WHAT’S INSIDE
The following items are contained in a beautifully designed, eco-friendly keep-sake box:
- High-borosilicate glass teapot
- Large (& re-usable) UV-resistant jar of organic herbs (21 serves)
- Wax-sealed letter of explanation with story
- Writing exercise to be completed over 21 nights accompanied by beautifully designed and eco-friendly paper
- Mindfully crafted music play-list to heighten the ceremonial experience
- Drawstring bag and glass vial of organic, heirloom wildflower seeds.
This is a limited release.
INGREDIENTS & BENEFITS
As a busy mother of three, I found myself caught in a constant spiral of anxiety and grief. I often asked myself, 'how can I exist in a way that doesn’t feel like I am standing in a constant storm?’
And then came the idea for a holistic tea ceremony which I originally made for myself, only to release as a gift for others. I created this for those who are time-poor and wishing there was an easy but beautiful way to slow down and reflect. I have spent years using my skills as a herbalist and writer to create an immersive herbal experience; one that helps you journey to the roots of your feelings and ultimately find transformation. The Meadow draws from somatic psychotherapy techniques, folk herbalism and art therapy in a very unique and highly detailed way. It has been generously crafted with organic herbs for soothing anxiety, restlessness and situational depression. Through the use of music, story-telling, a ritual that includes a reflective writing exercise and the planting of heirloom wildflower seeds, this experience will live on long after it is over. The Meadow helps you examine the old beliefs that are holding you back from experiencing a more grounded way of existing. This combination of contemplation with action has the ability to soothe your restless mind and create a lasting impact on your life.
The Meadow is not just one thing, nor is it just a mindless ‘grab and pour’ herbal remedy. It is a profound experience that’s waiting for you…
Rose
Meditating on the rose, we can clearly see its healthy boundaries: a soft but strong heart that is open yet protected. Rose’s connection with grief may be traced back to ancient days wherein they were symbolically used in funerals and honoring the dead (D’Andrea, 1982). Today roses are often used to soothe and open the energetic heart chakra and for a lack of self-love, vulnerability, broken hearts, and grief (Hardin, n.d.), as well as for emotional shock and depression (Holmes, 2007).
Chamomile
As a nervine, chamomile makes a delicious, soothing tea used for easing anxiety and tension and promoting restful sleep in both children and adults (Hoffmann, 2003). It is thought that the inhalation of volatile oil present in the vapor when drinking tea is partially responsible for the sedative effect; some volatile flavonoids (e.g., apigenin) may bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the central nervous system (Romm, 2017). Chamomile is considered especially beneficial for those who experience anger and impatience when under stress (Wood, 2008).
One clinical trial reported chamomile had a significant anxiolytic effect in patients with mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder (Amsterdam et al., 2009). Another study a few years later found that chamomile may also have antidepressant activity, particularly in those experiencing both anxiety and depression; while the mode of action behind this activity is unknown, it may be independent of the herb’s anxiolytic effects and due to a modulating effect on neurotransmitters (Amsterdam et al., 2012).
Lemon Balm
Due to its mild antidepressant properties, it is especially indicated for digestive upset related to anxiety or depression (Hoffmann, 2003). The antispasmodic nature of lemon balm is thought to stem from its volatile oils citral and citronellal (Chevallier, 2000). Lemon balm has been used to lift the spirits for many centuries, even predating the Middle Ages (Ehrlich, 2011). Truly a balm to the spirits, lemon balm is used to soothe anxiety, nervousness, and depression (Groves, 2019).
Blue Butterfly Pea
In transformation rituals, many make use of its color changing properties by first focusing on where they are in life, what they have learned, what they are grateful for, and what they’d like to change and then squeezing citrus juice, such as from a lemon or lime, into the butterfly pea drink, thus changing its color with the pH change. The transformation aspect of this plant is also highlighted by its name, as butterflies are often symbols of metamorphosis. This plant is considered to possess energetics for protection, purification, and emotional health, all of which speak to its scientific properties of antioxidative, alterative, and mood supportive qualities. In Ayurveda,C. ternateais a classic for easing stress, lightening depression, and gently sedating, demonstrating some of its mood-boosting effects (Mukherjee et al., 2008).
Lavender
Lavender flower bud is a gentle tonic for strengthening the nervous system in the case of nervous debility or exhaustion (Hoffmann, 2003). The sweet spirit of lavender uplifts and balances emotions, eases mild depression and restores strength and vitality, with Rosemary Gladstar (2012) stating that it’s “an herb used traditionally to imbue courage and strength” and “a favorite herb to strengthen the heart and mind in a stressful situation” (p.151). It’s like a mother’s hand on your back, gentle and loving yet strong and supportive. As such, it can also be an ally during grieving and strife.
With its soothing properties, lavender can help address challenging thoughts and emotions during a crisis, ease feelings of heaviness, boost motivation, make waking up easier, and soothe sadness (7Song, 2020). Whether through aromatherapy, herbal teas, or baths, lavender provides a sense of tranquility and emotional balance in difficult times. Lavender essential oil is often carried in herbal first aid kits and used in crisis situations for this reason.
Oat Straw
Oatstraw, is considered one of the best herbs for“feeding”and restoring the nervous system, particularly in times of stress and in the case of nervous system weakness or exhaustion associated with depression (Hoffmann, 2003), overwork, or emotional trauma (Hardin, 2010). Indications include irritability, chronic fatigue, inability to focus, loss of libido, and heart palpitations (Hardin, 2010). Milky oat is specifically indicated for occipital headaches that extend down the spine and into the head (Tilgner, 2009). Milky oat is also specifically indicated for addressing insomnia and soothing nervous system irritation caused by exhaustion or stress (Tilgner, 2009). Oatstraw infusion helps mellow the mood, ease anxiety, combat the effects of daily stress, and resolve sleeplessness.
Stevia
For bringing the sweetness back into your life.