Today is Setsubun, a Shinto observance of spring. For luck in this belief system, like in many, beans play an important role. Today’s magickal work involves numerology, beans, and a chant. First, lightly roast two cups of beans in a cast-iron pot over a fire outdoors or on a cookie sheet in the oven set at 350 degrees F. The type of beans is of your choosing but should align with your ancestry, preferred recipes, or options available in the pantry. For example, as an African American, I ...
Instead of seeing today as midwinter, let’s see Imbolc as the first day of spring. No matter where you live, look out the window. If it’s snowing, look under the snow and see the sprouting green leaves. Imagine your yard in its springtime splendor. Gather your coven (or work alone) to invoke springtime. Place two candles on your altar, one dark and one light (white or yellow). Light the dark candle and go around the circle, giving thanks for winter’s rest. Use the dark candle ...
Imbolc traditionally begins at sundown on February 1. With many parts of the world still coated in rain or snow, we honor this changing of the seasons with the glowing of a candle flame. For this spell you will need a tealight candle, some sprigs of greenery if you have any available (to help with atmosphere), and a clean space on your windowsill. On the windowsill place the tealight and greenery. Safely light your candle and say: Around the world, winter istaking its last breaths,And ...
For many readers, namely those in the Northern Hemisphere who don’t live in a tropical environment, this midwinter time of year can feel depressing or stagnant. It’s time to dance! First, determine your intention. What do you wish to draw within yourself for the spring and beyond? Then decide on a selection of upbeat music you enjoy. It should have a running time of at least ten minutes. Next, find a time when you will be alone and able to let loose. Finally, like the Lady Gaga ...