Wheel of the Year
A seasonal exploration of nature, medicine, and magic.
***The year beginning with Winter of 2021 will be the last year of this project; it will be a "best-of" year. The products will be my favorites (and customer favorites) from past boxes.***
As human beings, we have always lived and worked with the turning seasons. When we greet with joy the first sparkling frost, planning hot soup and roasted root vegetables for dinner; when the scent of spring flowers goes straight to our hearts; when our very bones seem to glow with vibrancy at the onset of summer; and when we admire the flaming leaves, shivering at the touch of ghosts in autumn; we tap into these ancient senses. Each season has its own character, its own palette of colors and flavors. We, as part of the living world, also change through the year, and have developed rituals and stories for each season.
This continuous cycle is known in many nature-based traditions as the Wheel of the Year. Each season is associated with a cardinal direction, and time is considered to move sunwise around the compass: Beginning in the North, in the darkness of winter (for all things are conceived in darkness), we move East to the rising sun of springtime, South through the full strength of summer, finally coming to the West in Autumn, the time of endings*.
As human beings, we have always lived and worked with the turning seasons. When we greet with joy the first sparkling frost, planning hot soup and roasted root vegetables for dinner; when the scent of spring flowers goes straight to our hearts; when our very bones seem to glow with vibrancy at the onset of summer; and when we admire the flaming leaves, shivering at the touch of ghosts in autumn; we tap into these ancient senses. Each season has its own character, its own palette of colors and flavors. We, as part of the living world, also change through the year, and have developed rituals and stories for each season.
This continuous cycle is known in many nature-based traditions as the Wheel of the Year. Each season is associated with a cardinal direction, and time is considered to move sunwise around the compass: Beginning in the North, in the darkness of winter (for all things are conceived in darkness), we move East to the rising sun of springtime, South through the full strength of summer, finally coming to the West in Autumn, the time of endings*.
In our modern world, it can be difficult to remember - let alone feel - our place in this cycle on a regular basis. Many demands tug at our attention, and even spending time outside can require planning and effort. But the rewards are well worth it. Connection with the earth and sky, plants and animals, the blowing wind and whirling stars, is at the very heart of our beings. As is connection with generations past; the lessons and lore that are our inheritance.
Each moon sees different plants - foods and herbs - come into abundance, often with just the properties we need to help keep us healthy in the conditions of the current season. This knowledge, and an affinity with these plants, is key to our well-being. |
This project is a manifestation of what I have learned - and continue to learn - in the study of herbal medicine and the various related paths it has led me to. A way to rekindle our relationship with the natural world, and bring seasonal foods, traditions, medicines, and wisdom into our daily lives.
At each solstice and equinox, you will receive a box containing several hand-made products that embody the spirit of the current season. These will be unique - created in small batches specially for subscribers - determined by the plants in season and whatever inspiration strikes, and made from local, wild-harvested, and sustainable herbs and materials.
Products (4 - 6 per box) will be mainly herbal, and often medicinal. I use "medicine" here in its broader sense: that which strengthens and sustains us - body, mind, and spirit - helping us to find our own power. They will also be enjoyable. A brilliant teacher once told me that herbal medicine should, whenever possible, have an element of loveliness, and that is something I wholeheartedly agree with. Possibilities include:
Tinctures
Elixirs
Salves
Incense
Teas
Bath or Culinary Salts
Syrups
Oils
Vinegars
Seasonings
Electuaries
Herbal foods
An occasional stone, drawing, or other such thing may make an appearance. Of course, thorough information on the products and the herbs therein will be included, as well as on the time of the year that we are in. Folklore and historical tales will be included as well, as stories are medicine for the soul.
If you would like to join me on this journey, please use the form below to sign up. You will receive a confirmation and an invoice via email.
Thank you for your interest. May the moon light your way, and flowers bloom in your heart.
At each solstice and equinox, you will receive a box containing several hand-made products that embody the spirit of the current season. These will be unique - created in small batches specially for subscribers - determined by the plants in season and whatever inspiration strikes, and made from local, wild-harvested, and sustainable herbs and materials.
Products (4 - 6 per box) will be mainly herbal, and often medicinal. I use "medicine" here in its broader sense: that which strengthens and sustains us - body, mind, and spirit - helping us to find our own power. They will also be enjoyable. A brilliant teacher once told me that herbal medicine should, whenever possible, have an element of loveliness, and that is something I wholeheartedly agree with. Possibilities include:
Tinctures
Elixirs
Salves
Incense
Teas
Bath or Culinary Salts
Syrups
Oils
Vinegars
Seasonings
Electuaries
Herbal foods
An occasional stone, drawing, or other such thing may make an appearance. Of course, thorough information on the products and the herbs therein will be included, as well as on the time of the year that we are in. Folklore and historical tales will be included as well, as stories are medicine for the soul.
If you would like to join me on this journey, please use the form below to sign up. You will receive a confirmation and an invoice via email.
Thank you for your interest. May the moon light your way, and flowers bloom in your heart.