CONNECTIONS WITH NATURE

Connection

BY MADISYN TAYLOR Earth is home to a web of living things that are connected to each other through a kaleidoscope of relationships. Picking a leaf off the ground and contemplating it as an object in and of itself is very inspiring. Its shape and color, the way it feels in your hand, its delicate veins and the stem that once held it fast to the branch of a tree--all of these qualities reveal a leaf to be a miniature work of natural art. As we contemplate this small object more deeply and consider where it came from and what purpose it has served, we find that the leaf is one small but essential part of a system that harnesses the energy of the sun, plumbs the depths of the earth, and in the process brings into being the oxygen many living things rely on to live.  A leaf transforms the elements of its environment--sunlight, carbon dioxide, rain--into nourishment for its tree. This beautiful, nearly weightless, ephemeral piece of nature is a vital conduit to the branch that is a conduit to the trunk that is a conduit to the roots of the tree. The roots, in turn, draw nourishment from the earth to feed the trunk, the branches, and the leaves. The living beings that inhale the oxygen that comes from this process exhale the carbon dioxide that feeds the leaves through which the tree is fed. It is difficult to know where one cycle ends and another one begins.  One of the many gifts that nature offers us is a clear demonstration of the interdependence between all living things. The person who exhales the carbon dioxide, the clouds that produce the rain, the sun that gives light, the leaf that transforms all these things into sustenance for a tree--not one of these could survive without being part of this cycle.   Each living being is dependent upon other living things for its survival. When we look at the world, we see that this is not a place where different beings survive independently of one another. Earth is home to a web of living things that are connected to each other through a spinning kaleidoscope of relationships. We need each other to survive and thrive.

LUNAR ORACLE 5/6 JULY 2020

Peppermint-This oil relates to the Sun supporting our Minds as the house of Body and Spirit.  It reminds us to be joyful and light hearted, overcome fears, bring mental clarity and has cooling properties to calm excess passion.

Wild Orange-is an Oil connected with the mighty power of Jupiter the beloved teacher and one who invites us to connect with the Inner child to find our joy and creativity.  It helps us to restore feelings of abundance and give without measure, freeing us from a mentality of fear and scarcity.   Restoring our hope in Humanity and assisting us as we find our way back to the Wisdom at Heart Center.

These oils can be used gently by diffusing into a room, and also by inhaling from the bottle, or from a drop placed in the palms of the hands.  Many have therapeutic properties when applied topically, some are excellent for internal use assisting with our digestive health and the removal of toxins.  Caution and proper research should always be exercised before consuming these powerful and concentrated oils or placing them directly on the skin.

The power of an Essential Oil can be amplified by pairing it with a Practice or Intention, such as Prayer, Meditation, or Repeating a Special Mantra.  I also love to use them intuitively when I need to subtly influence my energy as I head out the door to work, or as I go to bed at the end of the night.  Their benefits can be absorbed without even having to try so hard, and they are giving such lovely essences in support of assisting us with moving in to a higher state of consciousness and vibrations.  

They are a brilliant bouquet of Joy to tantalize our senses and restore our minds and hearts to a state of inner Peace and Joy.  

Love and Light until the Next Full Moon will rise.   I hope you gaze upon the Stars and Dance in the Moonlight.

Special Contributions made by-

Meredith Toddre- Tidal Wave of love and insight

Chrissy Lloyd- Spiritual Warrior

Arjun-Guru and beloved teacher

WEEDS FOR DYEING AND NUTRITION

I FIND WEEDS NUTRITIONAL AND GREAT FOR DYEING.  ISABEL SHIPPHARD ALSO CONFIRMS IN HER BOOKS ON HERBS AND WEEDS ETC.  I COULD NOT SAY IT BETTER THAN MADISYN SO HERE IT IS:

Weeds

BY MADISYN TAYLOR A plant is a weed only within a certain context; one person's weed is another person's wildflower. Simply expressed, a weed is any plant that grows where it isn't wanted. Weeds are defined by their tendency to flourish at the expense of a gardener's overall vision, and we tend to battle their presence in our yards. It is interesting to consider, though, that a plant is a weed only within a certain context, which is to say that one person's weed is another person's wildflower. Most of us have pulled at least one dandelion up by its roots and disposed of it in the interest of preserving the look of a perfect green lawn, yet the dandelion is good medicine, packed with healing properties and vitamin-rich leaves that are a delicious, spicy surprise in a summer salad. In the wild, there is no such thing as a weed because the overall vision is in the hands of Mother Nature, who accommodates and incorporates all forms of life. In nature, balance is achieved over the long term, without the aid, or interference, of a human supervisor. While one plant may prevail over others for a certain period of time, eventually it will reach an apex and then it will naturally decline, allowing for other forms to be born and survive. This self-regulating realm was the first garden of our ancestors, who learned the art of agriculture from studying the forests and fields of the as yet uncultivated earth. In a sense, weeds are harbingers of this wildness, pushing their way into our well-ordered plots, undermining more delicate flora, and flourishing in spite of us. The next time you see a weed, you might want to look deeply into its roots, discover its name, its habits, and its possible uses. Instead of seeing an unwanted intruder, you might see a healer offering its leaves for a medicinal tea or its flowers for a colorful salad. At the very least, if you look long enough, you will see a messenger from the wilderness of Mother Earth, reminding you that, even in the most carefully controlled garden, she cannot be completely ruled out.

