Astronomically, spring begins at the Spring Equinox, usually around the 20th of March, when day and night stand in equal length. Meteorologically, spring starts on the 1st March. And in the old folk reckoning, spring begins when the land says it does. All are valid.
As a hedged witch, I prefer to listen to the land. Snowdrops fade. Crocus starts to push through. Buds swell on hedgerows and tree branches that looked lifeless only weeks ago.
The earth is stirring. Now is an ideal time to stir with the earth and make your own changes.
New Beginnings: Plant the Seed
Literal seeds can go into trays on a windowsill or into freshly turned soil. Even if you do not have space, a pot of herbs, indoor plants, or flowers can help connect you
Even if you only have a small space, a pot of herbs or wildflowers connects you to the outdoors and nature’s rhythms.
Metaphorical seeds matter just as much.
What do you want to grow this year
A skill
A boundary
A new way of thinking
A piece of writing
A healthier routine
This is a simple ritual: plant new seeds and set your intentions or work towards a goal.
Any seeds will do, but you could choose seeds that correspond with your intention or goal. For example:
Bergamot: Good for luck, money, and prosperity.
Calendula/Marigold: attracts success. It increases psychic and spiritual powers and dispels negativity
Holly Hock: Use for abundance and personal growth.
Parsley increases strength and passion. Parsley is extremely uplifting and helps with spiritual growth.
You will need:
- Your seeds.
- compost or soil
- seed trays, or small pots.
- water
The ritual.
Hold your seeds in your hand and think about what you want to bring into your life or achieve. If you wish, you could write down your intentions on a small piece of paper and place it in your soil.
Plant each of your seeds by pressing them gently into the soil, and at the same time, think about how you can achieve what you want to bring in.
Make sure your seeds are covered with soil
Remember to water well and often. As your seeds grow, so can your attention and goals.
Cleansing Rituals: Out With Winter Stagnation
Winter is a necessary season, but it can leave residue. Dust gathers in corners. Air grows heavy. March brings in fresh air, and it is an ideal opportunity to not only cleanse but also declutter and remove things that you no longer need.
Open the windows on a bright day. Let cold air sweep through the house. Physically clean what you have been ignoring. Wash floors. Change bedding. Clear surfaces. Move furniture slightly so you can clean behind it. Stagnation thrives in neglected spaces.
When it comes to decluttering, it’s ok to start small. One drawer. One shelf. One corner a day. Look at clothes you do not wear, sell them or donate them.
If you have an altar, make sure it’s clean, add seasonal blooms, small tokens from the landscape: twigs, moss, early buds.
Kew—Witch’s Garden: Plants in Folklore, Magic, and Traditional Medicine by Sandra Lawrance.
The Celestial Garden: Growing Herbs, Vegetables, and Flowers in Sync with the Moon and Zodiac
Pagan Portals: Celtic Witchcraft: Modern Witchcraft meets Celtic Ways
by Mabh Savage