Reflections on Imbolc & Practicing Reciprocity in Spirituality

I am starting this post with gratitude. In the past few months, I have been fortunate to learn from some wise teachers. The knowledge and experience I’ve had have catalyzed deep transformation and growth. Thank you to all my wise teachers, especially Birch & Brigid.

Birch, a stunning tree, is also the first letter of the ancient Ogham alphabet (Beith). She is sometimes called “The Lady of the Woods”. She can represent fresh energy and new beginnings. The Birch is one of the first trees to leaf out in the Spring. They also regularly shed their papery bark, revealing fresh growth underneath. Traditionally, the sap has been drunk to cleanse the system. By connecting with Birch during the season of Imbolc, a festival celebrating the first stirrings of Spring. I also have learned to release and renew. I highly suggest if you feel an unexplainable connection to a plant, learn their stories and symbolic meanings. They may be trying to connect with and guide you on your path.

Another beautiful teacher for me has been Brigid, the Celtic goddess of Imbolc. Brigid is a triple goddess with many wonderful attributes. She is the goddess of poetry, creative fire, the forge, and healing. I have been lucky enough to connect with her energy which has fueled my creativity and passion. If you are a poet or artist of any kind and feel inclined, research Brigid and see if you may want to connect. Some ways to connect are: creating a Brigid’s Cross or Brideog with rushes, visiting one of her holy wells, lighting a candle, an offering. If you would like to connect with a goddess, remember to act respectfully.

Now it’s March and almost time for Ostara, the spring equinox. This is the time to start our gardens, begin new projects, and connect with the new life around us. If you’re interested in some ways to celebrate Ostara, check out these posts: Celebrating Ostara: Building a Nest and Celebrating Ostara: Creating an Altar on a Budget.

I want to make a special note to say, in your magical practice, balance what you give and receive. I want to write a full article about this soon. It’s important to remember that the beautiful gifts and knowledge we receive from the earth shouldn’t be a one-sided exchange. Reciprocate what is given. Some ways to do that can be:

Planting a native garden

Volunteering at a clean-up

Creating art that celebrates the earth

Donating to environmental organizations

Making sustainable decisions

Advocacy

& Gratitude always!

I want to say I am not perfect. I don’t live as sustainably as I would like to. But, I always have this concept in the back of my mind when I’m practicing and connecting with the earth and spirits, especially on such a deep and transformative level. Remember to send the love back!

Thank you for reading!