‘In The Belly’

Imbolc is traditionally celebrated in my ancestral Gaelic & Celtic roots on February 1 & 2

The etymology of Imbolc from old Irish means “in the belly” referring to the ewes gestation, a promise of a lamb. As women, with wombs, we are creating, birthing, renewing and restoring throughout our lives.

In the spirit of this date I offer some thoughts on feminine traditions from my roots.

Imbolc is important enough that it is a dedicated holiday in Ireland. Brigid, is associated as the patroness, a key saint by many, honored traditionally as the one who brings the gifts of wisdom, poetry, healing, guardianship and is the center of the hearth of the home. Her Gaelic predecessor, Cailleach, supposedly gathered firewood on this date so that the hearth was sunny and bright, burning fires within.

Our first home, our first hearth, is the womb. This sacred vessel has rhythmic cycles, one of our vital signs, as an indication of our wellness, our health. Most of us require deeper understanding and practical care of this vital hearth, this area of feminine mystery, and her routine cycles and flows.

Come in for a “seasonal tune-in” session for yourself and your inner hearth.

“Brigid of the Mantle, encompass us,
Lady of the Lambs, protect us,
Keeper of the Hearth, kindle us.
Beneath your mantle, gather us,
And restore us to memory.
Mothers of our mother, Foremothers strong.
Guide our hands in yours,
Remind us how to kindle the hearth.
To keep it bright, to preserve the flame.
Your hands upon ours, Our hands within yours,
To kindle the light, Both day and night.”