Ostara: Traditions, Rituals, and Herbs for the Pagan Holiday

by Marissa RanahanThe arrival of March comes with the promise of spring. As we mark the beginning of the new season, many of us celebrate Ostara’s rejuvenating energy. What is the History of Ostara?​Little is known about the origins of Ostara. According to some historians, Ostara is an ancient Saxon and Celtic holiday celebrating Eostra, the fertility goddess. Many pagans believe Ostara symbolizes the day where Mother Earth and the Sun God were married. To honor this belief, pagans will make offerings to the sun and earth as a symbol of their sacred union. How Can I Celebrate Ostara?Depending on your spiritual practice, there are many ways to celebrate Ostara. Below are a few ideas to help you get started: Decorate Your Ostara Altar. The best way to decorate your altar is to use mementos that represent the spring season—especially those with bright colors. This includes spring flowers (such as tulips), stuffed rabbits, and dyed eggs. Another popular choice is to include seeds you’re going to plant during this time so they can be blessed by the holiday. Practice an Earth Meditation. Ostara is all about connecting with the new season. Practicing an earth meditation outside is the perfect way to connect with Mother Nature. To do this, find a quiet spot (the woods is preferred) and listen to the noises around you. Take in the sound of the birds, trees, and spring air. Bless Your Garden. Ostara is the time for planting new seeds. To evoke a healthy harvest, try saying this blessing over your garden beds: The earth is cool and dark, and far below, new life begins. May the soil be blessed with fertility and abundance, with rains of life-giving water, with the heat of the sun, with the energy of the raw earth. May the soil be blessed as the womb of the land becomes full and fruitful to bring forth the garden anew.What Herbs Are Used to Celebrate Ostara?There are a number of herbs used to celebrate Ostara, including:Lavender. Aside from its beautiful smell, lavender represents the ushering in of spring. Those celebrating Ostara typically place lavender branches in vases to make their house smell fresh. You could also use lavender petals in a cleansing bath to welcome in the holiday. Rose. One of the more gentle flowers, rose is a lovely herb to evoke calmness during your ritual. The best way to use rose is by making herbal tea. Sipping on rose tea throughout the day will serve as a gentle reminder of spring energy. You can find a delicious Ostara/rose tea blend here. Lemongrass. Not only will the smell of lemongrass evoke happiness, but it’s also a great scent to set Ostara’s mood. Since lemongrass is a cleansing herb, it’s perfect to use for purifying your altar. Before placing your objects down, clear the space using a little bit of lemongrass oil. Final Thoughts on Ostara​This holiday, take time to honor the spring season. To do so, observe nature’s magical ability of rebirth during this time. Consider contemplating your own rebirthing process—and how you want to transform during the springtime. Regardless of how you practice, remember to honor yourself and the season.  Marissa has been drawn to the world of aromatics and plants since she was a child. Certified in aromatherapy, Reiki, and meditation, she actively changes lives using these healing practices. Additionally, she is a holistic life coach, and works towards helping others heal while simultaneously getting in touch with their spiritual side. As Herbstalk’s Market Manager & Community Engagement Assistant, Marissa draws upon years of experience to oversee vendor relations, event management, and social media outreach.