As the wheel of the year turns, we arrive at Ostara, the Spring Equinox, on March 20th – a time of perfect balance when day and night are equal before the light overtakes the dark. This sabbat, celebrated in ancient pagan and Wiccan traditions, marks the renewal of life, fertility, and the awakening of nature.
Named after the Germanic goddess Eostre, Ostara is the inspiration behind many modern Easter traditions, symbolizing rebirth, growth, and new beginnings. With flowers blooming, animals emerging from hibernation, and the earth brimming with potential, this is a time to step into the warmth of the sun and embrace the fresh energy of the season.
The tarot card associated with the Spring Equinox is the Queen of Wands. She beautifully represents Ostara’s vibrant and confident spirit. As a figure of charisma, passion, and creativity, she embodies the self-assurance and motivation needed to initiate this new cycle of growth. Just as nature boldly unfurls its blossoms without hesitation, the Queen of Wands encourages us to harness our inner fire, take inspired action, and acknowledge our personal power.
The equinox is a portal—one that allows us to shift from the introspective energies of winter to the outward expression of spring.
However, Ostara is not just about witnessing external changes, but also recognizing the stirrings of transformation within ourselves. Where in your life are you ready to plant new seeds of intention? Spring is a season of growth and vitality, and as we too are a part of nature, we are invited to participate in the process of the earth’s bloom and renewal.
Here are five ways to celebrate Ostara that honor the tradition of the season in our modern times.
Host an Ostara Gathering – Celebrate the Spring Equinox with friends or family by sharing a meal filled with seasonal foods like fresh greens, egg-based dishes, honey, fruit, teas, baked goods, etc.
Create an Ostara “Spring” Altar –Decorate with flowers, candles, eggs, crystals, statues, photos, etc.
Plant Seeds or Start a Garden – Symbolize new beginnings by planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables. Whether in a backyard garden or in a small pot indoors, nurturing new life aligns with the Spring energy of growth and renewal.
Sunrise or Outdoor Ritual – Connecting with nature doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply standing barefoot in the grass while setting an intention or lighting a candle at sunrise can be a powerful way to align with Ostara’s energy. For others, you may prefer something more involved, such as leaving offerings by a tree or creating an outdoor sacred space.
Creativity and Self-Expression – Channel the vibrant energy of the Spring by engaging in creative activities like painting, writing, dancing, or crafting. This can also include those little fun home projects that make your space feel fresh and alive, such as rearranging furniture, adding new décor, or creating a spring-inspired focal-point.
Spend Time in Nature – Go for a walk in the woods, a local park, or even your backyard. Put your phone on silent and observe the signs of spring—flowers blooming, birds singing, and the warmth of the sun. Breathe in the fresh air and simply ‘be’ for a while. Include others in your plans if you’d like, by inviting a few friends and making it a day out. You can bring a picnic with fresh, seasonal foods and enjoy spending the day in nature surrounded by people you care about.
For my crystal lovers: Spring is a season of renewal and growth. Many crystals resonate with this vibrant energy, but here are my top six suggestions:
*Green Aventurine: Known as the “Stone of Opportunity,” Green Aventurine is believed to attract prosperity and encourage personal growth, making it a top choice for spring’s themes of abundance and renewal.
*Rose Quartz: This crystal embodies love and compassion, gently healing the heart and opening it to new possibilities, aligning with the nurturing aspects of spring and Ostara.
*Sunstone: Associated with the energy of the sun, Sunstone is thought to inspire vitality, independence, and joy, qualities that harmonize beautifully with the invigorating spring season.
*Moss Agate: Most often linked to nature and new beginnings, Moss Agate is said to promote emotional balance, fertility, new growth and fresh starts – It’s a lovely stone that captures the essence of Ostara and the spring season.
*Aquamarine: With its serene blue hues, Aquamarine is believed to connect to the tranquility of water, gently aiding in emotional cleansing and renewal of the mind, body and spirit – central themes of spring.
*Clear Quartz: This crystal is renowned for its ability to amplify energy, clear the mind, and balance the chakras, making it an ideal crystal for Ostara’s themes of renewal, balance and growth.
Happy Ostara everyone! Have a great week! 