Ostara, Alban Eilir, first day of spring, Vernal equinox....no matter what you call it, today we're talking about the Spring Equinox! Spring brings with it hope for new growth and an abundance of potential. In my part of the world, this is the time of year when the leaves are starting to sprout on the trees, and grass turns from brown to green. The world begins to once again feel warm and fresh with the first glimpses of colorful flowers and creatures returning from hibernation. The equinox approaches and, then the light will overtake the darkness once more and this year I am very, very ready for the return of the light.
The past year was challenging for so many of us and I know for me it was detrimental to my own motivation. I found myself having to look for new ways to connect to the Kindred and the natural world around me. In Neopagan traditions, most spring festivals focused on ideas of fertility and the ever-increasing presence of life in the natural world. I imagine this year may look a bit different, but there are still a lot of ways that we can celebrate the coming spring, even during times of social distancing.
Below are just a few examples:
Take a nature walk. You can wander in your neighborhood or a local park, anywhere you feel like you can connect to nature. Try to look for new life beginning all around you.
Plant something. Even if you don’t have space for a large garden, planting small flower seeds for inside your home can be a wonderful way to feel connected to nature.
Cook a meal, even if it’s just for yourself, using foods that are in season in your region.
Try some spring crafts. Paint a flower, decorate an egg, allow yourself to get creative and bring some color into your décor.
Enjoy some quality time at a bonfire. Whether you can build your own, or visit a local place that allows them, sitting by a fire is a wonderful way to celebrate the warmth of the returning sun.
Wake up at Dawn to welcome the sun into your day and thank it for the many gifts it brings with it.
Start something new. If you’ve really wanted to learn how to do something new, or have a hobby you keep telling yourself you want to try, now is the time of new beginnings, so why not give it a chance.
If you have other ways you like to celebrate spring, I’d love to hear all about them! If you'd like to celebrate with me, check out my Spring Rituals. I hope you all have a wonderful Spring Equinox!