The earth is stirring with life. Slowly, the days are getting longer, and the snowdrops are sprouting out from the desolate winter ground. Spring is here, and I am very excited. I am always in awe at how quickly nature wakes up in the first few months of the year. Yes, it is still extremely cold, but plants and animals are shaking off the sleepiness of winter. And so am I.
Imbolc celebrates the early signs of spring. Although the name of the festival is not fully known, there is a theory that the word ‘Imbolc’ means ‘in the belly’, referring to the lambs about to be born. I love this theory. The year ahead is in the metaphorical belly, waiting to be born and experienced.
For this month's crystal, I have picked Labradorite. This magical stone is said to be connected to the northern lights, holding the power of the Aurora Borealis within. A folktale suggests that Labradorite stones are pieces of the northern lights that have fallen to earth, crashing down in the snowy landscapes of Canada, Norway, and Finland. If you hold a Labradorite crystal up to the light, you can see where this story comes from. As light touches the stone, hues of green and blue are reflected. It is as if the Aurora Borealis is trapped inside the stone, waiting to be unleashed into your life.
Of course, there is a geological reason to explain the wonders of Labradorite, and it is no less fascinating. Labradorite is made up of thin layers of minerals, and as light travels through it, it is diffracted back and forth and reflected back to us in different colours.
Imbolc comes after the darkness of the winter months to bring light and power to the new year. It is a time of setting intentions, starting projects, and sowing seeds for the future. Labradorite, with its flashes of colour and light, reminds us of the potential we have within us. This Imbolc, we can work with Labradorite to embrace our magic.
Labradorite in Magic
Labradorite is associated with mysticism and transformation. It is ruled by the water element, assisting us with introspection and self-awareness. It is said to help us dive deep into our true selves to unleash the sparks of colour and light within. When working with Labradorite, we can unpeel the layers of who we are to figure out in which direction we want our journey to go.
As this cosmic crystal is said to have come from the skies, there is a theory that it can help us to connect with the spiritual world. It may be useful for ancestral or deity work, allowing you to bridge the gap between the seen and the unseen.
Labradorite is often called the Stone of Transformation, which is perfect for Imbolc. As the world wakes up, we are given a chance to change what we want to change and align ourselves with a better future. For me, Labradorite reminds me of my own magic. The magic of wonder and potential that brews within me. With Labradorite by my side, I am able to keep finding awe in the world around me, from the dazzling lights in the night sky to the flowers and plants that bloom every spring, year after year.
Celebrating Imbolc with Labradorite
The year ahead is in the belly, and we can use Labradorite to birth our potential and set intentions for transformation and change. On Imbolc, I plan to create a vision board or letter for 2025, with Labradorite next to me to remind me of my strength and courage. I want to sow the seeds for a great year and find excitement for what is in store. The shine of Labradorite reflects our truth back to us, and I can’t wait to discover more about myself and my path this Imbolc.
By Lou Siday
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