Plants can support you to extend your nervous system when times are tough. Creating a bigger container for tough emotions and soothing frayed nerves.
When I first started doing inner child work many years ago I instinctually started a nightly ritual. Each night before sleep I’d drink a cup of chamomile tea. The warmth felt soothing. I found the herb helped me wind down for sleep.
Over time, my nightly cups of chamomile inspired me to bring the plant into other parts of my day. Chamomile became my go to tea before I taught a group class. What I sipped as preparation for a difficult conversation with someone. And the favorite beverage I reached for on a tough day.
I developed a deep affection of chamomile. Sensing a divine parent/grandparent like presence with the plant. Who always knew exactly what I needed. And who as I sipped revved down my nervous system when I felt upset to create space for new wise clarity to come through.
Years later when I went to herb school I learned my intuitive instincts were spot on.
Herbalist Matthew Wood refers to chamomile as “the baby remedy” and the “remedy for babies at any age.” Cheekily giving a nod to how even we as adults can slip into our younger selves that struggle to be settled.
I learned that chamomile has a long folk history for soothing whining, irritated, and cannot be comforted babies.
Learning this about chamomile felt like a celebration of the friend and ally I’d long come to cherish. And the herb that literally parents my body when my inner children feel irritated.
On this weeks’ episode of Tune In with Marci, I explore the power of plants to support us when we’re overwhelmed.
I shared:
Chamomile as an ally for our inner child.
Daily plant rituals to lean on during tough times.
Why plants should be valued as much as our human support system.
The power of plants to remind us of our deepest essence.
And one simple practice to invite plants to support your exhausted nervous system right now.
Tell me in the comments below, what would shift if you extended your support system in times of need to the plants, fungi, and trees around and within your home?
Much love,
Marci
PS. Excited to learn more about the plants? Make sure to join my newsletter at the bottom of this page to know when I’m teaching a class on plant spirits and plants as allies again!