Quickening Moon

In February, the nights are cold and we begin to feel a bit of cabin fever. We're tired of being cooped up in the house, and there's a part of us that's just longing for a bit of warmth. This is the season of Imbolc, the days when we know that if we can just hold on for a few more weeks, we might get lucky and see little green shoots peeking out through the snow and slush.

Correspondences:

• Colors: Purple and blue
• Gemstones: Rose quartz, amethyst, jasper
• Trees: Rowan, Myrtle
• Gods: Brighid, Aphrodite, Juno, Mars
• Herbs: Hyssop, sage, myrrh
• Element: Fire

This is a month when new life is beginning, but still lies dormant. Pregnant animals, due in the spring, begin to feel the quickening of their unborn young. The earth itself is quickening, as seeds and bulbs far beneath the soil begin their journey towards the light. We know these things are coming -- and we know also that this is a good month to make plans for the future. We can dream and hope, and set goals for ourselves. Accept responsibility for mistakes you've made in the past, and move on. Magical workings this month should focus on personal achievements and advancement.

Also Known As: Hunger Moon, Ice Moon