Sky House Herbs

In this episode, I explore the idea of robustness—what it means to stay steady, rooted, and responsive in the face of challenge. From a seasonal and herbal perspective, robustness is a measure of health: not the absence of difficulty, but our capacity to meet life as it is without losing our center.Winter is a time that naturally asks us to slow down, turn inward, and build reserves. Drawing on lessons from nature and community, I reflect on how resilience is shaped through challenge, vulnerability, and connection rather than isolation or hardening.In this conversation, I talk about how robustness can be cultivated through simple practices, relationships, and plant medicine—especially during winter, when our systems need extra support.In this episode, I explore:- What robustness is and why it matters for mental and physical health- How resilience is built by meeting challenge rather than avoiding it- Lessons from nature about strength, adaptability, and seasonal cycles- Community and co-regulation as foundations of collective robustness- Quiet winter practices like candle gazing to help organize thoughts- Singing, humming, and vocal toning to calm the nervous system- Staying connected to nature as a source of steadiness and strengthHerbal allies I discuss for supporting robustness and resilience include:- Licorice root – a deeply nourishing adaptogen for building reserves- Motherwort – a comforting herb for the heart during distressI also touch on nourishment beyond herbs, including sunflower oil, and how fats and oils support the skin, nervous system, and overall vitality during the colder months.This episode is an invitation to think about robustness not as pushing through or toughening up, but as the ability to remain present, connected, and supported—especially in times that feel uncertain or demanding.

Sometimes, the world asks us to hold more than we thought possible. In these changing times, how do we stay rooted, regulated, and connected to our own sense of strength?Welcome to Gentle Fridays. This is a space of quiet gathering, a co-regulatory container for our collective nervous systems. Together, we practice the ancient, mammalian art of finding calm alongside others—through breath, shared silence, and honest check-ins.In this first session, we explore the concept of robustness—the health found in meeting the world with a vulnerable and firm presence. We share simple, grounding practices for daily life: vocal toning for release, candle gazing for a wandering mind, and the protective ritual of body oiling. We also discuss plant allies like motherwort for the heart, passionflower for the unraveling grip, and the elemental medicine of sea salt.We close with a message from the plant spirits, drawing the Sunflower card—a reminder that true leadership and radiance begin within, especially when we feel our light is dim.Join me, Ashley Elenbaas, a clinical herbalist, as we tend to the body, mind, and spirit through plant medicine and shared humanity. This is a practice of resilience, a return to the quiet center from which we can rejoin the fray.In this episode, we explore:The science and soul of co-regulation and nervous system support.Grounding practices for overwhelm: toning, candle gazing (trataka), and body oiling.Herbal allies for the moment: motherwort, passionflower, and sea salt.A community check-in and a plant spirit reading for collective insight.Resources:The book referenced is Consolations by David Whyte.Learn more about my work at Sky House Herb School: http://skyhouseherbs.com/ If this space offered you solace or strength, please subscribe. New episodes arrive each Monday on the main podcast. May you carry a sense of robustness and gentle connection into your week.

Have you ever found yourself asking, “Why am I always cold?”In this episode, I explore coldness through a vitalist and herbal lens, understanding it not as a problem to fix, but as a signal from the body.From a Western herbal perspective, feeling cold can reflect environmental exposure, stress and depletion, lack of nourishment or rest, grief, or a vital force that has grown tired. Rather than forcing warmth, we begin by listening.

In times like these, many of us are carrying more than we realize—in our bodies, our nervous systems, and our hearts. This pop-up livestream is an invitation to pause, gather, and sit with the plants together.I'll begin with a short centering practice, followed by a gentle check-in, and then I'll share a handful of herbs I'm finding especially supportive right now for stress, overwhelm, grief, anger, and exhaustion. These are plants you may already have access to, and I'll speak to them in a practical, embodied way.There will also be space for a few participants to share what they're experiencing so I can offer personalized plant spirit support. I may ask about things like hot/cold or damp/dry patterns, constitution, or invite a brief tongue observation. From there, I'll suggest one to three herbs that may be supportive in this moment.I may also draw a tarot card during the hour as a reflective tool—to offer perspective, grounding, and symbolic guidance rather than prediction.This is not a political discussion or a place for debate. It's a space for presence, nervous system care, and remembering that we don't have to carry everything alone.

