine nature, and Hera's crown was often made of gold to reflect her own divine status. Silver is also associated with purity and beauty, and in some myths, it is said that Hera was given a silver mirror by Zeus to symbolize her own beauty and grace.
Family: Hera is famously associated with family in Greek mythology because she is the goddess of marriage and the family unit. She is the patron deity of married women and is often invoked to bless the home and hearth. Hera is also the mother of many of the Olympian gods, and she is deeply protective of her own children and husband, Zeus. Hera's association with the family and married life is a key part of her identity as a goddess, and she is often depicted as a loving and nurturing wife and mother.
Rage: one of the main reasons is her jealousy and possessiveness towards her husband, Zeus. Hera is frequently portrayed as a jealous and vengeful goddess who cannot abide any sign of infidelity or disloyalty from her spouse. This is evident in many myths, such as the story of Io, where Hera turns Io into a cow to prevent Zeus from being with her. Another reason for Hera's association with rage is her protectiveness over her children and her role as the goddess of family.
FACTS ABOUT HERA:
One of her defining characteristics in myth is her jealous and vengeful nature in dealing with any who offended her, especially Zeus's numerous adulterous lovers and illegitimate offspring.
When Hera heard of her loyal, Argus, servant's death she was distraught. To honour Argus, she took his eyes and placed them in the peacock's feathers—her favourite animal. To take her revenge, Hera sent a gadfly—a fly that bites livestock—to bite Lo as she wandered the Earth for eternity, forever lost to Zeus.
She would seek revenge on those who offended her, including poisoning and killing most of the island of Oenone, tricking Semele into her death, blinded the seer (Teiresias), sent the Sphinx to Thebes to punish the King (Laïus), turning Io into a cow, and transforming Callisto into a bear.
HOW TO INVOKE HERA:
One way to invoke Hera is through a meditation, such as the Hera invocation meditation, you can try:
Relaxing your muscles, starting with your bust, chest, and stomach
Breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth
Relaxing your shoulders, arms, elbows, wrists, hands, and fingers
Feeling the relaxation in your head, face, forehead, eyes, nose, cheeks, jaw, ears, skull, and hair
Visualizing roots growing from your feet, legs, and tailbone, deep into the earth.
Then light her candles and patiently wait, even meditate on her energy.
PRAYER FOR HERA:
I call to Hera, Queen of lofty Olympus, dark-eyed goddess, beloved of thundering Zeus, radiant daughter of Kronos and blessed Rhea.
In times of old were you well loved, in Argos and in Samos.
Many are the tales told of you; many are your temples, many are your honours, many are the blessings granted by your goodness.
Wise one, insightful one, you discern and devise the way most fitting to achieve your ends.
Hera, in the clear blue sky we recognize your favor, and in a warm spring rain; in a joyous wedding feast, a constant love, and a harmonious home we know you.
Stately and beautiful goddess, friend of women, friend of marriage, protector of home and family, most lovely and most exalted goddess, I call to you, Mother Hera.
SIGNS THAT HERA IS CALLING YOU:
Encounters with The Empress tarot card: The Empress links perfectly with Hera as the Queen of the Gods, as well as the themes of motherhood and partnership to the Emperor (Zeus). Seeing this card repeatedly may signify that Hera is trying to send you a message or guide you in your life.
Gifted apples: apples were a symbol of love, fertility and abundance in Ancient Greece, often gifted to Hera. If you find yourself receiving apples as gifts or encountering them frequently, it could be a sign of her blessing or encouragement in your pursuit of love, partnerships or abundance.
Encountering peacocks: peacocks are often associated with Hera, as they are her sacred animal. Seeing them frequently could be a sign of her presence or a reminder to embrace your inner beauty and confidence. It may be imagery, in design, or the actual animal you repeatedly encounter.
If you have noticed the weather “feels” exactly how you are, especially when it comes to turbulent moments in relationships or in relation to the tone of a management position, for example, and noticeably so – then this may be a very specific nod.