Sturt Desert Pea

TESTIMONIAL from Jeanette

TESTIMONIAL<iframe title="vimeo-player" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/361732328" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

IS IT FEAR OF DEATH ITSELF?

Mark Raphael Baker wrote "THIRTY DAYS" a Journey to the end of Love.  In the book he describes that: Quote:  THOUGH I WALK THROUGH THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH: the truth is that more of us do not fear death in any real sense until it approaches us ---Death is just a grand abstraction that is supposed to instil meaning in our life.  Unquote.  I think his thoughts of the subject resonates well with me.  Perhaps it isn't fear that we have of death.  Life is just busy until death comes and bites into our world.  I thoroughly enjoyed his book and highly recommend it if or if you haven't lost someone close to you.

HOLDING SPACE FOR DEATH AND DYING

Holding Space for Others

BY MADISYN TAYLOR When we hold space for someone, we offer to be a container for the overwhelming feelings they may be encountering. We have all been called upon at one time or another to help a loved one through a difficult time. When the help required consists of concrete actions such as running errands or making phone calls, we know what to do. But sometimes we are called to hold space for the person as they go through their journey. They may need to express anger or grief; they may need to talk or simply be silent. They may need us to hold their hand; they may need us to give them time alone. Whatever the case, when we hold space for someone, we offer ourselves to be a container for the overwhelming feelings they may be encountering due to their circumstances. When we offer ourselves in this way, the more centered and grounded we are, the better. Our steadiness allows our companion to lean into us for support, and our presence provides an environment in which they can be free to move. We can also help by being responsive, allowing them to dictate the flow of action from talking to not talking, from anger to grief, and back again. By being aware and open, we can help them confront their feelings when that feels right, and back off from them when they need a break. Holding space requires humility, conscientiousness, the ability to step out of the way, and us to honestly understand that this is not about us. When we love someone in this way, we provide a space in which they can simply be, and feel what they need to feel without worrying about how they are being perceived. We can provide this offering in person, over the phone, or even from a distance through meditation. However we do it, when we hold space for someone in need, we are offering a gift of the highest nature.

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Shroud Making workshop coming up end of November,  another coming up in January.  Shroud Mementos or Shrouds for something personal for your own Ceremony in the future.  Something to work on or just to get started with lots of creative ideas.  Creative play in lots of art mediums of your choosing.  Something to pass on in the family for a lovely keepsake of who you are and what life is about for you.

"WHEN TREES SPOKE TO ME" Video by Christine Elcoate

https://vimeo.com/user8538301

It has taken me over five years to be able to put together this video after losing my husband tragically five days after getting back from a cultural exchange in Japan and visiting friends.  I haven't been able to do anything with all the photos I took in Japan until this week.  Must be time.

Friends took me to a Shrine not far from where we were staying just outside of Nagano.  I had to most magic experience walking through the ancient over 800 year old trees to the Shrine.  A warm surge came over me and my heart filled with warm energy and tears of bliss came over me.  Such a memorable moment in time that I did not realise until looking back that the trees were preparing me for what was to come in Australia five days later.  Now my trees now in my garden are my closest friends.  Meditating in my garden taking quiet time is now so fulfilling connecting with nature.  Try it and see how it changes your life.

NEW SUNSHINE ART THERAPY WORKSHOP AVAILABLE

If you are looking for a sunshine in your life, come and play for a day.  Having fun with meditation, movement, and loosen up your creativity with art play.  Great for those in need of a boost, sad, stuck in a rut and need a shift in gear.  Bring a little ray of sunshine into your life and play awhile with me at my studio.
Workshops availablity on elcoate1@gmail.com.

If you are seeking, seek us with joy
For we live in the kingdom of joy.
Do not give your heart to anything else
But to the love of those who are clear joy,
Do not stray into the neighborhood of despair.
For there are hopes: they are real, they exist --
Do not go in the direction of darkness --
I tell you: suns exist.

