Ostara marks the coming of spring – when the day and night are of equal length – the mid point between the Winter Solstice and the Summer Solstice.
The Ostara Sabbath symbolizes renewal, the awakening of energies, the return of life after winter and fertility. It is celebrated at the time of the vernal equinox, which is usually March 20 or 21. A time of birth and the new. When flowers start to bloom and creatures awaken from their winter slumber.
Spring is coming, nature is waking up from a long slumber, plants are blooming, trees are budding, the sun rises earlier and sets later, temperatures rise slowly, some animals come out of hibernation and others return after a migration.
Also indicating the beginning of the sowing season, this particular day symbolizes above all the perfect balance between shadow and light.
Symbols of Ostara:
Colors: Green, pink, blue
Foods: Eggs, honey, sprouted greens, baked goods, asparagus
Stones: Aquamarine, amethyst, rose quartz
Symbols: Rabbits, eggs, spring flowers , lambs, clover, baskets
Flowers & Plants: clover, daffodils, crocus, tulips
The Goddess Ostara:
Among the Germanic peoples, the goddess of fertility was venerated annually during the month of April, the month with which she is associated.
This goddess is none other than Ostara, who symbolizes the rising sun and the mating season of animals . During this pagan holiday, there were several traditions that have been presented:
- Ring the bells to announce the arrival of spring, and to provoke the awakening of nature.
- Present offerings to Ostara : these are the famous Easter eggs that symbolize reproduction and fertility. They are dedicated to the land to bring their blessing to the harvests of the season.
- Organize spring cleaning , which takes place both physically and spiritually. Indeed, we decorate the houses with the most beautiful flowers of the season to chase away evil spirits and negative waves.
- Finally, some ancient texts are recited . These invocations blessed the places, and purified the atmosphere.
What will you be doing to celebrate Ostara? I will be spending time in the garden, plant some seeds, take photos of the new flowers emerging. I will be taking time to be present and acknowledging the arrival of Spring and Ostara, and also I spent a little time creating the images for this post.