Winter asks something very different of us than the rest of the year.In this episode, Herbs for Hibernation (Not Hustle): Reframing the New Year, I invite you to step away from the pressure to optimize, fix, or reinvent yourself—and instead explore winter as a season of maintenance, nourishment, and sacred smallness.

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As the colder months arrive, I love leaning into warm, comforting herbal teas that are simple to prepare yet deeply supportive. In this video, I share some of my favorite quick and effective autumn tea blends that rely on the convenience of tea bags—perfect for those moments when we want herbal wellness without extra preparation.While I often work with loose herbs, I also appreciate the practicality and accessibility of high-quality tea bags, especially during busy fall and winter days. These blends offer nurturing support for the nervous system, digestion, and overall seasonal wellness.

In today's episode, I'm diving into a topic I've been thinking about a lot lately: the deep relationship between our nervous system, endocrine system, and digestive system—and how these three powerful systems work together to shape our mood climate.We often talk about emotions as if they are our mood, but they're not the same. Emotions come and go like shifting weather patterns, while mood is more like the long-term climate of our inner world. In this video, I explore what actually influences our mood, how our physiological systems interact, and why understanding this triad can give us more tools for emotional regulation, mental health, and overall well-being.I also share why the choices we make in the heat of an emotional moment can shape our longer-term mood, and how becoming aware of these patterns can help us cultivate more stability, resilience, and self-understanding.We will focus on three adaptogens which specifically address the mood triangle:- Rhodiola- Tulsi- SchisandraIf you've ever wondered why your mood lingers long after an emotion has passed, or how your body's internal systems contribute to how you feel day after day, this conversation will give you a clearer, more empowered perspective.

As November settles in, I can already feel the buzz of the holidays approaching. Whether you're looking forward to this season or feeling a little overwhelmed, taking a few small steps now can make all the difference in how grounded and joyful you feel when the celebrations arrive.In this episode, I'm sharing five folk wisdom tips to help you prepare for the holidays—starting today. You'll learn how to care for your body using simple seasonal wisdom (like protecting your neck, back, and feet from the cold), easy ways to nourish yourself with warming foods, and some heartfelt herbal gift ideas you can create at home.

In this episode of my Herb of the Month series, I explore Cragaegus spp. Hawthorne, or Hawthorn—a plant that has long stood at the threshold between the wild and the cultivated, the seen and unseen. Known both for its potent heart medicine and its folklore as a protector of sacred spaces, Hawthorn invites us to reflect on what it means to love bravely and to hold healthy boundaries.

In this gifted bonus episode, I invite you to join me in reflection as we cross the threshold into Samhain — the ancient turning of the year, when the veil thins and darkness gently overtakes the light.This spoken meditation is paired with imagery from my garden and the land here in Minnesota, filmed today as autumn unfurls her final colors. Together, we'll walk into the heart of this season — into the fallen leaves, the deep rest of the earth, and the quiet wisdom of the plants who continue to offer their medicine even as the world slows and cools.Through poetry, imagery, and reverence for the natural world, I share my reflections on the mystery, beauty, and ancestral teachings of this time of year. May this offering remind you to rest, listen deeply, and soften into the slower rhythm of the dark season.

In this episode, I explore one of the most fascinating relationships in the body — the gut-brain axis — and how our digestion and mental health are intimately connected. As a clinical herbalist and a practitioner of plant spirit medicine, I've seen how tending the gut can calm the mind, lift the heart, and bring us back into balance.We'll look at the science behind this connection — how the vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, and the gut microbiome shape our mood, focus, and emotional resilience. I'll also share how stress and inflammation disrupt these pathways, and what we can do to restore communication between the gut and brain.

In this episode, “Death and Herbs: 3 Topics to Think About Right Now,” I explore how herbalism, culture, and nature can help us reimagine death—not as something to fear, but as a natural teacher and an essential part of life's cycle.As an herbalist, I've always seen the threads between life, sleep, and death. In this talk, I share how our nightly rest can be a small rehearsal for letting go, how symptoms and illness can be wise teachers, and how creating rituals around death can deepen our connection to life itself.We'll look at death through the lens of spirituality, healing, and culture, considering what it means to celebrate mortality rather than resist it. Together, we'll explore how embracing death can awaken a greater sense of joy, purpose, and reverence for the living world.

