It’s March the Month of Many Changes

The term, Ides of March (March 15) dates back to ancient Rome.  It marked the first full moon of the year in the old Roman calendar. This was also around the time of the Roman New Year, which was linked to the arrival of spring and agricultural renewal.

Foggy sunrise over an evergreen forest

March brings--

·         Longer daylight hours

·         Warmer temperatures

·         Warmer soils

·         Increased soil moisture

All of these are necessary for plants and trees to grow and warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours mean the snow is melting!

Already there are signs of spring everywhere--

·         More birds singing especially in the early morning hours

·         The earliest of wild flowers are blooming

·         Shrubs and perennial plants are breaking free of the earth

·         Some trees (like maple, oaks and willow) start showing leaves and flowers

·         There is more animal activity, and

·         Insects are become active

Plants pushing up through the earth.

Dating back to ancient times, spring has inspired cultures throughout the world to reflect on cycles of life, hope, and transformation. Here are a few examples.

In Egyptian mythology, Osiris, the god of life, death, and rebirth, was closely linked to the annual flooding of the Nile, which brought fertile soil and renewed life to the land. His resurrection symbolized the renewal of life, much like the way spring brings new growth.

In Greek mythology, Persephone, the daughter of Demeter (goddess of agriculture), was taken to the underworld by Hades. Her return in the spring symbolized the rebirth of nature, as Demeter rejoiced and made the earth fertile again. This myth explains the changing seasons and highlights spring as a time of renewal.

In Celtic and pagan traditions Ostara, named after the Germanic goddess Eostre, celebrates balance, fertility, and renewal during the spring equinox. Many symbols, such as eggs, hares, and flowers, represent growth and new life, influencing later Easter traditions.

In Japan, cherry blossoms (sakura) bloom in spring, symbolizing the fleeting nature of life (mono no aware) and the beauty of renewal. Hanami (flower viewing) is a tradition where people gather under blossoming trees to celebrate the season’s transformation.

In China, the Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, welcomes new energy and growth. Families clean their homes to sweep away bad luck, wear red for prosperity, and celebrate with feasts and fireworks. The festival symbolizes letting go of the old and embracing the new, much like nature does in spring.

Celebrate spring! Take a walk and look for signs of the changing season.  Or just find a place to sit for 20 or 30 minutes in the woods and watch the forest around you come to life. Find some time to reflect on the cycles in your life; your hopes for the future and the transformative power of change.

Snowdrops, an early blooming flowers a a spot of color.