Snow Moon Inner Awakening

In the Northern Hemisphere, this time of year can feel as if the cold will never end. Whether you live in the Northern Hemisphere right now, or are just attuned to the collective energies metaphorically, the invitation is to become aware of the smaller changes that can brighten the spirit and act as a reminder that even the smallest shifts are foreshadows to greener, brighter, days.

We are at the halfway point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. The sun has begun to rise earlier, set later, and is beginning to follow a higher path through the sky. Can you feel the subtle stirring deep beneath the snow-covered surface?

Nature has begun to slowly awaken the forces that live within all beings. Bulbs are beginning to push through the snow-blanketed earth. Tips of tree limbs are beginning to sprout new buds. The gift of the Snow Moon is that of introspection. If you take a pause and go within, you may be able to sense the spiritual meaning of the Snow Moon. Allow this time to be one of subtlety – a slow awakening of what lies just beneath the surface.

Going within, practice examining yourself from a place of taking in the moment through your senses. Let the outer small stirrings of the reawakening land support an inner examination with curiosity. Let the Snow Moon guide you, as you explore your being from the inside.

When we welcome the Snow Moon, we allow ourselves to embrace the stillness and silence of the last stretch of winter. As we pause in the tranquility of the freshly fallen snow… we bask in the mystical realms. Call on this wisdom within.

Beneath the surface of your being, there is a quickening in the subtler realms of the self. Explore what shifts are budding, and the places within that are still in the denser energies of slumber.

It’s easy to get caught in the trap of wanting to leap ahead, generating a forceful feeling from a place of contraction, just to create upward momentum and action. The invitation instead, is to be present and aware of what has already been set in motion within you from the Divine. There is a Divine unfolding with impeccable timing, and there are shifts sprouting within that have been set in motion by a force greater than yourself.

May these inquiries be your North star, bring crystalline clarity to your days in-between our live virtual gatherings, so you can unlock the door to deeper self-awareness and understanding. 

Your Journal Prompts…

Beneath the dense, frigid layers that blanket your being, what buds lie beneath, just waiting to burst forth and bloom?

What would it look like for you to soften your grip ever so slightly, and welcome in a feeling of co-creation?

We’re hoping you can be present with your camera on, as it helps to create a more cohesive space.  FYI… you must be seated with eyes closed to do the belief work, so it’s best to be settled in and undistracted. 

Light a candle… create a sacred space for yourself, and be prepared to be present and dropped in.

Replay

Here is your playlist of heart-felt, personally curated songs, created to support you amidst this month’s energies and unfoldings. 

February Portal Playlist

And if you feel inspired, share your rituals with us here. We’d love to bask in your creations with you. 🙂

Link

We are at the halfway point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. This is when the Gaelic festival of Imbolc is celebrated. The word “imbolc” means “in the belly of the Mother,” because the seeds of spring are beginning to stir in the belly of Mother Earth. 

The spiritual meaning of Imbolc is transformation, purification, and fresh beginnings. It’s also called Candlemas – the celebration of the returning of light, as the sun begins to rise earlier and set later. May we welcome back the light as we navigate this last stretch of the winter portal.

Choose the rituals below that call to you. And if you feel inspired, share your rituals with us in the comeUNITY hub. We’d love to bask in your creations with you. 🙂

Your Rituals…

Around this time of year, many herd animals give birth to their first offspring of the year, or are heavily pregnant. As a result, they are producing milk. This creation of life’s milk is a part of the symbolic hope for Spring. Milk is our very first meal, and holds the frequency of the Great Mother’s comfort and support. This is why cream, milk, and soft cheeses feature heavily in celebrations in Europe this time of year.

Imbolc Milk Bath:

Long soaks in the tub can support the body’s natural detoxification, calm an anxious mind, and relieve tension. And this one is my favorite in the winter because of its hydrating skin benefits and exfoliation – gently shedding the old skin of Winter. 

Whole milk is often used in water rituals to symbolize nourishment and fulfillment. It’s also known to soothe skin and promote healthy aging. 

You can substitute almond or oat milk if you prefer. You can also use coconut milk powder both for its luxurious texture and sweet fragrance, or if you are allergic to dairy. 

Ingredients: 

Make this your own. These are only suggestions. 

• 1-2 Cups Whole milk (raw milk, if you can get it) or substitute 
• 1 Cup Baking soda 
• 1 Cup Epsom salts
• 1 Cup Sea salt 
• A few drops each of lavender, rose, jasmine, and/or frankincense oils
• Optional: Dried petals of rose, lavender, and/or chamomile 

Bless the water with your hands. Hold the intention of nourishment and fulfillment on the deepest levels of your being. Sacredly soak, cleansing your body for at least 20-minutes before thanking the water. 

Plan Your Garden

While too early for planting gardens, this is a time to start thinking about what you want to plant and harvest in the coming seasons…. both literally, and metaphorically. You may want to take some time and plan the garden rotation, or even start planting tiny seeds to sprout indoors and then transfer outside for the coming Spring Equinox.

Go On a Nature Walk

Many plants have already started their upward journey out of darkness. Spring flowers, such as crocuses, daffodils, Hellebore and Iris are starting to show their lovely faces. Go outside and look for signs of spring.

Create or Refresh Your Altar

Gather fresh herbs, flowers, and anything else meaningful to you to adorn your altar. Bring a candle to your altar, as this time of year is very much about light bringing in new light. 

If you feel stressed throughout your day, go back to your alter… physically, or in your mind’s-eye. May your altar be a reminder that everything you do is ceremony.

Light a Fire or Candles

This time of year has traditionally been about welcoming back the light. Light candles around your house or have a bonfire outside in the crisp air. During midwinter, the simple act of lighting a candle becomes a profound ritual – an homage to the returning light. A simple candle flame is a symbol of hope and warmth. Its dancing light echoes the ancient rhythm of Nature’s seasons.

Spring Cleansing Ritual

Cleanse your space with salt or smoke to make room for new energy, and particularly cleaning your hearth or fireplace. Open the windows to let the ever changing winds waft through your home. Or take the literal approach and start early on spring cleaning. Start a donation box to clear out old memories and clutter. Make space in your body and home for the burst of new energy that spring brings. 

Host a Soul-Nourishing Feast

Gather with friends and family. Light lots of candles… or a bonfire. Eat rich stews with lots of root vegetables, creamy cheeses (or dairy substitutes), and warm, nourishing comfort foods. 

Lavender Milk Faery Tea

Oh, the Faeries will rejoice! There’s something incredibly soothing and nourishing about ingesting lavender. Enjoy by a fire or anywhere you please. 

Ingredients:

• 1 Cup Milk (or milk substitute) 
• 1 tsp Honey 
• ¼ tsp Vanilla extract 
• ½ Cup Brewed lavender tea 

Steep your lavender buds or tea. The more buds you use, the stronger the lavender taste will be. Warm a cup of milk on the stove. (Be careful not to boil it, as it will burn.) Once warm, add in tea, honey, and vanilla extract. Pour into your favorite mug or fancy tea cup. Serve with a sprinkle of lavender buds and/or cinnamon on top.