Reclaiming Spring: A Gentle Reflection on Easter’s Roots and Renewal

Spring has always carried the energy of renewal.

The days grow longer, the earth softens, and the cold starts to thaw—not just around us, but within us. It’s a season that quietly reminds us we’re allowed to begin again.

For some, this time is celebrated through Easter. But if you’ve experienced religious trauma, spiritual abuse, or simply no longer resonate with the faith you grew up in, Easter can feel… complicated.

I want to gently explore this season’s deeper roots and offer ways you can reconnect with spring in a way that feels healing and true to you.

The Pre-Christian Roots of Easter

Long before Easter was tied to the Christian tradition, this time of year was marked by ancient spring festivals.

Many believe the name “Easter” comes from Eostre (or Ostara), a Germanic goddess of dawn, fertility, and renewal. Celebrations in her honor would include symbols like:

• Eggs – representing fertility, potential, and the start of new life

• Rabbits – known for their vitality and connection to the earth

• Flowers – especially those that bloom early, symbolizing hope

These traditions honored the cyclical nature of life—death, rebirth, and the slow return to light.

When Christianity spread through Europe, many of these traditions were absorbed and reframed through the lens of resurrection. For some, this blending brings comfort. For others, especially those healing from religious harm, it can feel disorienting.

Spring Rituals That Honor Your Path

If Easter doesn’t resonate or it holds painful memories, you’re not alone. And you still deserve rituals that bring you peace and grounding.

Here are a few ways you can connect with spring on your own terms:

• Create a spring altar with crystals, herbs, candles, or natural objects

• Do a gentle release ritual—write what you’re ready to let go of, and burn or bury it

• Plant something (literally or symbolically) to honor what you’re growing

• Spend time outside, barefoot if possible, and notice what’s coming back to life

This isn’t about “doing it right.” It’s about reclaiming spiritual space—especially if that space was once taken from you.

You’re Allowed to Bloom Again

Spring doesn’t demand perfection. It doesn’t rush. It simply arrives, slowly and surely.

So can your healing.

Whether you celebrate Easter, Ostara, or simply feel the pull of the sun again, I hope you know this:

You’re allowed to begin again.

You’re allowed to believe in softness.

You’re allowed to rise.

Looking for Support?

If you’re on a journey of healing from spiritual or emotional trauma, I’d love to hold space for you.

Root Cause Therapy, somatic healing, and sound sessions are available for wherever you are on the path.

Further Reading & Resources

If you’re curious to explore more about the roots of Easter, spiritual reclamation, or healing from religious trauma, here are a few gentle resources:

• “The Woman’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets” by Barbara G. Walker
  A deep dive into goddess traditions and the symbolism behind many modern holidays.

• “Leaving the Fold” by Marlene Winell
  A powerful resource for those healing from religious trauma or leaving high-control faith systems.

• The Origins of Easter (Article – History.com)
  A short and accessible summary of the pagan and Christian layers of Easter.
  Read here

• Ostara: Rituals, Recipes & Lore for the Spring Equinox by Kerri Connor
  A seasonal guide for those drawn to nature-based spirituality and reclaiming spring in a personal way.