If you find yourself constantly hearing the name “Hera”, whether it’s in a conversation, on TV or in a book, it could be a sign that she is trying to get your attention.
Feeling drawn to Mount Olympus.
Disconnect from children: whilst not the most positive imagery, if you’re seeing a lot of symbolism and storylines surrounding a mother’s disconnect with her children, it could be Hera sharing that she too struggled with what may have been postpartum depression. This is something that does happen in nature, so it doesn’t necessarily have to be specifically a human situation.
Seeing or hearing more about lions, serpents, cuckoo birds, hawks, eagles, etc.
Dreams about getting married, divorce or widowhood, pregnancy, empowerment, leadership, justice, and power.
Food and drinks: grains, wine, bread, chocolate, pomegranates, apples, honey, milk, fruit (strawberries, pomegranate, etc), water, olive oil, grapes, beef and other meats, nuts, homemade sweets,
White flowers.
Silver or gold jewelry (especially rings).
Peacock or cuckoo feathers.
Cuckoo clocks.
Peacock paintings, statues, or peacock patterns.
Cuckoo bird art or statues.
Cow paintings, statues, or cow print patterns.
Plants and trees: lily, willow, lotus, poppy, stephanotis, pomegranate, strawberries, cypress, coconut, iris, white rose, apple trees, waterlily, maple trees, and all white flowers.
White, royal blue, purple, dark green, grey, and silver candles.
Throne imagery.
Framed family photos.
Crystals: amethyst, turquoise, pearls, garnet, citrine, amber, diamond, and star sapphires.
DEVOTIONAL ACTS:
If you have a romantic partner surprise them with breakfast in bed, a movie, a massage, booking a romantic retreat for the two of you, etc.
Do housework and keep your home clean.
Stand up for women’s rights.
Honour Her children and Her husband Zeus.
Make a playlist of songs that remind you of Her.
Donate and support domestic abuse victims.
Spend time with those you care about and listen to what they have to say.
Try to help others.
Be kind to children.
Reminisce by looking at old photos on your phone or photographs around your house.
Set time aside in your schedule just for your S.O., children, family, friends, etc.
Turn your bathroom into a spa!
Donate and support charities that help aid in ending child hunger and that support women.
Take a long bath with bubbles, soaks, music, candles, wine, etc.
Speak your mind.
Don’t be afraid to speak your mind and let others know what you want and don’t want.
Donate a dress to organizations like Brides for a Cause or Brides Against Breast Cancer or donate to help fund someone’s wedding/wedding dress.
Take care of yourself, your mental health, and treat yourself to something you want.
Pray to Her and talk with Her about what’s going on in your life, any crushes you have, your romantic partner/s, past relationships, children, etc.
Snowdrops may not be the most talked-about flowers in witchcraft, but they hold a very special significance. Blooming only at the start of the year, they symbolize purification, psychic awareness, love and hope (qualities that make them very powerful to spells and rituals.) Snowdrops also represent innocence, renewal, and protection from negativity. They are used as offerings for deities and they are a great addition to magic jars. To keep their energy throughout the year, it’s best to dry them while they’re fresh. :D
Snowdrops are especially meaningful during Imbolc, marking the transition from winter to spring. Closely tied to Brigid, they are often used in rituals as symbols of devotion and gratitude. Many witches turn to them when they connecr with Brigid and when they seek blessings for creativity, inspiration, and healing, welcoming the fresh energy of the season.
In Greek mythology, Persephone, the goddess of spring, had to spend autumn and winter in the underworld with Hades. According to legend, when she returned each spring, she brought snowdrops with her, proof that life was coming back to the world.
Her time in the underworld symbolized death and stillness, as nature withered in her absence. But when she returned, everything started growing again. Snowdrops capture this cycle of death and renewal, representing both the quiet of winter and the return of life in spring.