Have you noticed how some herbs are suddenly everywhere? Ashwagandha for stress, turmeric shots for inflammation, and milk thistle for “detox”? In this episode, I take a closer look at these three popular herbs — what the research actually supports, what's marketing hype, and how we can use them wisely and safely.

In this episode of Herb of the Month, I dive into the world of Angelica archangelica—a tall, majestic herb celebrated for both its medicinal and magical qualities. I'll share its physical traits, how it grows best, and the many ways it has been used throughout history. From protecting against plague to soothing anxiety, Angelica has long been considered one of the great protectors in the herbal tradition.I also weave in some of my own experiences working with this plant, particularly in supporting family health and children's well-being. Together, we'll explore its role as both a healing ally and a spiritual guardian.

Hi friends, it's Ashley Marie Elenbaas. In this video, I open up about my own personal experiences with hair loss and thinning and share the natural solutions that have helped me along the way. Hair struggles can feel overwhelming, but there are many holistic approaches that support regrowth and long-term scalp health.We'll talk about some of the most common causes of hair loss, including stress, hormonal shifts, low iron, and nutritional deficiencies. I'll also share how daily practices like weekly scalp treatments, herbal teas, oils, and proper nutrition can make a big difference in supporting healthy, strong hair.

Can herbs really make you healthy? My answer is yes… and no.In this video, I explore why herbs alone are not enough to create true health and why I believe our herbal community needs a stronger emphasis on exercise, exertion, and physical discipline. I say this not with judgment or anger, but out of deep concern for how we as herbalists model wellness.Together, we'll look at the role of herbs like adaptogens, nervines, and anti-inflammatories, and how they support the body — but also why herbs can't replace movement, moderation, and nutrition. Historically, health care always included exercise and bodily care as foundational practices, and I believe we need to bring that wisdom forward.

In this episode, I explore the powerful energies surrounding the current eclipse cycle and how we can work with them for growth, clarity, and transformation. I share insights into universal truths, tarot reflections, and herbal allies that can support us in navigating this intense moment in time.—

I was excited to host my newest live session—“Seasonal Reset! What You Need to Know about Late Summer and How to Support a Healthy and Radiant Transition into Fall.” In this livestream, I dove into the subtle shifts from late summer into autumn, offering practical tips and mindful routines to help you stay balanced and vibrant as the seasons change. I explored the seasonal rhythms that affect our energy, skin, and overall well-being, and shared nourishing practices—whether it's adjusting your skincare routine, tweaking your daily rituals, or embracing the changing environment—to support your body, mind, and spirit during this beautiful transition.If you enjoyed this video, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with a friend who could use some seasonal inspiration. And let me know in the comments—what's your favorite way to honor the shift from summer into fall?Join my Year Two Herbal Apprenticeship here: https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/second-year

In this episode of Sky House Herbs, I open up about the ways shock, grief, and trauma affect our hearts, minds, and bodies—especially in the wake of recent tragic events. As a mother and herbalist, I know how disorienting these moments can feel, and I want to share tools that have helped me and may support you, too.Together, we'll explore how our emotions move in waves, why community support is so essential, and the role herbs can play in nourishing and grounding the nervous system. I'll introduce five of my favorite herbal allies for shock and trauma—Bach Flower Essences, Motherwort, Tulsi (Holy Basil), Milky Oats, and Chamomile—and share how they can support you and your family during difficult times.

In this conversation, I share my personal journey with herbal medicine, from the joy I've found in my garden this summer to the ways plants have guided my work and teaching. I talk about the development of my Year Two herbal program, which focuses on clinical herbalism and the importance of building community through our shared love of plants.I also explore some of the most common questions I hear about herbal medicine, including how herbs interact with pharmaceuticals, and why whole plant remedies are often safer and more effective than single extracts. Along the way, I reflect on the deep relationship between plants and people—how herbs can support not only physical wellness, but also emotional healing and personal growth.As we look ahead to the fall season, I share how this time invites creativity, reflection, and connection—with nature, with each other, and with ourselves.If you're curious about herbal remedies, plant consciousness, and how we can grow together through herbal medicine, I'd love for you to join me in this conversation.

