I believe in magic. I believe in women

On ritual and finding meaning and community in women's circles

It was the eve of Ireland’s first ever public holiday dedicated to Brigid, woman, saint and goddess, and the Moon Fire Circle gathered on the beach in Greystones to mark the beginning of spring, or Imbolc, in the Celtic calendar.

Before the circle, I went for a quick dip in the sea. It was a bracing solo swim in slow rolling waves, with the sun shining behind my closed eyes. Before the sore walk back across the beach with bare feet on frosty sand, I thanked Brigid for the swim.

Around the fire, one of us guided the circle into a wonderful Brigid-inspired meditation. We then shared our intentions as “fiery arrows” for the season ahead, and released them into the fire. And of course we wove Brigid's crosses.

I struggle to connect with Brigid the saint. But the ancient goddess of fire and water, harbinger of spring, source of creativity and fertility, of nourishment, protection and love – this is Brigid for me. I am not from these Celtic lands, but her energy resonates within me.

So much so…