Magical Uses: innocence, purification, hope, spirit magick and talking with with the dead, new beginnings, acceptance, purity, love, faerie magick, psychic abilities, connecting with water magick, intuition, eternal life, dream work
⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠄⠄⠂⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁
ꨄ︎ The name comes from Greek (Galanthus) which translates to "milk flower."
ꨄ︎ Snowdrops are deeply connected to fae lore.
ꨄ︎ Dried snowdrops placed in sleep bags can promote deep sleep and prophetic dreams.
ꨄ︎ You can purify your home by placing snowdrops in different rooms or walking through your house with the flower.
ꨄ︎ In a Moldovan legend, the Snowdrop was born from an epic battle between Lady Spring and the Winter Witch. As they fought for control over the Earth, Lady Spring pricked her finger, and where her blood touched the snow, it melted, giving birth to a tiny Snowdrop flower. This marked the beginning of her reign over the world.
ꨄ︎ Snowdrops are associated with the dead and can offer comfort to those who are grieving, helping sorrow pass more quickly.
ꨄ︎ They are a dual-natured flower, symbolizing both life and death. Because of this, they are seen as both lucky and unlucky.
officially decided that anyone who tries to divide the lgbt community is a fed. i dont care if you're not actually a fed, if you're causing infighting in a minority community then you're a fed who just isnt getting paid to be one. either apply for a job at the CIA or shut the fuck up
Drying herbs is a simple practice, and there are several methods to choose from depending on the type of herb and your desire use. Here's how I dry my herbs:
1. Drying on Newspaper
2. Hanging Herbs Upside Down
3. Pressing Herbs
4. Drying Small Petals in Pouches
General Tips for Best Results
Use Breathable Cloths: Wrapping your herbs or laying them on a breathable cloth allows air to circulate freely, preventing mold while catching any small leaves or flowers that shed during the drying process.
Timing: Dry herbs as soon as possible after harvesting to retain their potency and fragrance.
Environment: Choose a dry, cool, and ventilated area to prevent mold or mildew.
Labeling: If drying multiple herbs, label them to avoid confusion.
Storage: Once dried, store your herbs in airtight containers away from sunlight and moisture.
Using Dried Herbs
Always check if the plant is safe for use before collecting it. Do not make tea or touch anything with unknown properties. Always clean your plants before drying.
Major Arcana: these are 22 cards, also called the trump cards (ex. The lovers, The Hermit, etc)
Minor Arcana: these are 56 cards, divided into four suits with 14 cards in each suit
The Suits: Wands, Pentacles, Swords, and Cups
Each suit has four court cards, the King, The Queen, the Knight, and the Page
The remaining 10 cards of each suit are numbered Ace-10.
WANDS: Associated with Fire, masculine energy, yang energy, these traits are associated with growth, expansion, personal power. A wand suited card can be taken as a sign of growth or actions being a foot.
SWORDS: associated with the element Air, also has masculine and yang energy . The feelings/experiences of intellect, thinking, logic, communication, and the pursuit of answers are associated with this suit. A sword card can be interpreted as a struggle involved in transforming experience into knowledge. Specifically, the nine or ten of swords can be indicative of worry, stress, and overthinking
CUPS: The element of Water, femininity, and yin energy. The feelings of reflection, reception, emotions, creativity, and intuition are associated with this suit. The physical symbol of the cup can be indicative of the feeling of being able to receive/hold something. This suit can symbolize a person who is intuitive, compassionate, sensitive, and nurturing.
PENTACLES: the element of Earth, feminine and yin energy. Often associated with sustenance, security, and stability. This suit can be indicative of practical matters, such as money, resources, the body and overall financial/work matters.
Numerology Associations
Every practitioner reads the cards differently and personal associations with each card are encouraged for reading tarot! However if you aren’t sure how to feel about a certain card here are the numerology associations for each number in the deck.
