Imbolc Blessings
Blessings as we approach the potent energies of the High Holy Day
Imbolg / Imbolc
which falls on February 1
A solar node on the wheel of the year
which means 'in the belly' in Irish- a word that mirrored the pregnant ewe's this time of year. The evenings are starting to stretch a little, nature begins to stir.
The ground is fertile for planting. And thus the symbolic ritual of 'planting our intentions' is present at this time, as an agreement between our spirit and matter, forging the commitment for the coming year.
Before digging into the rich beauty and ceremony of this ancient holiday, I am happy to announce that my dear sister Ishadai and I have decided to keep registration for our upcoming Year 1 MA'AT Priest + Priestess training open until tomorrow, Jan 31st 11.59pm!
This is the final call to apply. Have questions? See the bottom of the page for the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
The fire festival of Imbolg, Lá Féile Bhríde, is an ancient celebration of the Fire Goddess Brigid.
The fire represents the hearth and the warmth - The Imbolc festivals were celebrations with bonfires on the first of February in honour of the Pre-Celtic, ancient Irish Matron, Goddess Brigid.
She is a member of the Túatha Dé Dannan (peoples of the Goddess Danu), a great Divine Feminine archetype of Spring, who represents the land, magic, fire, fertility, poetry, healing, and a Matron for farmers, artists, craftsmanship, and blacksmithing.
She is considered a triple Goddess.
Art of triple goddess Brigid by Hrana Janto
Last year in Ireland, St. Brigid's Day was officially recognized as a National Holiday and is now of equivalent importance as St. Patricks day.
The Goddess is rising once more!
This is a historic recognition of our beloved ancient Goddess Brigid, who's name means 'Exalted One'. Many of Ireland’s sacred wells and waterways have been devoted to her for millennia.
"Brigid’s holiday, Imbolg, took place on February 1st. During the holiday, offerings such as food or coins were brought to waterways or wells; sites named in Brigid’s honor were especially popular. Those seeking her blessings often asked for healing, but might also ask for protection (often for their household, children, and/or livestock) or inspiration. Goddess Brigid shares numerous characteristics with the Christian saint bearing the same name, St. Brigid of Kildare. The latter is revered as the patron saint of infants, midwives, cattle, dairymaids, and Ireland itself. The connection between the two figures has intrigued scholars for quite some time. Historical evidence indicates that, over time, the saint assimilated many attributes and sacred sites associated with the goddess. Many view these sites as domains of universal sanctity and purpose, believing them to be shared by both the saint and the goddess concurrently. St. Brigid is also referred to as "The Mary of Ireland," and her feast day aligns with the celebration of Imbolc on February 1st."
-Gregory Wright
Though it is considered the first day of Spring in the old world calendar, and the sun has begun to grow day by day, it is still often one of the coldest months of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
Commitment/Sowing the seeds, is the reflected theme of Imbolc.
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In Ancient Egypt, this was known as the 3rd month of Pert, Spring - the Sowing Season, called Pamenot.
This upcoming new Lunar Year, commencing with the new moon on Feb 9/10th, aligns with the Yang Wood Dragon in Chinese Astrology
It’s a radial transformative year, where the stakes are big! The Wood Dragon encourages proactive engagement and the pursuit of positive change.
Balancing ambition with self-care is also key to dragon year, to prevent burnout. Understanding your limits, practicing self-compassion, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance can contribute to sustained energy and well-being throughout the transformative journey.
You want to have space internally for riding the dragon this year, and not get dragged around by it instead.
As it can have many pitfalls and burnouts, it is imperative to commence the dragon year getting organized, de-cluttering your space, and finding resolve and affirmative action for leaning into the inner work that is needing your attention.
What are you envisioning for yourself in this transformative year?
Art of dragon 2024 by Andrew Gonzales
MA’AT Priest / Priestess Training
FAQ
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Q: Can we opt out after 1 Year?
A: It is, of course, your choice if you want to continue after a year of classes. We strive for you, at the end of the year, to have the foundations you need to feel confident with your tools, set of practices and discovered awareness to access your true nature, gifts, and wisdom. We also hope then, at that time, you will want to go deeper with us. But we shall see what has ripened and what is most supportive for you and your path.
Q: When are the classes?
A: Once a week, Thursdays @ 11-1PM PST.
Q: Are the classes recorded?
A: Yes, the classes are recorded and posted in our private student portal for easy access.
Q: What support do we have when we have questions?
A: We want to make sure every student has the support they need as they move through the materials we cover. During live classes there is dedicated time for Q&A. We have reviews of the teachings and practices every 6 months. Also, for those who can not make it to the live classes, there is a community group chat to support discussion and exploration among the students. We are also available for questions.
Q: Payment plan is possible?
A: Yes, there are monthly and/or annual payment plans available. Reach out to us to discuss if you have further questions.
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Learn how to connect and embody energies that support your endeavor into the depths of your being through wisdom teachings and practices. Learn more about tools and resources how to ride this energy of the dragon that is circuitous in its flight as it navigates the magic, the mystic, the 3D world and its reality!
'Emerging' captured by Danielle An