Modern motherwort uses are undoubtedly informed by its history as an herb with rich medicinal potential. Occasionally called a cardiotonic, some of its main uses relate to the reproductive system and the heart, where many people feel and hold a great deal of tension and anxiety. Motherwort also provides nervine support, and because it alleviates these nervous feelings, herbalists use the plant to release the feelings from the physical body as well. Continue reading

Life today is full of unexpected challenges, and for many, the stress of sudden job loss and uncertainty can feel overwhelming. I want to take a moment to acknowledge that no single practice can solve the deep and complex struggles you may be facing—but sometimes, a simple tool can help us navigate the storm with more ease. Shaking is a natural and effective way to release tension, regulate the nervous system, and create a sense of relief, even in difficult times.

 

 In the video, I’ll guide you through a gentle shaking sequence designed to help your body let go of stress and restore balance. I invite you to practice with me and explore the many benefits of this powerful yet simple movement.

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Finding Light in the Winter Blues: Herbal and Self-Care Support for SAD

 

Winter can be a beautiful season of hibernation, quiet reflection, cozy moments, and inward journeys. But for many, it can also bring feelings of heaviness, sadness, or fatigue. If you're feeling this way, you're NOT alone. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or the "winter blues," is a very real challenge for many people. Let’s talk about why this happens, honor your experience, and explore natural ways—including herbs, movement, and lifestyle practices—to support your mood and well-being during this season.

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Low back pain often flares up during the cold winter months, and from a Qigong, Western herbal and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, this is no coincidence. Winter is the season of the Water Element, associated with the kidneys, bones, and the lower back. By nurturing your kidney energy and aligning with the natural rhythms of winter, you can prevent and alleviate low back pain while promoting overall health and vitality.

Learn The Connection Between Winter, Kidneys, and Low Back Pain

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Shatavari, a powerful herb widely used in Ayurvedic medicine, has been revered for centuries for its profound benefits for both men and women's general and reproductive health. In this blog we are focusing on some important aspects of women's health.

Known scientifically as *Asparagus racemosus*, Shatavari translates to "she who possesses a hundred husbands," highlighting its traditional use in promoting fertility and vitality. However, the benefits of Shatavari extend far beyond reproductive health.

Let’s explore how this remarkable herb can enhance various aspects of women’s well-being.

 

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Menopause deserves to be honored and celebrated just as much as starting our menstruation and having babies, but the associated symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, can make it challenging for many women to celebrate this season of their lives. 

 

So we search for herbs, wellness practices, and mediations to help us stay grounded in the truth of this experience as one that opens us up to even more profound wisdom and grace than ever before.

 

In the pursuit of holistic well-being during menopause, you may find Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, emerges as a valuable herbal ally. This sacred herb, revered in Ayurveda for its myriad health benefits, holds particular promise for menopausal women.

 

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Perimenopause and menopause mark significant stages in a woman's life, accompanied by hormonal changes that can affect various aspects of well-being. One crucial hormone that experiences a decline during this period is testosterone. While traditionally associated with men, testosterone plays a vital role in women's health, influencing energy levels, mood, and muscle mass. Fortunately, there are natural ways, such as incorporating herbs and Qigong practices, to support and optimize testosterone levels in perimenopausal and menopausal women. Continue reading

Learning to develop heart-centered life/birth/parenting decision-making is an art and a skill that requires cultivation.  Cultivating the full-body-yes feeling leads to living/birthing/parenting authentically and courageously. Continue reading

Wow! Here we are, 2020, in the middle of a global pandemic! Lots of us are experiencing waves of intense emotions and are looking for ways to stay centered in these extraordinary times of uncertainty.  Continue reading

Maria shares her knowledge of the Cardio Tonic class of herbs that offer support for heart health and overall cardiovascular health.  Continue reading