As spring begins, it's time to rediscover the magic in the mundane. After the quiet slumber of winter, the world begins to stir, and so should we. Spring is an invitation, a love letter from the earth, urging us to open up our senses, to notice, and to remember the inherent magic woven into the fabric of our daily lives.
As spring orchestrates a sensory symphony of painted skies, unfurling tender leaves, and the air alive with birdsong, chirping frogs, and buzzing bees. Let us slow down and meet this awakening with gratitude. Notice the rain's cleansing touch, the sun's soul-warming embrace, and the wind's playful dance through new growth. Scatter seeds as a quiet promise and offer thanks. Record your observation into a whispered prayer of belonging and a testament to spring’s renewing magic. Journal, make art or simply write it on your heart.
Finding Joy and Peace in Nature
- Practice Hanami: Immerse yourself in the spirit of Hanami, the Japanese art of appreciating the ephemeral beauty of flowers. Take time to observe the wild ephemerals, the vibrant tulips, delicate cherry blossoms, and cheerful daffodils. Let their colors, shapes, and scents weave a tapestry of calm around you. As science confirms, spending time in nature, particularly amidst flowers, is a powerful antidote to stress, and a balm for the soul.
- Barefoot Grounding: Walk barefoot, feel the pulse of the earth's rising energy beneath you. Be grounded in this moment. Breathe deeply. Find movement in your body. This simple act strengthens your connection with the earth, reduces inflammation and promotes a sense of calm. This can be made into a daily ritual.
- Water Healing: Dance beneath the rain (or play with morning dew drops), let the water cleanse you, let it remind you of the cyclical nature of life. Collect its droplets in your hands, a baptism of the everyday sacred. Bathe with our Mystic Maiden color changing bath soak ✨
Wild Herbal Allies for Spring's Awakening
Our bodies often crave a gentle reset after the heavier, more introspective winter months. This is where the magic of herbalism truly shines, wild edible allies are emerging all around us!
- Wild Spring Bitters: Embrace the power of abundant wild spring greens like dandelion, chickweed, hairy bittercress and purple deadnettle. These plants, often considered "weeds," are potent allies in awakening our digestive systems and stimulating detoxification. Once you know how to identify these, you will begin to see them all around you. They are nutrient-dense and can help ward off spring illnesses. Their slightly bitter taste helps kickstart our metabolism, encouraging the body to release accumulated toxins and embrace the lightness of spring. Consider incorporating them into salads, pesto, teas, or tinctures.
- Dandelion Vinegar: Dandelion is a globally abundant plant and a nutritional powerhouse. Its greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, supporting everything from eye health to strong bones. The bitter compounds in dandelion are fantastic for liver detoxification and digestion, while its roots feed your gut with prebiotic fiber. Plus, it's anti-inflammatory, helps regulate blood sugar, and supports cardiovascular health. Turn this "weed" into a culinary and wellness treasure! Make dandelion vinegar for delicious salads and marinades, add it to drinks for a tangy boost, or take a few drops straight for digestive support. The whole plant can be used. Clean, chop and soak to infuse in raw apple cider vinegar for a few weeks, then strain and enjoy.
- Stinging Nettle: Nettles are a spring tonic that offer more than just mineral revitalization; they're a flavorful and nutritious wild green. Cooking eliminates their sting, revealing an earthy, nutty taste. Beyond kidney support, nettles can help relieve allergies, promote hair and skin health, ease joint pain, and boost iron levels. Try nettle soup, pesto, tea, frittatas, or even crispy chips. Remember to forage responsibly, wearing gloves and harvesting young leaves in clean areas. Embrace nettles for a delicious and healthful spring boost.
- Forager's tips: Be safe and sustainable. When you're out exploring, pick your goodies from spots that are clean and wild, away from locations that might be sprayed or near roadsides. Double-check your plants! Be sure you have proper identification and know which parts you are harvesting and using. Let's also be kind to our green friends by only taking what we need so they can continue to thrive in our ecosystems.
- Not much time or space to forage? Our Green Up Tea is a great support this time of year.
Welcoming Spring into Your Sanctuary
Open your windows and let the sweet spring air revitalize your home. Sweep away the winter dust and debris with purpose, making room for the vibrant energy of the season. Take this opportunity to declutter, letting go of items you haven't used in the past year. Clear surfaces and add small bouquets of fresh flowers to bring a touch of spring's beauty inside. Refresh your favorite space, perhaps a tea corner or altar, and prepare a comforting cup of Snow Drop Chai Latte or juicy Cherry Blossom tea. As you watch the steam rise, take a moment to breathe deeply and connect with yourself.
The Magic of Belief
This shift in consciousness transforms the ordinary into extraordinary. That is why believing is truly seeing. When you believe in the magic, you will see it all around you. Embrace the invitation of spring, awaken your senses, and rediscover the spark that resides within and around you. Let this season be a time of holistic restoration, guided by the gentle wisdom of herbalism and the profound beauty of the natural world.
Spring is not just a season; it's a state of mind, a reminder that renewal is always possible. Embrace it, and let the magic unfurl like the leaves in your teacup.
With love, Natalie
P.S. Sift through our Spring Collection to find more tools for self care to support you this season. Always made in small batches by the hands of our caring team.
Find guidance & Inspiration in our upcoming class Intro to Art Journaling by Grace Jones
