Pagan religious holidays fall in a regular pattern that is linked to the change of seasons. We honor the solstices, the equinoxes, and the points that fall in between each solstice and equinox (cross-quarter days). Right now, we are between two holidays: Imbolc, the cross-quarter day between the winter solstice and the vernal equinox, and Ostara, the vernal equinox itself. It is a time of joy for many of us, particularly those who find the long winter nights challenging. We’re beginning to feel the turn toward springtime. We’re noticing that there’s more light in the evening now. Subtle shifts of the season are starting to appear.
The holidays of the Pagan year can be viewed as seasons in addition to singular events. Although Imbolc was on February first, the season of Imbolc continues to unfold right now. It is a time of preparation and opening to the coming light. It is time to begin to uncurl from our winter sheltering. We are not yet at the moment when we can rush outdoors into sunlight and warmth, but that time is coming. It’s time to get ready.
Many Pagans who garden include our spirituality in the garden planning and preparation process. As a faith path that centers connection with the earth and the other species around us, spiritual or magical gardening is a natural fit. Gardening already brings the gardener into closer contact with the land and ecosystems they interact with. There are a few ways to deepen this practice for even greater connection. Continue reading…