ACE: new beginnings, new cycle, a new chance, rebirth— a new opportunity
TWO: duality, balance of polarities (such as the masculine and feminine)
THREE: the mind, body, and spirit. Often seen as a combination of ace (new beginnings) and 2 (initiation), 3 is seen as a sign to ‘go for it’
FOUR: foundation, totality, stability, security, and self discipline.
FIVE: Freedom, instability, change. Suggests excitement, adventure, but also challenges. Also a sign to go for it.
SIX: service and social responsibility, attend to everyday needs, as well as reaping the rewards of your prior planning.
SEVEN: inner life, solitude, and soul searching. Seven is a mystical number, a mix of wisdom and spirituality. Can be indicative of turning inward to discover the meaning of life
EIGHT: abundance, prosperity, worldly power. Eight turned on its side is also the infinity sign.
NINE: humanitarianism, compassion, tolerance, a sign that you have established your life priorities, now it is time to help others/the world.
TEN: ending/beginning of a cycle, a transitional period indicative of a decision to be made.
that’s all for Tarot 101, next I will be going through the meanings/associations of each trump card individually.
Date: February 1st – 2nd
Themes: Renewal, light, fertility, inspiration, purification
Deity Association: Brigid (Celtic goddess of poetry, healing, and smithcraft)
1. Understanding Imbolc
Imbolc is a Celtic festival marking the halfway point between the Winter Solstice (Yule) and the Spring Equinox (Ostara). It celebrates the first signs of spring, fertility, purification, and the returning light. Traditionally associated with Brigid, Imbolc is a time to cleanse, set intentions, and welcome inspiration.
2. Preparing for Imbolc
Declutter and Cleanse Your Space
Do a deep cleaning of your home (similar to spring cleaning) to invite fresh energy.
Use smoke cleansing (sage, rosemary, or incense) to purify your space.
Open windows and doors to let in fresh air and new energy.
Create an Imbolc Altar
Colors: White, red, green, gold
Symbols: Candles, milk, seeds, flowers, Brigid’s Cross, lambs, sun imagery
Herbs & Plants: Chamomile, bay leaf, rosemary, snowdrops, and early spring flowers
3. Traditional Imbolc Rituals
Lighting Candles
Since Imbolc is a fire festival, lighting candles symbolizes the returning sun. You can:
Light a candle in every room at sunset.
Arrange candles in a circle and meditate on the growing light.
Use a red, white, or gold candle to represent Brigid’s presence.
Brigid’s Blessing & Invocation
Invocation of Brigid:
"Brigid, goddess of hearth and home,
Bless this space where I now roam.
With fire and light, your warmth impart,
Renew my spirit, heal my heart."
Leave a piece of fabric outside overnight to absorb Brigid’s blessings, then use it throughout the year for healing or protection.
Water & Milk Offerings
Pour fresh milk or water outside as an offering to Brigid and nature spirits.
Place a small bowl of milk on your altar as a symbol of nourishment and fertility.
Fire & Candle Ritual
Write your intentions or wishes for the year ahead.
Burn them in a fire-safe bowl or fireplace while focusing on renewal.
Meditate on the warmth of the flame, visualizing the return of light and inspiration.
4. Imbolc Feasting & Food
Traditional foods focus on dairy, grains, and warming spices:
Cook on a greased skillet over medium heat until golden.
5. Imbolc Activities
Make a Brigid’s Cross
Weave a Brigid’s Cross from straw, rushes, or paper.
Hang it over doors or hearths for protection and blessings.
Plant Seeds or Bulbs
Start indoor herbs or flowers as a symbol of new beginnings.
Snowdrops, crocuses, or daffodils are perfect for Imbolc.
Divination & Reflection
Use tarot, runes, or scrying to gain insight into the year ahead.
Journal about your goals, creativity, and what you wish to manifest.
Outdoor Nature Walk
Look for signs of early spring: budding trees, returning birds, or sprouting flowers.
Gather natural items (fallen twigs, stones) for your altar.
