Plant Teachings: Rose (grief & personal power)

Many clients had shared a tapping into an immense collective grief as they exited out of winter.  Overwhelm, loss, and powerlessness were deeply felt in the ecological, political, and personal domains.  The space was consuming yet difficult to disengage from.

During this time, we called upon the teachings of Rose.  Associated with eros, roses serves not only enhances pleasurable emotions but also enhances the ability to be with painful ones too.  Herbalists use roses as an approachable guide to support in containing the exploration within heart space, deepening authentic connections, and supporting boundary development. 

Why is this relevant in my therapeutic work?  As I explore herbalism in my personal spheres, rose’s teachings inspired the theme of personal power.  Sitting in the most heavy moments with those I work with, I found a pull to explore where we may be giving up our power and how we may be able to take it back.  This could be through shadow work to understand where shame may be working over time, through boundary setting, and even through the gentle watering of hope.  Reflections during this time examined:

What does hope look and feel like?

How does privilege influence our experience of hope? 

What do we find valuable to fight for?

What do we want to do, engage with, or create instead as we turn away from misalignment?

As we venture through difficult times, explore ways you can open to your heart space and yet remain protected.