In this video, I'll show you exactly how I make a Blue Vervain tincture from start to finish. I'll walk you through how to identify and harvest Blue Vervain safely, choose the right alcohol (and why I love using brandy), and prepare the herb for the most potent and flavorful medicine possible.I'll also share some of my favorite tincturing techniques—like the meditative hand-ripping method—and why I believe the quality of our energy shapes the medicine we create. You'll see how I approach sustainable harvesting, my process for getting the perfect ratio in the jar, and the simple but important step of labeling your tincture.Along the way, I'll talk about the medicinal benefits of Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata), a cooling, anti-spasmodic herb I often use to ease tension, calm the nervous system, and support deep rest. This is more than just a how-to—it's a personal look at the joy of making herbal medicine with intention and connection.In this episode, I share:- How I properly identify and respectfully harvest Blue Vervain- Why sustainable harvesting matters to me- My go-to alcohol for extraction (and why I prefer brandy)- My methods for preparing herbs for tincturing- Tips for getting the perfect ratio in your jar- How I label and store my tinctures for long-term use- Why connecting deeply with the plant transforms the medicine-making processSubscribeStudy with Me! Year Two Herbal Integration and Practice: https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/second-year Links:“Herb of the Month: Blue Vervain” including medicinal uses, dosage, and science: https://youtu.be/FO2tu5pkkAc?feature=shared “Blue Vervain: A Personal Medicine Story”: https://youtu.be/PiqDe9gd1qo?feature=shared 

In this episode, I sit down with herbalist and wellness guide Rachelle Robinett. RH(AHG). to talk about her inspiring journey from the fashion industry to the world of herbalism and plant-based healing. We explore what it means to reclaim the divine feminine through rituals, emotional healing, and connection to plant consciousness.We dive into how nature shapes identity, why rituals should be non-negotiable in our self-care routines, and how plants act as emotional and spiritual allies—especially in urban environments like New York City. This conversation touches on themes of embodied feminism, wellness, and the revolutionary act of slowing down and tuning in.

In this video, I dive into the causes of overwhelm and exhaustion, sharing personal insights on how we can start replenishing our energy and restoring balance in our busy lives. As someone who has struggled with burnout, I explore the importance of prioritizing relaxation, nutrition, and self-care in the face of our modern, fast-paced culture. I also weave in some personal reflections and Tarot insights to help illuminate deeper patterns of energy depletion.Here's what you'll learn in this video:- Overwhelm is a product of our busy culture and it's crucial to understand this in order to make lasting changes.- We need to make unstructured time a priority in our lives—without it, true rest and recovery are impossible.- Nutrition is a game-changer for our energy levels, and understanding its impact on our bodies is essential.- Tarot insights can offer unique perspectives on our state of depletion, guiding us toward more balanced living.- Herbs like marshmallow can support the body's ability to restore balance and replenish energy naturally.- Letting go of old patterns and beliefs is key for new growth and energy renewal.- By making small shifts in how we navigate our busy culture, we can create more sustainable habits.- Self-care is essential for well-being—it's not selfish, it's necessary.I'll also share herbal remedies that can help with energy restoration, including my favorite go-to herbs for deep replenishment. If you're feeling depleted or overwhelmed, this video will give you practical tips and inspiration to make small but powerful changes.

July's Herb of the Month is Blue Vervain or Verbena hastata. This cool, bitter herb is native to wetlands and streambanks across North America. Blue vervain has a long history of use as a nervine relaxant and tension reliever—our ancestors turned to it for everything from calming anxious minds to easing menstrual cramps. I chose blue vervain for the month of July as it speaks to us about release—not only our need to let go of stress and tension but also our invitation to embrace softness and vulnerability.As we move into the height of summer's heat and activity, you might try taking a few drops of Blue Vervain tincture or glycerite to encourage relaxation and hormonal balance.If you want to try Blue Vervain as a bitter fast-working tea, I recommend 

Join me in this episode as I explore the magic of Bee Balm — specifically two of its most common and beloved varieties: Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa. As a clinical herbalist, I love sharing how these vibrant, fragrant plants can support our bodies, minds, and spirits.We'll look at the similarities and differences between these two Monardas, from their mucolytic, antimicrobial, antifungal, and digestive properties to their nervine effects that help ease anxiety and tension. I'll also share a few personal healing stories and offer insights on how the growth patterns of Bee Balm can reflect themes of community and divine timing in our lives.And for a hands-on treat, I'll walk you through a simple, step-by-step guide to making your own herbal infused honey using Bee Balm. Whether you're a seasoned herbalist or just starting your journey, this is a nourishing way to bring more plant medicine into your kitchen and your heart.

