Today we are celebrating the Celtic festival of Imbolc.
1st February is known as the first day of spring, with Imbolc, also known as St Brigit’s Day, marking the loosening of winter’s grip. The land’s fertility reawakens & preparations for spring sowing begin.
Brigit, the bright maiden of spring, brings light and the possibility of new growth.
More Imbolc Festival stories & activities can be found in The Childrens Forest by Dawn Casey, Anna Richardson and Helen d’Ascoli.
The Forest at Imbolc
The earth has been sleeping and now begins to awaken. Under the leafy blanket on the forest floor, the shoots are beginning to burst forth. Very gently, pull back the leaves and see the tiny green spears of bluebell shoots. Safely hidden, they arise.
Sap is beginning to rise in the trees, making ready for swelling buds to open as spring draws near. Catkins shine with yellow pollen, and tiny scarlet flowers, hidden treasures of the woodland, appear on the hazel trees.
Elder leaves are emerging. Honeysuckle leaves, soft and furry, open early to seek the pale sun. Wolf-winds howl and bite but blackthorn challenges the cold, blossoming in delicate clouds of white.
Life is stirring in the forest. Take time to be in nature and find the stillness within yourself. Listen to the dreams stirring inside you.
This extract was taken from The Children’s Forest.
The Children’s Forest: Stories & songs, wild food, crafts & celebrations all year round
Dawn Casey, Anna Richardson, Helen d’Ascoli
This book encourages children’s natural fascination with the forest and its inhabitants. The authors have produced an enchanting book where imagination, story and play bring alive the world of the forest. Read more…
