Resilient Hearts: Using Plant Medicine for Emotional Health pt. 1

The idea that our minds and bodies are intimately connected is not new to most of us, though it does run counter to the deeply held beliefs of our modern culture - scientific rationalism, the mechanical nature of the body, technological superiority, allopathic medicine. Science has finally begun acknowledging that “stress” profoundly affects our health, well-being, and longevity, with hundreds of studies emerging to illuminate the undeniable connection between mind and body. In many of the intact wisdom traditions that exist around the world, the belief that our emotional and spiritual health underlies our physical health is foundational to all teachings. 

Luckily, plants and plant medicine offer amazing support to our nervous systems, our feelings and emotional selves, and to our hearts and minds. They are allies in authenticity and developing strength from the roots up. Herbs don’t suppress emotional symptoms, they help us remember how to feel differently and help us move through mental and emotional states, to facilitate integration and to help us grow stronger and wiser through the process.

The focus will be discussing the myriad ways we can reach out to herbs for solace and inspiration. We will be framing herbal medicine from the context of trauma-informed care, inclusivity and accessibility. Plants don’t discriminate, they give freely of their medicine to those of all. This is a space meant to be intentionally welcoming to marginalized folks of all walks, for the plants have much to teach us about finding power where we are and in who we are. 

Topics covered:

> The innate intelligence of our nervous systems and emotional selves - what it means to be sane in an insane world

> How to use herbs to not get stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, grief, worry, fear, or despair

> Some of the best forms of plant medicine for the emotions, heart, and soul, and how to make and use them

> Flower essences, fumigations and aromatherapy, infused body oils, elixirs and cordials, teas and baths

> Native, abundant and accessible plants and trees who offer profound emotional support

> Building relationship with plants as a gateway to deep healing and transformation

Class is a two-part series, though taking only one session is fine. No experience with plant medicine is necessary. Please bring a journal for notes.