ARTICLES
Essential Oils and the Summer Sun
Summertime – and the sunshine is intense. Great idea to use sunscreen to prevent sunburn and sun damage; most people would consider this a no-brainer. But did you know there are some essential oils that will react with the sun’s ultraviolet rays and create...
Courage and the Pioneering Spirit
On a recent trip through British Columbia to Alberta, I was struck by the pure majesty of our country. From verdant forests to rock bare deserts; flowing rivers and waterfalls to stiff stone mountain ranges; every colour of the rainbow to blackness. As I soaked up...
Garden Wisdom
As the Spring gardens continue to burst forth with life, I am humbled and in awe of the regenerative and restorative powers of Nature. While it restores itself, it also restores me. Form, colour, aroma and textures all come together in a way that is nothing short than...
Messages in the Roses
As we come upon Valentines Day, many people will be choosing roses as a means of conveying their affection and love. In days gone by, elaborate messages were communicated through bouquets, as each plant translated its own vocabulary. Flower colour make a difference...
2017 is Number One in Numerology
Numerology is the study of a cosmic code that uses numbers for its symbols. Each number is a symbol for a truth which can assist with personal awareness and growth. Each number has unique qualities and associations which make for a more in depth understanding of...
Religion, Spirituality and Mysticism
As we enter the Longest Night and await the Birth of the Light after Winter Solstice, it is interesting to note how many religions and spiritual traditions use this time of year for powerful teachings and events. Three levels of understanding await the seeker on...
Rosemary is for More Than Remembrance
The herb Rosemary has been a symbol of remembrance for ions. In herbal folklore, “Rosemary is for Remembering”. It was often used at times of funerals, anniversaries and when soldiers marched off to war. Its aroma has always been uplifting and stimulating; sharp,...
Herbal Delights
The Botanica 2016 conference inspired me to find more ways to use my plants every day for health and well-being. There is still time to enjoy the bounty of the garden – even if the temperatures are cooler and the daylight is shorter. If you have access to fresh...
September and Autumn Musings
As summer comes to a close, we reflect upon that which has happened and consider where we go from here. The outward expression of our energies and activities, so much a part of the celebrations of summer, begins to slow down. Time to gather and draw nearer. The...
Reflections on Caring, Curing and Healing
As this is my 40th anniversary in nursing, I have been reflecting upon what it is to be a nurse. Nursing is still an art and science, but it is not a career for everyone. There is a fine line between helping someone in pain and taking on someone else’s pain. ...
Freedom in the Summer
There is a definite feeling of freedom in the summer air. Watch, listen and smile as you notice signs of freedom around you. You’ll hear it in the roar of the motorcycles out on a road trip. You’ll see it in the carefree way the children ride their bikes and swish...
The Phoenix is Rising
It seems everywhere I look these days, I’m reminded in some way of the story of the Phoenix. In native cultures, the Phoenix is also known as the Thunderbird. Looking back over the historical significance of this image, it is interesting to see how this image is...