6. Closing the Celebration
Gratitude Ritual
Thank Brigid and the spirits for their blessings.
Bury or compost food offerings to return energy to the earth.
Snuff out candles (rather than blowing them out) to preserve the magic.
Meditation & Quiet Reflection
Sit in stillness, embracing the warmth of the candlelight.
Focus on inner renewal and the new cycle ahead.
7. Modern Ways to Celebrate Imbolc
Take a warm cleansing bath with herbs like rosemary and lavender.
Donate to a charity (honoring Brigid’s healing and generosity).
Write poetry or create art to invoke creativity and inspiration.
Craft a protection charm using red and white thread.
Final Thoughts
Imbolc is a time of hope, renewal, and inspiration. Whether through fire rituals, feasting, crafting, or quiet reflection, embracing the light within and around you is the true essence of this festival.
Imbolc is usually celebrated between February 1st & 2nd, in the Northern Hemisphere (In Southern hemisphere around August 1).
Imbolc is a fire festival celebrating the home, hearth, and the halfway point between Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox.
Is is the celebration of the return of the light and sun. A great time to honour the coldest days and the arrival of spring.
Imbolc Correspondences
Colours
White
Gold
Silver
Pastel Colors
Herbal
Rosemary
Basil
Bay leaves
Cinnamon
Myrrh
Hay
Chamomile
Angelica
Lavender
Daffodil
Blackberry
Willow
Edibles
Blackberry
Root vegetables
Dried fruits
Stews
Mead
Fermented foods
Grains
Dairy (specifically ewe's milk)
Cider
Herbal tea
Canned foods
Oats
Animals
Deer
Cow
Sheep
Lark
Swan
Bear
Wolves
Groundhog
All burrowing and hibernating animals
Crystals
Gold
Silver
Brass
Amethyst
Moonstone
Garnet
Ruby
Symbols
Candle flame
Seeds
Besom/broom
Brigid’s cross
Serpent
Sheep (due to Imbolc’s association with ewe’s milk)
White flowers
Snowflakes
Flowing water and springs
Sunwheel
Star
Evergreens
Spiritual meanings
Creativity
Awakenings
Introspection
Fresh beginnings
Perseverance
Patience
Renewal
Revision
Healing
Frugality
Self-care
Youth
Scents
Cinnamon
Rosemary
Basil
Cedar
Mint
Gods / Goddesses / Spirits
Brigid (Celtic)
Aphrodite (Greek)
Bast (Egyptian)
Ceres (Roman)
Cerridwen (Celtic)
Gaia
Hestia (Greek)
Vesta (Roman)
Venus (Roman)
Athena (Greek)
Demeter (Greek)
Persephone (Greek)
Aenghus Og (Irish)
Eros (Greek)
Faunus (Roman)
Pan (Greek)
Cernunnos (Celtic)
Osiris (Egyptian)
Asmodeus (Demon, personal UPG)
Need some suggestions to celebrate? I got you covered.
High energy celebrations and ritual
Astral projection/travel
Divinations
Cord cuttings
Create a Brigid’s Cross
Gardening (best time to start to plant seeds)
Make resolution(s) and goal(s) for the year ahead (I'll fight to the DEATH about my personal opinion that this is a better time for resolutions than New Years itself. Best time for renewal and goal setting)
Ritual to say farewell to winter
Make bread
Spring clean! It’s the best time for it
Low energy celebrations
Starting a manifestation journal
Burning a bay leaf with manifestation on it
Planning in your planner
Lighting a candle in honour
Make a cup of tea
Practice self care
No spoon celebrations
Prayer
Putting on sun lamp
Greet the sun at sunrise
Rest
How you celebrate the holiday does not matter. You can choose to do any activity that feels right. These are only suggestions and remember that you're enough no matter what.
Also please note some stuff is UPG. A great book is Year of the Witch by Temperance Alden for honouring the celebrations and if you wanted to work more seasonally. It's not wiccan based and has plenty of resources for every witch.
