Activity: Five Ways to Celebrate Ostara
April hath put a spirit of youth in everything.
Shakespeare, Sonnet XCVIII
Ostara marks the height of early Spring, when the light gathers strength and the world feels newly awake. As the Earth leans closer to the sun, simple rituals can help us slow down and notice the beauty of this in-between season. Here are five gentle ways to celebrate Ostara.
1. Blossom Watch
Take a cue from hanami and seek out the blossoms while they’re here. Pack a simple picnic, sit beneath the pink canopy and enjoy the fleeting magic of the season’s first blooms before they scatter.
2. Sow for Summer
Begin planting for the months ahead. Whether it’s tomatoes on the windowsill, herbs in a pot or a grow-bag on a small patio, sowing now sets the foundation for Summer abundance. Choose good seeds, water mindfully and enjoy the quiet hopefulness of tending something new.
3. Walk the Woods
Woodlands are luminous at this time of year. Bare branches allow sunlight to reach the forest floor, where Spring flowers steadily unfurl. Take a slow wander and notice what’s blooming, snowdrops, wild garlic, the first bluebells, and let the small signs of life ground you.
4. birdsong Mindfulness
At dawn and dusk, the birds are at their loudest. Try a few minutes of mindful listening: close your eyes, breathe deeply and follow the different calls. A simple, restorative way to begin or end the day.
5. Plan a Summer Adventure
Half the joy is in the anticipation. Mark a Summer outing or staycation in your diary, something simple and outdoorsy, and let the thought of it kindle excitement for the lighter months ahead.
