Imbolc, or Candlemas, is the Pagan festival when all the old clutter from the previous year is cleared away, in order to allow new pursuits. Some covens celebrate Imbolc on February 1, others celebrate during the first full moon of Aquarius. Any energies from previous cycles that are still clinging to one's surroundings can impede esoteric work and confuse directions for mundane undertakings. The ritual fire is used to burn all old candles from workings, spells, and any other ritual object that is no longer needed. The vision is to replace it with one's current plans and direction, making sure the hearth is swept clean, first.