In this episode, I'm sharing the top gardening trends for 2025—and why they matter not only for our gardens, but for our hearts, our communities, and our planet. As a clinical herbalist and lifelong gardener, I love looking at how nature-based practices evolve to meet the needs of the moment.This year's trends speak to a deeper desire for sustainable gardening, mental health support, and meaningful community engagement. From mini meadows to vertical gardening, from soil health to repurposed materials, I'll guide you through each of these powerful approaches—and how you can start using them today.Whether you have a full yard or just a few containers, these ideas can bring more life, beauty, and connection to your space.Here's what we'll explore together:- Mini Meadows – A low-maintenance way to support pollinators and rewild your spaces- Companion Planting & Ecosystem Gardening – Let your plants care for each other- Soil Health – The foundation for a thriving, nutrient-rich garden- Repurposed Materials – Reduce waste while creating something beautiful- Smart Water Use – Save water with simple, effective conservation methods- Community Gardens – Growing herbs and vegetables together builds belonging- Wildlife-Friendly Gardens – Invite birds, bees, and butterflies back in- Vertical Gardening – Make the most of small spaces, especially in urban areas- Gardens for Mental Health – Use gardening as a therapeutic, grounding practiceResources:Soil to Spirit Playlist with Ashley Elenbaas - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtGmbdK5tigdaoI6mlsJdkzFSiJxrt7Am&feature=sharedMaking Compost Tea - https://learn.eartheasy.com/articles/the-best-compost-tea-recipe-to-help-your-plants-thrive/Book - “God's Hotel” by Victoria Sweet - https://amzn.to/40LTthw

In this episode, I'm sharing 10 life-changing books that every herbalist, gardener, and nature lover should have on their shelf. These are the books I return to again and again—whether I'm planning my medicinal herb garden, identifying wild plants, or curling up with a beautiful summer read that reconnects me to the heart of herbalism.

In this video, I'm sharing my 5 biggest herbal mistakes—the kind that are a little embarrassing, sometimes painful, and always full of important lessons.

In this episode, I'm joined by land steward, farmer, and ethnobotanist Aleya Fraser for a rich conversation about ancestral wisdom, plant medicine, and the deep connections between land, community, and purpose.We talk about how Aleya's  journey from aspiring medical professional to full-time grower was shaped by a dream and rooted in the teachings of elders. Together, we explore the role of food as medicine, how spirituality shows up in farming and herbalism, and how storytelling helps pass down cultural and plant knowledge through generations.This conversation touches on:- The importance of elders and intergenerational wisdom- Farming as a spiritual practice and form of resilience- The connection between feminine energy and land stewardship- How plants like elderflower carry ancestral stories across cultures- Gardening and herbalism as tools for healing and climate adaptationWhether you're a gardener, herbalist, or simply curious about the intersection of culture, plants, and purpose—this episode offers inspiration and insight into what it means to live in relationship with the earth and our ancestry.

In this episode, I'm sharing some of my favorite medicinal herb pairings from my own garden and exploring the art of companion planting—not just from a gardening standpoint, but also from an energetic and symbolic perspective.Over the years, I've discovered that many herbs don't just grow well together—they thrive in each other's presence. These plant partnerships offer physical benefits like pest control, soil improvement, and immune support, while also weaving a subtle web of metaphysical resonance. When we plant with intention, the garden becomes more than a productive space—it becomes a living, healing relationship.In this video, I walk you through four powerful herbal pairings and why they work on both a biochemical and spiritual level:

In this episode, I invite you into my garden to explore the healing power of three so-called “weeds” that are actually potent medicinal herbs—growing right where they are, wild and wise.These plants have become some of my closest allies in supporting health, especially when it comes to digestion, stress, and overall wellness. I'll share how I use natural remedies in daily life and why I often turn to herbs before reaching for conventional medicine.We'll explore: 

