Imbolc signals the turning of the sap, returning of the sun and the first signs of Spring in the air. Snow drops are in full flourish and the little yellow primroses are being to brighten up the hedgerows, in another moon’s turn they will be a beautiful blanket on the banks and lawns.
I was able to pay a visit to one of my favourite places on this beautiful sunny 1st of February. This well I have visited many a time to bless the waters of her spring, to give thanks and gratitude to the nature spirits here that guard her so vibrantly. I collect her waters for my altar, to use in the crafting of sacred tools and objects, for activating and anointing and for my sourdough starter. I have offered ceremonies here over the years for healing, cleansing and awakening.
The Lady Agnus from the local Manor of Cothelstone fell in love with this magical spring and had it capped in the 16th century. Whilst it is known as St Agnus Well it is a bubbling spring head lying under that protective stone hut. Dedicated to the sacred feminine, to love, fidelity and purity and it is said that the stream that flows from it is a fairy stream, protected by the Elvin folk, feared by some. There certainly is a potent energy here, I always ask permission to cross the little bridge that leads to the well and offer some coin or shiny gems with gratitude.
It is here that I gather the tussock grass to make my Bridies Cross, refreshed each year to guard the hearth and home.
It was a delight to feel the warmth of the sun on my face and spend the day feeling deeply connected to the life around me. This is a time of renewal and new beginnings, not only are days lengthening as the sun returns, but as the moon starts another cycle we begin a new year in the Tibetan and Chinese calendars. There’s a new energy rushing in to pick us up and carry us forward, I feel the energy of the Wood Dragon augers a dynamic and progressive year with sweeping change that might just knock us off of our feet. But then it’s probably time we learnt to fly š
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