Much of modern medicine focuses on what is often called the heroic approach---identify a problem and find the quickest possible fix for the symptoms. This is a somewhat simplistic definition but it is accurate in general. When people approach a herbalist for guidance they sometimes expect a similar approach. Not only are herbalists not medical professionals, most herbalists have a completely different approach to supporting health. This approach is often called a holistic approach because it takes into account the whole person and the underlying issues, both physical and emotional, which are affecting a person. Taking it a step further, Susun Weed---a well-known herbalist and herbal educator---is a champion of what she calls the Wise Woman Way or the Wise Woman Tradition. This approach focuses on nourishment, the use of the gentlest possible course of action and a lifestyle which supports health. Certainly there is a time and place for the heroic course of action but as an overall lifestyle choice, I am a firm believer in the efficacy and sustainability of the Wise Woman Tradition.
The problem is, we as a society have been conditioned to expect convenience. We want something quick and easy. We want the proverbial magic pill. But there are no magic pills in herbalism. In fact, in the Wise Woman Tradition there are rarely any pills at all. This tradition requires a person to become their own healer and take responsibility for their own wellness. It requires us to prepare the herbs for ourselves and our families with love and nurturing.
It's harder to make lifestyle and diet changes. It's harder to face our own emotions and begin the journey to greater emotional health and maturity. Sometimes it's hard to be consistent in making and applying herbal preparations over a period of time. It is my experience, however, that the body responds to nourishment and love with its own kind of gratitude. I have found gentle, nourishing herbs have the "side effect" of a greater sense of health and well being. In the gentle rhythms of herbal preparation, I have found lessons for life. Consistency and persistence are key ingredients for success in many endeavors. A kindly, positive approach often brings out the best in people as well as their physical bodies. Sometimes that which is most gentle is most powerful.
So here's to the holistic approach---no magic pills but much love, nourishment and joy!
The problem is, we as a society have been conditioned to expect convenience. We want something quick and easy. We want the proverbial magic pill. But there are no magic pills in herbalism. In fact, in the Wise Woman Tradition there are rarely any pills at all. This tradition requires a person to become their own healer and take responsibility for their own wellness. It requires us to prepare the herbs for ourselves and our families with love and nurturing.
It's harder to make lifestyle and diet changes. It's harder to face our own emotions and begin the journey to greater emotional health and maturity. Sometimes it's hard to be consistent in making and applying herbal preparations over a period of time. It is my experience, however, that the body responds to nourishment and love with its own kind of gratitude. I have found gentle, nourishing herbs have the "side effect" of a greater sense of health and well being. In the gentle rhythms of herbal preparation, I have found lessons for life. Consistency and persistence are key ingredients for success in many endeavors. A kindly, positive approach often brings out the best in people as well as their physical bodies. Sometimes that which is most gentle is most powerful.
So here's to the holistic approach---no magic pills but much love, nourishment and joy!
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