Welcome the return of the light! I am so ready for the sun to begin to climb higher in the sky and to greet the lengthening days on the December 21st Winter Solstice. Nature is the reason for the season. This reflection arises for me as I recognize the shifting cycles of the year as a universal experience that every living being shares.

It was one of the first clear, warm days of late spring. I searched around the garden to see what was in bloom. Lo and behold! Poppy abounds. Bright tangerine cups holding the light-filled energy with care. Blooms float on the water and soak up the sun.

Early morning calls, as the sun reaches higher in the sky. Light glints through trees and caresses the leftover dew. Even sharp things become softened within this glow. The unmistakable scent of fresh Pine reaches my senses, as I become captivated by an unassuming flower.

Learning how to strengthen our ability to speak our truths can be an arduous path. When I turn towards flower energy as a healing agent (flower essences for healing), I perceive the flower essences of Agrimony and Vervain as transformative in allowing us to recognize what holds us back in our ability to communicate with ease.

Whit McClure is the creative mind & muscle behind W H I T  H A Z E N, a design studio focused on creating beautifully crafted flowers and home goods in Los Angeles, California. Despite lifelong artistic inclinations, Whit spent years after college working on farms & in the nonprofit world teaching folks of all ages and walks of life how to grow their own food.

As I travel up the dusty trail in search of hidden gems sprouting from dry soil, my eye catches a candy-pink glint of flower, among a patch of many. I expand my gaze and realize that Centaury flower essence is abloom in profusion, as far as the eye can see.

One of the most mystical of all the Bach flowers, Walnut provides a three-fold transformation, that is so very relevant during this current time of transition. This is the flower of choice for empaths, or for anyone who is sensitive to the world around them and absorbent of outside energies.

Without having to try or do anything, you are. Oftentimes, we feel disconnected from this truth. I see this time and again with those who come to me for support and guidance.

Sometimes there’s a sinking feeling. After I’ve displayed my gifts, and am not met by a favorable outcome, I hit a dead end. The discouragement comes forward and I am shackled by the belief that there’s no use in trying any further. I pause. Laugh at myself a little.

What is something you do regularly that creates self-nourishment? This is one of the first questions I ask students. when I’m teaching how to design powerful coaching programs.

Essence work is about exploration, intuition and experience. As I continue to deepen my discoveries of subtle energy medicines, I recognize the stability offered from gem essences. Currently I am dazzled by Diamond’s brilliance.

Summer was at its height when I stood before the Lotus pond. As I moved closer to the beaming ray of light emanating from the center of this bold bloom, my throat caught, and tears began to stream freely down my face.

Patricia currently administrates the Flower Essence Society research and practitioner training programs.  She is also currently active as a flower essence teacher and counselor.

The longest days of the year entice me outdoors to revel in the blossoming of the season. Everywhere, flowers stand to greet me. Roses in full bloom and Day Lilies waking from sleep.

Summer is the ultimate season to learn how to make a flower essence.  Especially, with long days of unadulterated sunshine. When I wake up and the sun is at its brightest, with clear blue skies, I wander through the garden to see what’s in bloom.

Emerging from the earth. Giant fairy paintbrush. Kaleidoscope of colors bursting forth. In a display of creativity and joy.

In mid-winter brown bareness, new life contemplates birth. Stillness amidst slightly warmer air pulls me outside, in search of flowering. I gaze upon a sturdy white cup, standing tall and proud in a garden nearly bereft of blooms.