March 20, 2019, marks the Spring Equinox, also known as Ostara. Ostara is a Wiccan or neopagan celebration that honors the earth's change from dark to light. Babies are born, flowers start to bloom and days get longer. There are many ways to honor this time and as always we think it's so important to say thank you to our earth and what it provides for us.

Rituals are a great way to do that. 

MAKE AN ALTAR

According to ThoughtCo. your altar should be colorful and represent items that mark new beginnings. Symbols such as eggs (representing fertility), rabbits,  flower bulbs or crystals like aventurine or peridot (green for new life). Choose your space and add what resonates with you, keeping in mind there are herbs, crystals, and symbolic items that represent Spring. This will be your place to light your candle and say your prayers or meditations. 

MAKE A PASKE TRE OR PASKRIS

This is a traditional Scandinavian way to honor Easter. Find interesting and somewhat sturdy tree branches and place them in a large vase or container. Attach colorful feathers and plastic or hollowed out colored eggs with fishing line. Ingebretsen's blog has a tutorial if you want more of a visual. 

HOST A BRUNCH 

Brunch wouldn't be complete without eggs and they are one of the most prominent symbols of the Spring season, Easter and Ostara. We love deviled eggs and they make a great side dish. Don't forget a dish of greens as well- fresh and light, perhaps even chopped on top of the eggs. A brunch cocktail is essential too. How about a Bunny Mary? Use carrot or orange juice in place of tomato (keep the horseradish!) and garnish with a carrot, keeping the greens on the ends. Here's a recipe from ElleTalk. Here is our favorite recipe for Pho-Inspired Deviled Eggs (pictured below).

DECORATE EGGS NATURALLY

Decorating eggs is a fun tradition. We think it's important to keep it natural. It may take a little extra effort but the colors are beautiful and it's oh so good for our loving earth. Shifting Roots Blog has a DIY to make sensational eggs- colorful too!

POWERFUL STONES OR CRYSTALS

Aventurine is green, and it is thought to bring harmony, balance, and comfort. Meditation with prayer or mala beads can help focus on what you like in your life. If you are embarking on a Spring love, new job or perhaps a move, Aventurine can be your grounding stone. Healed Heart Mala Beads are hand strung and infused with love, $165

ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oils play a large role historically in marking time and events spiritually. Clary. sage is a clearing oil that's fresh and anti-bacterial. Jasmine promotes love and friendship as well as warmth. Mandarin is detoxifying. This blend is a great way to fill your space with clarity and freshness while inviting human connection. Great to use on your body as well. 

 Manifest Love Essential Oil Room Spray, $13 

MEDITATION FOR THE EARTH