- Jalal-ud-Din Rumi

LATEST HEALING WRAPS- 2 METRES OF ECO DYED BEAUTIFUL SILK:

HYDRANGEA, DAYLILY & EUCALYPT ECO DYED SILK WRAP

infused with Bottlebrush, Red Suva Frangipani

 and Five Corner Australian Bush Essences - 

Healing properties:  Calm, Serenity, grounding, Joy and Vitalising

MENIDILLA, DAYLILY FLOWERS WITH GREVILLEA LEAVES

infused with Ian Whites Australian Bush Essences - Green Spider Orchid and Bottlebrush

Healing Properties:  Calmness, Serenity, Courage to Cope, Faith & Strength

DAYLILY FLOWERS, ONION SKINS, & EUCALYPTUS LEAVES

infused with Ian White's Australian Bush Essences - Paw Paw & Bottlebrush

Healing Properties:  Calmness, clarity, Courage to Cope and to look to the future

INDIGO ON VINTAGE SILK

Infused with Australian Bush Essence Jacaranda and Aromatherapy

Oil of Ylang Ylang 

Healing Properties:  Calm, Peace, Centred, Secure, and Happiness

BOXED HEALING WRAPS - $145 plus postage

ANOTHER HEALING COAT HAS MADE IT TO JAPAN TO TATEBAYASHI

The joy on my Japanese Artist friend's face made my day.  I was able to send her her healing coat via my other Japanese friend Bessie who was here recently for a Sister Cities Agreement signing.  I wasn't there in person but she could not wait to try it on and to send a photo.  Tombow Kobayashi is an International Doll Artist who has just come through another of life's challenges.  The Healing Coat will give her the extra strength she needs to continue her journey.

MONTVILLE MARKET DAY

Had a great day on Saturday with lots of people through the market.

The feature healing coat was Liquid Amber Rising.  The Indigo was 4 dips strong and the turmeric moon contrasted well against the healing blue.  Great day with little girls painting portraits on stage for $2 raising money for the Reef.  Lots happening and lots of interest in the Australian Bush Essence Healing Clothes and coats.

THE JOURNEY IS CONTINUING:

Today I packaged up my "Tibrogargan: Father of them All" Healing Coat ready for pick up next week to it's new owner who is a healer too.  The coat will be shared I am sure with many in Lismore and Adelaide where it will travel with Sue and her clinic.  As an artist it is like a piece of me going or another baby leaving the nest.  I know it will be loved.

QUOTES I FOUND TODAY TO LOVE:

“When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.”? – Jean Shined Bolen


“Our self-respect tracks our choices. Every time we act in harmony with our authentic self and our heart, we earn our respect. It is that simple. Every choice matters.” ?– Dan Coppersmith

These both resonated with me this morning after reading these.  I hope they do with you.

USING THE HEALING COATS:  I have just had the most amazing two days of Reiki training.  Our teacher asked me to bring along my Healing Coats to show the group.  They all loved them of course, and we ended up using some of them in the Group healing sessions, when practising on each other.  Well WOW and double WOW.  The Healing Coats were amazing and profound.  Two of us who used the coats had huge clearings of "Sorrow" and "Pain".  I was humbled to find that all that I have been working on for the last two years with mind, body and soul actually works.  I love the direction my Art is taking me.  

In Search Of Indigo

"UTILISING PLANT'S IMMUNE SYSTEM TO HEAL OUR OWN"

“In their native habitats, plants grow in communities. They must survive exposed to the natural elements, must compete with other plants, and must live in the midst of complex microbial and insect communities. Essential oils are part of a plant’s immune system, created by its evolutionary intelligence primarily for repelling pathogens. By harvesting and distilling their oils, we bring the immunological power of the plant communities into our communities"…David Crow

This is why I am so in love with nature's essences to help us heal in a non evasive way.  There are so much pollution in the food we eat to the air we breathe that to be able to do or make these healing products in such a gentle yet powerful way stimulates my creative juices in new ways.   David Crow is such an interesting authority on herbs and plants, that he is  worth googling and hearing what he has to say.

I have a meditation book for "Women who do too much" by Anne Wilson Schaef and for the 1st October page I felt a resonance.

AWARENESS OF PROCESS/COMMITMENT STEP THREE
To believe in something not yet proved and to underwrite it with our lives:  it is the only way we  can leave the future open. - Lillian Smith

There once was a woman who said that she experienced the idea of Living in Process as akin to jumping off a cliff.  Sometimes after making that statement she related a dream in which she had come to the edge of a cliff and was aware of being very fearful of something coming up behind her.  In the dream, she felt that she had only one positive choice - to jump off the cliff, which she did with great terror.  Suddenly she was a aware of a wonderful floating feeling.  She opened her eyes and realised that her skirt had become a parachute; she was safe and floating comfortably.

"Leaving the future open" may be one of the most important commitments we make with our lives.  Believing in something no yet proved may just be believing in ourselves.

We never know what will make good parachutes.  When one is leaving the future open, it helps to know that there are parachutes not of our making in our lives.  

I feel my healing coats/clothes and shroud making/shroud mementos are a small part of my future and the rest is wide open.  WOW!

Red Lily is the same flower as the sacred Lotus in the Buddhist tradition. It enables people to stay grounded while opening up spiritually. It connects the Crown Chakra to the Body’s energy system, which is centred in the Base Chakra.

I am working on a new design of summer healing coat.  Smaller and more versatile which has the lotus flower design with pod incorporated into the coat.  The Red Lily Australian Bush Essence is the primary essence used on the cloth.  I am quite excited how this is shaping up.  Something which has evolved experientially.