Feb 2024: Imbolc (Candlemas)
Originally published on October 3, 2023 -Archived as part of my Seasonal Magic content.
Imbolc (im-bowl-k) is often associated with Saint Brigid, the mother saint of Ireland. Many stories surround this abbess, who founded the abbey of Kildare (Cill Dara). Whether fictional or factual, she is a woman I wanted to honor on this sabbat (holiday).
She is linked to prophecy, healing, wisdom, motherhood, passion, creativity, and fire. Her connection with the sun indicates the return of longer days as we begin to stray from winter. Candles & (bon)fires are strongly associated with this holiday, one of the eight in the Wheel of the Year.
Here in Kentucky, the day is warmer (in the 50s), perfect for opening windows and doors to let in a fresh spring breeze. One can also use salt or smoke (such as lemongrass or sage) to usher in new energy.
As the image shows, milk baths are ideal for celebrating this day and replenishing dry winter skin. In ancient Ireland, this was the time of year when ewes would give birth to lambs and begin lactating. Oimelc is Gaelic for "ewe's milk," from which Imbolc is derived. Although we like certainty and notable dates in the modern world, Imbolc, like Samhain and other sabbats, fire festivals, are associated more with seasons than a specific day.
Imbolc is a day filled with wisdom and reflection on the seeds buried before winter's long, cold sleep. During this time, we should pamper ourselves by nourishing our mind, spirit, and soul, and connecting with the goddess energy and inner light.
Recently, I had an ancestor connect with me during meditation. St. Tuilelaith, pronounced Til-la-la or Tal-lula, is also an abbess Cill Dara. She provided me with valuable information about my Irish heritage. This wise woman crossed to the spirit world on 10 JAN, 882 C.E.. This made this day even more special to me.
On this Imbolc, I honor both of these women. I thank them for their service to Ireland. For St. Tuilelaith, I extend gratitude for the wisdom and the magical life force that runs through my spirit. Tonight, I honor them with a bonfire and candlelight; I honor the wise sovereign woman within me; I respect and honor the wise sovereign woman with you.
Crystals: Citrine, Quartz, Amethyst
Plants: Bay Leaves, Lavender, Lily of the Valley, Snowdrops
Foods: Food, Milk, Soft Cheeses, Bread
Until next time, let your inner compass guide you. 🧭
💫 Tara
© 2023–2025 Tara Palazzolo, True Path Co. All rights reserved. Originally published on Wicked FairyTale® and lovingly updated on True Path Co for accessibility & reflection. This piece is part of the Traveler’s Codex—designed to support your journey of inner growth and sovereignty. Sharing is welcome with proper credit. No reproduction or redistribution is permitted without written permission.