Many people think of January as a month to reset and begin new projects. However, January is really more of a time for going inward and taking time to clean and clear and cleanse. This can be a physical cleansing of the home and environment, or it can be an emotional, mental or spiritual cleansing.
For the full moon on January 3, we did a candle spell in my coven for the purpose of cleansing and clearing. Here are a couple of videos describing that spell.
Here is a link to my video on warding and protection which is a good idea after doing a cleansing:
https://youtu.be/32ElpjiIKJc?si=w9_iKLOJuzu5Pl9B
If you follow Chinese astrology, you may know that 2026 is going to be the year of the horse. However, the Chinese new year doesn’t start until February 16 and in January we are still in the year of the snake. What do snakes do? Well, they often shed their skin, and that is what we have been having to do in 2025. We have been shedding or doing away with that which no longer serves us. So in January 2026, we are still in the year of the snake and doing that last bit of shedding or doing away with that which does not serve.
The flowers for January are the carnation and the snow drop. Both flowers speak of purity and renewal. With the carnation flower, of course, you can use your color magic to enhance your environment because carnations come in so many colors. Try making an enchanted bouquet with pinks and reds and yellows with some carnations to add some love and light and cheerfulness during the dark winter months.
The scientific name for carnations is Dianthus. They are named after the goddess, Dianna, a goddess of the moon. You might use them in any ritual dedicated to her.
Snowdrops are a flower often associated with Imbolc. January 31 is Imbolc eve. These little flowers represent purity and renewal. Imbolc is a time of new beginnings and the beginning of the Celtic spring.
Folklore emphasizes that one should never bring snowdrops in the house for fear of bringing in bad luck. I have planted some in my front yard and they have begun to sprout so I should have some snowdrops blooming by the beginning of spring. I can’t wait to see their sweet little blossoms appear! But they will remain in the garden!
Garnet is the January birthstone. Garnet is associated with the root chakra and represents passion as well as protection.
It is said that some of the pomegranate seeds that were gifted to Persephone in Hades turned to garnets.
Since many of us are kept inside by the winter weather in January, it is also a time for sitting quietly and doing needle work of some sort. I am about to start some crochet projects and for a long time I have felt that this type of work can be very magical. I was delighted to discover a book that I am anxious to explore about fiber magick. Perhaps you too, would like to create some fiber magic during the cold period of January. Here is Opal Luna‘s book:
May you spend a renewing time of cleansing and going inward during this magical month of January.
Bright Blessings,
Sarina 🕯️
The Magickal Cottage 