Hi everyone! I'm Ashley Marie Elenbaas, clinical herbalist, and in this Herb of the Month episode, I'm taking you on a deep dive into the powerful and aromatic world of Rosemary. This herb has been cherished for centuries for its medicinal benefits, spiritual uses, and rich cultural significance.We'll explore how Rosemary supports mental clarity, digestion, and circulation, while also discussing its traditional role as a protective herb in rituals and folklore. I also share insights into how Rosemary is used to enhance memory and cognitive function, and how it connects us to ancestral wisdom and remembrance.Whether you're using Rosemary as a tea, tincture, or essential oil—or burning it as an incense to clear energy—this episode offers practical tools, clinical insights, and spiritual reflections to help you work with this herb safely and effectively.In this video, I cover:Rosemary's botanical and energetic profileMedicinal uses for digestion, memory, and circulationIts historical role as a protective and sacred plantRitual uses for cleansing, remembrance, and revitalizationSafety and dosage guidelines, including precautions for pregnancyWhy fresh Rosemary matters for vitality and potency———— MY ONLINE COURSES

In this episode, I invite you into the garden with me to explore what I call “the goddess in the garden”—a reflection on how growing herbs can be a deeply healing and empowering practice. I share my love for three special herbs: rose, calendula (marigold), and lady's mantle, and how each one supports both beauty and wellness, inside and out.We'll talk about what I see as the goddess rebellion—a return to the earth, to simplicity, and to meaningful community connections. I also touch on the science behind gardening and mental health, and how even tending a few pots on a windowsill can bring peace and purpose to your day.Whether you're a lifelong gardener or just curious about growing your own herbs, I hope this episode leaves you feeling inspired to connect more deeply with nature, your own inner wisdom, and the healing beauty of the plants around you.In this episode, I talk about:Gardening as a form of self-care and spiritual connectionWhy rose is one of my favorite herbs for emotional and skin healingThe many uses of calendula for beauty and first aidThe folklore and feminine magic of lady's mantleHow growing herbs can support mental health and reduce stressEasy ways to start gardening, even with limited spaceResources:Series Playlist -  "From Soil to Spirit"  - watch here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtGmbdK5tigdaoI6mlsJdkzFSiJxrt7Am&feature=sharedSeries Playlist  - "The Goddess, Herbalism, and Sacred Symbols" - watch here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtGmbdK5tigd379v87qNELJjygFWn1Dp5&feature=sharedBook, "Benedictaria: The Blessing Way of Southern Italian Folk Medicine" by Gail Faith Edwards - https://blessedmaineherbs.com/products/pre-order-benedicaria-the-blessing-way-of-southern-italian-folk-medicineOrganic Herb Source: Strictly Medicinal Seeds (and Live Plants!) - https://strictlymedicinalseeds.com/———— MY ONLINE COURSES

Welcome to Episode 1 of From Soil to Spirit: A 4-Part Gardening Series with Sky House Herbs!In this first installment, I'll guide you through seven essential herbs to plant right now—Bee Balm, Chamomile, Thyme, Calendula, Nettles, Lemon Balm, and Peppermint. These herbs are not only easy to grow but incredibly versatile as medicines, teas, and culinary allies.But before we dig in, we'll talk about connecting with the land, even if you're in an urban space or a suburban yard. I'll share simple ways to build a relationship with your garden by observing, listening, and honoring the plants and animals already living there.You'll also learn how to set a clear vision for your garden, prepare your soil, and choose the right space based on your personal goals—whether it's a healing garden, a pollinator patch, or your first herb spiral. With a clear vision you can do anything!✨ Whether you're a beginner or seasoned gardener, this episode will inspire you to plant with intention and purpose this spring.

In this episode, I'm wrapping up my Goddess series by diving into the world of the Modern Goddess—what she meant to our Neolithic ancestors and how she still lives in us today. Inspired by my journey through Old Europe and the work of archeomythologist Marija Gimbutas, I explore goddess-worshiping cultures and the rich symbolism they left behind—like the snake, the egg, and sacred water—as guides for understanding cycles of life, death, fertility, rest, and regeneration.But this isn't just a look at ancient history. I share practical, grounded ways to embody the goddess in your daily life today—through community care, seasonal and cyclical living, everyday rituals, and even the herbal allies I keep close (sometimes literally in my pockets!). If you're longing to reconnect with the Earth, slow down, and live in a more regenerative rhythm, this episode is an invitation to awaken the goddess within and bring her spirit into the heart of your modern life.

