Nature's Resiliency

Life in 2021 may not come with a clear map of our everyday journey. Still, everyone will experience twists and turns from everyday challenges or traumatic events with a more lasting impact. Each change affects people differently, bringing a unique flood of thoughts, strong emotions, and uncertainty.

Many things happen in our lives to disrupt our emotional balance and create thoughts and feelings of stress, anxiety, or sadness. Unresolved negative thoughts remain in the body and can affect every area of our lives, from sleepless nights, poor health, relationship, or financial challenges. Emotional stress is linked to chronic inflammation, lowered immune function, increased blood pressure, and altered brain chemistry.

In the natural world, there are many species that are able to find useful solutions to difficult problems allowing them to adapt more readily to changing environments. We can learn valuable lessons in resilience from nature as we move forward and adapt for the future.

Let's take a look at a forest that can thrive and survive after a forest fire. Typically, species that regenerate by re-sprouting after they've burned have an extensive root system. Dormant buds are protected underground, and nutrients stored in the root system allow quick sprouting after the fire.

This inspires me to be grounded and to be aware of my daily actions, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are the foundations to thrive and survive in this world. A healthy routine of adequate rest, proper nutrition, exercise, and let go of adverse situations can be enhanced by the use of aromatherapy.

The synergy of holistic healing is expressed in different aspects of our daily lives. Below are a few aspects that I have found particularly useful in maintaining good health for my body, mind, and spirit:

• Healthy Organic Nutrition.

• Plant Medicine Allies.

• Exercise/Movement.

• Meditation and Prayer.

• Time for Self-Care.

• Time in Nature.

• The Perspective of Gratitude.

• Right Livelihood.

• Enjoyment of Work.

• Clear Communication and Harmony in my Personal and Professional Relationships.

• Team of Support: professional healers such as massage therapists, nutritionists, energy workers, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and even a holistically-minded doctor/physician.

Aromatherapy Support

Essential oils can be applied in a variety of ways; including diffusion, a nasal inhaler, body oil, and in the bath. A drop or two in your palm with a teaspoon of jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) oil and rubbed on the back of your neck or the chest and abdomen as support at the end of a long day.

Here are a few essential oils that can be incorporated into your day to help manage the everyday emotions we experience.

Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) – Soothes the mind, creating an atmosphere of peace by helping to eliminate anxiety, irritability, and nervousness. Chamaemelum nobile is a wonderful addition to the bath. Noted precaution: Not recommended for use with those that are allergic to ragweed.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – Promotes consciousness, love, peace, and a sense of well-being. Lavender aids verbal expression and helps address fears. Very nice in the bath.

Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) – As a very grounding oil, Vetiver assists an individual in becoming more rooted in life. It is profoundly relaxing and well-suited for anxiety, insomnia, and nervous tension. Can also be used in the bath.