As we retreat inwards for the cool winter months, some may feel a sense of gloom or dullness after the vibrancy of summertime. This simple herbal practice can help you to feel grounded, centred and present in your body as you awaken to your senses; and encourage a feeling of awe at the intricate beauty of nature.

For this ritual you will need:

• Yourself 😊

• some herbs, preferably growing in the garden or pots (though even dried from the spice rack will serve the purpose!)

• a cup (choosing one of your favs may enhance the experience)

• kettle/hot water

• teapot (optional)

The Ritual.

This process can be a quick “uplift” exercise and take as little as 2-5 minutes, or you may choose to take your time, depending on your circumstances.

• Step outside, barefoot if possible (but not essential).

        Take 3 deep breaths. Feel the cool air on your cheeks. Feel the freshness of the air you are breathing in. 

        Arrive in the moment.

• Sound ~ Pause and listen. What can you hear? Bring your attention to the sounds of nature, the wind in the leaves, birdsong, perhaps drops of rain. Take your time here and feel into the space.

• Now, approach your plants. Greet them with a simple, “good morning” or “hello”. You can say this out loud, or in your mind.

• Smell ~ Go with the flow, smell any flowers, rub scented leaves and inhale their perfume.

• Sight ~ Look closely at the leaf shapes, textures, colours. Has this changed since last you took the time to notice? Are there any droplets of rain or dew on the leaves? Any little insects present?

• Taste ~ Take a little nibble of the plant leaf or flower. How does it taste? What sensations does it arouse? Is it pleasant or does it make your face pucker up?

• Notice if you feel drawn to any particular plant(s). Spend a little extra time here. Notice any feelings or thoughts or sensations that arise. Don’t attach to them, just let them flow past.

• Bringing it all together ~ Garden tea. This is an additional extra phase that I love. Select some fresh herbs and add to your cup (or teapot). Go with your intuition here. Some suggestions may be: lemongrass, mint, thyme, calendula, lemon balm, lemon verbena, violet flowers, olive leaves. Once you have selected your herbs, add the hot water to your cup to teapot and allow to brew, then enjoy your fresh garden tea. Remember to breathe in the scent of the tea, feel the warmth of the cup in your hands, savour the taste of the tea as you sip it.

• Gratitude ~ don’t forget to give thanks to the plants for their gifts and their beauty. Return any tea residue to the earth.

Repeat this process whenever you feel the need 😊

Note: if you do not have a garden space, or potted herbs, adapt this ritual using an assortment of dried pantry herbs. Be creative. This is about awakening the senses. If you don’t have a garden, compost your tea remains on an indoor potted plant or street verge.

SAFETY – always be sure you have correctly identified the plant before consuming.