In this episode, I explore ancient perspectives on death through the lens of the Goddess—especially as she was honored in Neolithic cultures. We'll journey into the cave as a sacred womb and tomb, examine burial practices, and consider the powerful symbolism of figurines, bees, butterflies, and the 'stiff white lady'—all expressions of transformation and regeneration. These stories remind us that death was once seen not as an end, but as part of a cycle of renewal. I also share the herbal wisdom of lemon balm, a plant long associated with the Goddess and healing rituals, and how we can use it today as an ally in our own times of transition and rebirth.———— MY ONLINE COURSES

In this video, I explore the ancient presence of the Snake Goddess in Old Europe, drawing from the work of Maria Gimbutas and her groundbreaking book The Language of the Goddess. I share images of Neolithic goddess figurines—dating from around the 10th to 8th century BC—and point out the hidden or stylized snake forms that appear on these sacred sculptures. Together, we look at how these images symbolized regeneration, rebirth, and deep ancestral connection, linking the snake to the underworld and to the living earth beneath our feet.I also talk about the beautiful relationship between the snake and the bird—how one connects to the sky above and the other to the depths below—and how this polarity shows up in ancient iconography. We travel from the deep past into the folk traditions of Romania, where the house snake is seen as a guardian spirit, a bringer of happiness, and a vital force that keeps the energy of a home flowing.To anchor these symbols into everyday life, I share how mint and mint family plants can be used to connect with this sacred serpent energy. From their growth along stream banks—where snakes often dwell—to their uplifting, clarifying presence in the home, mint helps us reconnect with the snake's wisdom and keep our inner and outer spaces fresh, alive, and protected.————2025 HERBAL FOUNDATIONS APPRENTICESHIP

In this episode, I dive into the deep waters of goddess symbolism, cultural history, and healing. Drawing from the work of Maria Gimbutas, we'll explore the image of the ancient water goddess—The Mistress of Waters—and how her symbols, from birds to the simple V shape, reveal a worldview rooted in fertility, feminine energy, and creative expression.I also look at how these symbols arose in response to real challenges like drought, and how they remain relevant today in the face of chronic dehydration, climate crisis, and emotional overwhelm. We'll connect these ancient stories to our current relationship with water—as medicine, as spirit, and as a force for environmental awareness and personal healing.Along the way, I'll share how Marshmallow root, a humble but powerful herbal ally, can help restore moisture to both the body and the spirit. Whether you're called to protect water, deepen your health practices, or reconnect with the divine feminine, I hope this conversation brings insight and inspiration.Nourishing Marshmallow Overnight Infusion Recipe- 3/4 cup Dried Nettle Leaf- 3/4 cup Dried Lemon Balm Leaf- 3/4 cup Dried Marshmallow RootAdd herbs to a glass quart jar. Fill the jar with boiling water, cap, and let sit 8-10 hours. Overnight if possible.Strain and drink the next day!Benefits of Marshmallow: Moistening, anti-inflammatory, emollient, anxiolytic, and healing to dry tissues.Miss the first video of this series? Watch it here: https://youtu.be/LB3LImlxFrw?feature=shared————2025 HERBAL FOUNDATIONS APPRENTICESHIP

In this video, I dive into the groundbreaking work of Marija Gimbutas, an incredible archaeologist and anthropologist who dedicated her life to studying goddess imagery in the archaeological sites of Old Europe. Through her research, she uncovered over 20,000 representations of the goddess and documented a matriarchal culture that thrived between 10,000 BCE and 2,000 BCE—one deeply rooted in the worship of the earth goddess and the female form as the central spiritual figure.This episode lays the foundation for a new series where I'll explore the ancient symbols found on architecture, vases, pottery, and art—many of which Gimbutas identified in her studies. In this first installment, we'll focus on the egg as a symbol of creation, fertility, and the generative power of the goddess. I'll share ways you can work with this symbol to tap into your own creative potential, including artistic practices and gardening rituals.I hope this series inspires you and offers meaningful ways to connect with the wisdom of the ancestors and the sacred symbols of the old world.To listen to more about the work of Marija Gimbutas from my episode "Plants, Politics & Power: How to Take Action & Create Change click here: https://youtu.be/qPqpfeLfa2k?feature=shared————2025 HERBAL FOUNDATIONS APPRENTICESHIP

