Imbolc

stirring beneath the frost

Poems written between Imbolc and Ostara (31 January – 19 March)

Background

Imbolc: February 1-2.

Imbolc marks the first signs of spring, and the earth stirs with new life. The name comes from a word meaning “in the belly,” a reminder of hidden growth and the quiet promise of renewal. It is a festival of hope, celebrating the lengthening days and the return of light.

This is a time for clearing away the old and making space for what is to come — whether through a bit of spring cleaning, letting go of past burdens, or opening the heart to fresh inspiration. It is a season of beginnings, wishes, and new commitments.

Honouring Brigid

Imbolc is closely associated with Brigid, a beloved figure of both Pagan and Christian tradition. She is linked with healing, poetry, creativity, and the hearthfire. She is also a symbol of fertility, new life, and protection, especially for mothers and children.

At Imbolc, Brigid is often seen in her Maiden aspect — young, fresh, and full of potential, embodying the spirit of new beginnings.

Ways to Celebrate Imbolc

Imbolc can be marked in small, meaningful ways that honour renewal and invite fresh energy into your life:

• Light a candle to welcome the returning sun and celebrate the growing light.
• Do a bit of spring cleaning, clearing clutter from your home or workspace as a symbol of making room for new beginnings.
• Write down hopes or wishes for the coming season, and place them somewhere special, or burn them in a candle flame to release them.
• Create a simple Brigid’s cross or ribbon charm as a blessing for your home.
• Spend time in nature, noticing the first stirrings of spring — snowdrops, birdsong, or the lengthening days.
• Cook a shared meal of dairy foods, grains, or seasonal produce, symbolising nourishment and renewal.

Even the simplest act of reflection, warmth, or creativity honours the spirit of Imbolc and the promise of new life.

Poems

• Mountain musings
  Up high in the mountainsThe dollops of snow on the branches of pineAnd glimpses through tree trunks of crystal sun… Read more: Mountain musings
• The South Downs
  The earth breathes a sigh and we breathe with her. The blades of grass whisper and sing on the breeze,… Read more: The South Downs
• Imbolc
  Expectant as the Earth awakes Promises, renewal, rebirth Life forces stirring beneath our feet Hope comes with returning light As… Read more: Imbolc
• Song of the song thrush
  As I crunch through the frosty grass The winter trees silhouetted against the warm orange glow of the rising sun… Read more: Song of the song thrush
• Sand Martins
  Dancing, darting, diving Celebrating their joy of arrival And anticipation of spring As the Riviera sun Warms the hearts of… Read more: Sand Martins
• Water
  Life giving water Eddies, trickles falls and flows Natural gold dust From the tallest trees Their life seeking roots To… Read more: Water
• Oak
  Mighty oak Let me touch And draw your energy To give me strength To be just me Wonderful glorious happy… Read more: Oak
• A lonely tree
  A lonely tree? No, not me For far and wide I can see The spring blossoming almond tree Bright yellow… Read more: A lonely tree
• The beech hedge
  We’ve a new house with an old hedge Slow to leaf and slow to fall So its’ curled and russet… Read more: The beech hedge