Imbolc is a celebration that we love to get behind at Folk Interiors, as we welcome the arrival of warmer, lighter days. It’s a chance to reshift and redesign your home and interior spaces to work for the new season and the new ways it will be used, plus it’s a great chance to declutter and cleanse.
In this journal entry we go into a little more detail about the Imbolc festival and how it is celebrated today, and offer our ideas for how you can make the most of this celebration at home.
If you’re looking for some new pieces to invigorate your space this spring, view our new Spring Arrivals here.
What is Imbolc?
Imbolc is a Celtic pagan festival that marks the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Celebrated around February 1st or 2nd, Imbolc signifies the awakening of the earth and the first signs of spring. It is often associated with the Celtic goddess Brigid and is a time for purification, renewal, and the anticipation of the coming warmer season. *Sigh of relief*
Traditionally, Imbolc involves rituals, feasting, and the lighting of candles to symbolise the increasing light and the banishment of winter darkness.
Modern celebrations of Imbolc vary widely, as individuals and communities may incorporate both traditional and personalised elements into their observances. Here are some common ways people celebrate Imbolc today:
- Rituals and Ceremonies: Many practitioners of modern pagan or Wiccan traditions engage in rituals and ceremonies to honor the changing seasons, express gratitude for the returning light, and connect with the energy of renewal.
- Candle Lighting: Lighting candles is a central aspect of Imbolc celebrations, symbolising the increasing sunlight. Some people also engage in candle divination or use candles to represent specific intentions or wishes.
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Feasting: As with many holidays, food plays a significant role. Seasonal and locally sourced ingredients may be used to prepare meals that symbolise the coming of spring. Dairy products, grains, and seeds are often featured.
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Brigid's Cross: Crafting Brigid's Crosses is a traditional activity associated with Imbolc. These crosses, usually made from straw or rushes, are placed as protective symbols in homes to invoke the blessings of the goddess Brigid.
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Spring Cleaning: Imbolc is a time for purification, and some people take the opportunity to engage in spring cleaning both in their physical spaces and in their personal lives, clearing out the old and making way for the new.
- Nature Walks: Connecting with nature is an integral part of Imbolc celebrations. Taking walks in nature, observing the first signs of spring, and expressing gratitude for the Earth's awakening are common practices.
- Community Gatherings: Some people celebrate Imbolc in group settings, participating in communal rituals, potluck dinners, or workshops focused on various aspects of the season.
A Guide to Decluttering Your Home for Imbolc
As we approach the Imbolc festival, now is the perfect opportunity to declutter and cleanse your home, creating a fresh and revitalised space for the season ahead. Follow our guide to infuse your living space with positive energy and embrace the spirit of renewal.
- Set Your Intentions
Begin by reflecting on your intentions for the coming season. Consider what you want to invite into your life, both physically and spiritually. This could include clarity, positivity, and a sense of renewal. Our collection of NOTEM notepads and stationery are a great place to do this.
- Gather Supplies
Collect cleaning supplies such as eco-friendly cleaning solutions, cloths, bags, and storage containers. Explore our native wood and natural fibre Redecker brushes which are wonderful for this season. Gather any items you may need for purification rituals, like herbs for smoke cleansing, we love burning sage) or essential oils for a ritual bath.
- Declutter Mindfully
- Clothing: Go through your wardrobe and donate clothes you no longer wear. Keep items that bring you joy and make you feel good!
- Kitchen: Declutter your kitchen by throwing away expired items, organising pantry shelves, and clearing out any unused or duplicate utensils. We love our food storage jars and containers for tidying things up.
- Living Spaces: Remove any unnecessary items from living areas. Consider rearranging furniture to create a fresh layout and energy flow.
- Families: Reframing decluttering as being in preparation for a celebration can help to tempt kids to tackle their rooms and say goodbye to any toys they no longer play with.
- Purification Rituals
- Smoke Cleansing: Burn herbs like sage, cedar, or palo santo in each room, allowing the smoke to purify the space. Be sure to open windows to let out all that stagnant energy!
- Ritual Bath: Take a ritual bath with cleansing herbs, essential oils, or bath salts. Envision negative energy being washed away as you soak. Light an essential oil Broste Copenhagen candle and enjoy some mindful minutes.
- Embrace Nature
- Bring in Greenery: Incorporate plants or fresh flowers into your home. This symbolises the awakening of nature and the promise of spring. We have gorgeous new vases to dot around your home.
- Natural Light: Open your curtains and blinds to let in the natural light, and give your windows a clean to allow maximum sunlight to enter your space.
- Gather Symbols of Renewal
- Arrange items on a designated space or table that represent your intentions for the season. This could include seeds, flowers, or images that inspire growth and renewal. Another fantastic activity to do with children!
- Donate and Recycle
- Consider the environmental impact of your decluttering efforts by disposing of unwanted items responsibly: donate, recycle, or repurpose.
- Express Gratitude
- Conclude your decluttering and cleaning process with a moment of gratitude. Thank your home for providing shelter and express appreciation for the positive changes you've made.
We hope you enjoy your revived and cleansed spaces following Imbolc celebrations, be sure to let us know if you do any of these!
Happy Imbolc,
Katy x