What if your imagination held the key to healing? In this video, I explore the fascinating connection between fantasy, visioning, and well-being—how the mind's ability to dream and create can support both physical and emotional health. Drawing from years of experience working with clients, I'll share personal stories and insights on how harnessing imagination can help us overcome challenges and move toward our goals.We'll also dive into the ancient wisdom of the four humors, focusing on melancholia. The Greeks saw melancholy not just as sadness, but as a powerful gateway to creativity and renewal—a space where deep reflection can lead to inspiration.To support this process, I'll introduce two incredible herbal allies: Rosemary and Burdock. These plants can help sharpen the mind, nourish creativity, and transform periods of introspection into moments of vision and growth.Join me for this inspiring journey into the power of your mind and the wisdom of plants!  ————2025 HERBAL FOUNDATIONS APPRENTICESHIP

Let's revisit the magic and medicine of Damiana (Turnera diffusa)! This warming, aromatic herb has been one of my most popular topics, and I hope you find this deep dive just as engaging and helpful.Native to Mexico and the arid regions of Central and South America, Damiana has a rich history as an aphrodisiac and a tonic for endurance—especially during long journeys. I chose Damiana as February's herb of the month because it speaks to the heart of what this season represents: love, connection, and intimacy. But not just romantic love—Damiana also encourages a deeper relationship with ourselves.How to Make Damiana Tea:

Have you ever wondered how the wisdom of your ancestors could guide you today? In this video, I explore the power of reconnecting with our roots—honoring the land, the traditions, and the sacred images that shaped those who came before us.I'll share three key ways to start unlocking the healing wisdom of your lineage:1. Inquiry – Asking questions, seeking out family stories, and researching your heritage.2. Iconography – Discovering the symbols, plants, and figures that held meaning for your ancestors.3. Rituals – Embracing ancestral foods, seasonal practices, and creative handiwork.I'll also share my own journey of diving into my Sicilian and Lithuanian roots and how this process has brought me deeper peace and meaning. In a world that often feels disconnected, reclaiming our ancestral traditions can be a powerful way to ground ourselves, find belonging, and embrace the wisdom within our lineage.Join me as we rediscover these lost healing traditions together!

In this video, I explore the true meaning of “politics” and how understanding its roots can help us move beyond overwhelm and into action. We'll look at history for guidance—where systems fail us, where they offer hope, and how we can take small yet meaningful steps toward change.One of the voices that inspires me is Marija Gimbutas, a Lithuanian archaeologist and anthropologist who uncovered evidence of matriarchal societies in "Old Europe"—cultures rooted in peace, equality, and cooperation. Her work reminds me that another way is possible, and that we have the power to shape it.I'll share what I see as the two essential pillars for reclaiming our power: the path of prayer and the path of action. These together form a stable foundation for meaningful work in the world. Along the way, I'll provide links to resources—books, films, and organizations—that can help you connect with movements for change, including plant-protecting initiatives across the country.We are not powerless. Small steps matter. I'll show you how to start.————MY ONLINE COURSES

In this episode, I'm sharing five simple (but not always easy!) ways to deepen your connection with herbs as part of your personal healing journey. These practices may seem straightforward, but their true power comes from consistency and patience over time. Whether you're new to herbalism or have been working with plants for years, these steps will help you build a more meaningful and intuitive relationship with herbs.The five key ways to connect are:1. Grow Herbs – Cultivating plants at home fosters a hands-on, sensory relationship.2. Learn Botanical Names – Knowing an herb's true name deepens understanding and respect.3. Observe a Single Plant Through the Seasons – Watching its life cycle brings insight into its nature and uses.4. Study One Herb for a Year – Immersing yourself in a single plant teaches you its nuances and gifts.5. Practice Open Visualization – Engaging with herbs beyond the physical enhances intuition and connection.I'll share how I incorporate these practices into my own life and offer tips on how you can get started—no matter where you are on your herbal path.