The Slow Stirrings of Spring and Imbolc

As we slowly awaken from the hibernation of Winter, Imbolc in Cornwall, as part of the Celtic tradition, marks the early spring (Feb 1-2), representing the first signs of life, purification, and the return of light. Historically, it was a time for celebrating the Celtic goddess Brigid, focused on fertility, lambing, and the awakening of the land. Modern celebrations often occur, particularly in spiritual communities. 

As one of the Celtic nations, Cornwall celebrated this cross-quarter day between the winter solstice and spring equinox. It signified the start of spring, with rituals to purify homes and land.

As one of the Celtic nations, Cornwall celebrated this cross-quarter day between the winter solstice and spring equinox. It signified the stirring of spring, with rituals to purify homes and land.

This is the perfect time for purification, renewal, and cleansing to welcome warmer days to come. It is deeply linked to decluttering and cleaning as a symbolic, physical "spring cleaning" to remove winter’s stagnant energy, clear clutter, and create space for new beginnings, growth, and light. 

How to incorporate and be inspired by Imbolc

• Renewed Energy: Decluttering during this time is seen as a way to refresh your home, removing old, stagnant energy, and preparing the space for the upcoming season. Focus on areas where clutter has accumulated to remove "stagnant" energy, such as clearing out closets, cleaning under furniture, and clearing surfaces.
  
  
• Ritualistic Cleaning: Beyond just cleaning, it’s a time for cleaning with intent—physically tidying, dusting, and organising while focusing on letting go of unwanted items and thoughts.
  
  
• Energetic Cleansing: Complement physical cleaning with practices like burning candles, (the KARTHA blend is our favourite for this exact purpose) using herbs, or using sound to cleanse the home's energy. Clapping or ringing bells or chimes are simple ways to shift stagnant energy in the corners of rooms.
  
  
• Opening Space: The practice often involves opening windows to air out the home, even if it is cold, to let in fresh energy.
  
  
• Set Intentions: As you clean, consciously decide what you want to let go of and what you want to invite into your life for the coming year. 
  
  
• Preparing for Spring: It serves as a practical, early start to spring cleaning, focusing on making the home a brighter, cleaner, and more intentional space. 

Find our KARTHA range here for all your clearing and cleansing rituals.