Saint Patrick’s Day Shenanigans

Post revised 3/1/2025

Saint Patricks Day 

What comes to mind when you first hear the word St. Patricks? Four leaf clovers, lucky charms cereal, leprechauns? Ah, to find that elusive pot of gold. For little ones the fascination comes with trying to catch the leprechaun. Which reminds me after I hit publish on this post I need to go find our book “How to Catch a Leprechaun”. 

St. Patrick’s Day represents an opportunity to reflect on Irish history and culture.On March 17th many celebrate the day wearing green and looking for rainbows. The day is a day that is to honor a patron Saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. Schools teach about Irish history, religion, and traditions. 

Who Was St. Patrick? He was born in Britain in the 4th or 5th century. He was kidnapped by Irish raiders at age 16 and enslaved in Ireland for several years.St. Patrick became a Christian missionary and returned to convert the Irish to Christianity.He died on March 17th making that a religious feast day in Ireland. In Ireland, the holiday was originally a solemn religious day. Pubs were even closed on March 17 until the 1970s! Cultural Symbols & TraditionsToday, it is a mix of religious observance and lively cultural festivals.

1. The Shamrock ☘️

   • St. Patrick supposedly used the three-leaf shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
   • Today, it symbolizes Irish pride and good luck.
2. Wearing Green

   • Green represents Ireland’s lush landscape, its nickname as the “Emerald Isle,” and Irish nationalism.
   • Legend says wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns, who would otherwise pinch you!

3. Parades and Festivities

   • The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held not in Ireland, but in America (New York City, 1762) by Irish soldiers in the British army.
   • Today, cities like Dublin, Chicago, New York, and Boston hold massive celebrations with parades, music, and dancing.

4. Irish Music & Dance

   • Traditional Irish folk music, often featuring fiddles, tin whistles, and bodhráns (drums), is central to the celebration.
   • Irish step dancing, known for its fast footwork and upright posture, is showcased at parades and festivals.

5. Leprechauns & Irish Folklore

   • The leprechaun, a mischievous fairy in Irish mythology, is associated with gold, rainbows, and good fortune.
   • Stories say leprechauns hide pots of gold at the end of rainbows and play tricks on people.

6. Irish Food & Drink

   • Traditional foods include corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, Irish soda bread, and colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage).
   • Irish pubs serve Guinness (a famous Irish stout) and Irish whiskey.

St. Patrick’s Day is often seen as a fun celebration of Irish culture, but for some, the holiday can bring up unique mental health challenges. While the festivities may appear joyful, the pressure to “celebrate” or to socialize in a certain way can affect people who struggle with social anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. Additionally, excessive drinking, which sometimes accompanies the celebrations, can negatively impact mental well-being and lead to feelings of isolation or anxiety later on.

Self Care on Saint Patricks Day

For those who may feel disconnected from the upbeat nature of the day, it’s important to remember that self-care and setting boundaries are key. Whether it’s choosing to participate in smaller, quieter activities or focusing on personal well-being, it’s okay to celebrate in a way that supports mental health.

Here are some self-care ideas for St. Patrick’s Day that embrace the themes of luck, renewal, and joy while prioritizing serenity and harmony:

Mind & Body Wellness

Take a Green Nature Walk – Spend time outdoors, whether in a park, garden, or forest, and enjoy the fresh air and natural green surroundings.
Sip on a Soothing Herbal Tea – Try a green tea, peppermint, or chamomile blend for a calming moment.
Stretch & Breathe – Do some light yoga or deep breathing exercises to refresh your mind and body.
Luck-Themed Self-Care Spa – Take a warm bath with Epsom salts and essential oils (lavender, peppermint, or chamomile for relaxation).

Creativity & Reflection

Write Your Own “Pot of Gold” Gratitude List – Jot down things you’re thankful for and reflect on the little joys in your life.
️ Create a St. Patrick’s Day Vision Board – Use the theme of luck, renewal, and growth to visualize your goals.
Listen to Calming Irish Music – Traditional Celtic tunes or soft instrumental pieces can be soothing and uplifting.
️ Do Some St. Patrick’s-Themed Coloring – Print a mandala or nature-based Irish design and let your creativity flow.

Nourish Your Body

Eat a Green & Wholesome Meal – Try a spinach smoothie, avocado toast, or a fresh green salad.
Try a New Herbal Remedy – Research and incorporate lucky herbs like mint, chamomile, or dandelion into your day.
Mindful Eating Challenge – Savor each bite of your food, focusing on taste and texture.

Connection & Fun

Check-In with a Friend – Reach out to someone who brings positivity into your life.
Play a Cozy Board Game or Card Game – Something lighthearted and fun to enjoy some downtime.
Plant Something Green – Whether it’s an herb, a flower, or a tiny shamrock plant, connect with nature by growing something.

What sounds most refreshing to you today? ✨

========= The below post was published on March 17, 2019==========

St.Patricks Shenanigans

Food Ideas: Breakfast or brunch of gluten free dairy free pancakes with a bit of green food dye to make them festive. We made this recipe making sure to make it dairy free as well as gluten free.

We actually ended up doing a clean out the fridge night for dinner. Salad and Corn chowder. The corn chowder was made with Almond milk and Earths best spread since 2 of us have to be dairy free.

I learned an interesting tidbit today. Today is also the feast day for Gertrude of Nivelles, who is the patron saint of gardeners and cats. She also took care of travelers, she was a patron for those who had mental illness, recently diseased and also those who had a morbid fear of mice and rats. She had so many worthy causes she should get a bit of recognition on this day too.

Did you do anything special for St. Patrick’s or St. Gertrude today?