Lichenwood Rambles

Learning and Exploring

The bees are busy with their summer harvest.  Their instinct tells them how to gather and process the ingredients they need for their survival and luckily for us the byproducts of their work are the pollination that allows fruit to set and seeds to be created, and also the wonderful honey, wax, royal jelly, pollen and propolis.

Humans have their instinctual gathering skills also.  Long ago our ancestors were keenly attuned to the environment.  It was key to their survival.  There were no distractions from the sights, smells and vibrational awareness of each unique ecosystem.  Today humans rely less on themselves and more on television, radio, internet, and cell phone and they have given up their own empowerment for choice to corporations, supermarkets, big food, big pharma, and the list goes on.

You can reclaim your power by knowing and understanding the wild plants, the medicinal garden plants and flowers of your bioregion.  You can learn how to make better choices for your table by shopping local at your farmer's market and choosing ethically, organically raised fruits, vegetables meat and dairy.  You can also learn how to harvest your local plants and create your own medicines, medicinal extracts and oils, salves, lotions, and creams.  You can experience the transformational magick of flower essences to move forward on your path as you resolve old troublesome psychological and emotional issues.

All the particulars (dates, times, cost, etc.) for Lichenwood's 2012 Herbal Mentorship program and Flower Essence Practitioner Training have been posted at Lichenwood Herbals .  Each year the journey is exciting and rewarding for both the teacher and the students as we talk, learn, explore and grow in knowledge and experience.  You will have lots of hands-on experience in either program.  If you have been longing to know how to go forward on the path of herbalism or how to experience the vibrational healing of flowers, consider gifting yourself with either or both of these programs.  

Student groups are often an eclectic mix, from the complete plant world novice, to graduates of other programs who are eager to hone their skills under guidance.  Payment plans are always an option. Please contact me at [email protected] with all your questions.  I would like to invite you for a visit to Lichenwood so that you can decide if either of these programs is right for you in 2012.

 

The Fawn

A few days ago I was busily packing up orders when a plaintive meow alerted me that Buffy wanted to go out.  As I opened the door to the front porch, my eyes automatically scanned the yard and this is what I saw: the most beautiful little fawn standing in the shelter of a large tree.  I grabbed my camera and went out to record the event.  I was surprised how close the baby let me get.  He/She was well trained to stand still in an attempt at camouflage.  Eventually I got just a bit too close and the fawn bounded off into the pine forest, little whitetail flag flying.

I thought that was the end of fawn encounters and felt a little guilty for scaring the sweet little thing.  I was excited to share my pictures with Daryl when he got home.  After dinner I went out to put vegetable peelings in the compost and what did I spy?

The mama deer had put her baby to bed right next to our raised bed gardens!  We later saw the doe visit with the fawn and then she was gone for the night.  In the morning, the little one was still right where the mother had left it.  I began to worry and made a call to a wildlife rescue center.  Remarkably it turns out new fawns need only nurse once a day!  Throughout the day we visited, keeping a respectful distance.

 
Finally, after suppertime, mother and baby reunited and moved away from the backyard, across Peary Brook, and up the hill toward Coot Farm, pausing long enough for the fawn to nurse.  We thought we might not get to see the little bambi again.  

That was 48 hours ago.  This morning we decided to weed our daylily spiral.  We decided to walk the spiral first since Daryl had mown the path the day before.  There, tucked in amongst the daylilies was our little friend!  Needless to say, we did not weed the spiral today!

It's wonderful that the deer know they are safe and protected here.  We have observed fawns at Lichenwood every springtime, but this is the most precious encounter yet!

I love to share the magickal energy of this space by offering classes here throughout the year.  Our next offering will take place on Monday evening, June 20th, from 7-9 pm. 

Create a Money Honey Jar with Raven Sayres 
Hoodoo is a folk magic that has been practiced for many years by a variety of people from many different backgrounds. It is not a religion, it is the practice of conjure. Come learn a little of that old time hoodoo conjure and create a Money Honey Jar with Raven. With today’s economy being what it is, who couldn’t use a little extra cash in their pockets and a extra little sweetening in their life. Cost $25.00 plus a $10.00 material fee.

Contact me at [email protected] for information on how to register for this event.

Welcome to 2011!

 

Welcome to 2011! At this time of year, Lichenwood should be resting under chilly blanket of snow. Instead our one snowfall of the season is currently melting during a very early January thaw.  Not even Lichenwood pond is frozen!  We will have to wait and see what the rest of the Winter season will bring.

2010 was quite a year.  Personally things ended on a very positive note.  Daryl's close call with an unexpected heart attack on the Spring Equinox transformed our lives.  Daryl tweaked an already healthy lifestyle into one that has somehow erased all evidence of any heart damage.  The latest stress test and echocardiogram show no damage at all, much to the surprise of the cardiologist who had told us that while Daryl's heart could learn to compensate, the damage could never reverse.  Healing is always possible!  The cardiologist said that Daryl must be immortal!

I traveled across the country and had the time of my life at the Traditions in Western Herbalism Conference in New Mexico.  I can't recommend it highly enough.  I have already got my ticket for the 2011 conference.  Maybe we can meet up there?

The Herbal Mentorship of 2010 was very satisfying.  It is wonderful to see students expand their knowledge and create materia medica that I hope will further inspire them.  I love to walk with students and introduce them to the plants, helping them to use all their senses as they interact.  Of course, I always learn a new plant or two from the students or from friends that come to walk with me.

Flower Essence Practitioner Training was equally fulfilling.  Every time I teach this class, it reinvigorates me to do deeper essence work, both in co-creation and exploration. Currently some graduates of my past training programs are involved in the Lunar Cycle Flower Essence Project which is revealing the properties of some essences that I have not yet listed on the website.

If you are thinking about enrolling in the Herbal Mentorship or Flower Essence Practitioner class, please send in your application as soon as possible.  Space is limited, but there are still spots available.  The Herbal Mentorship begins on March 7th.  The first meeting of the Flower Essence Practitioner Training is April 25th.

2011 classes have all been moved to Mondays.  You will find the dates, times and other details listed on the website.  New workshops are up too as I continue to offer Magickal Mondays, and our first Magickal Monday Evening.  Kate Leigh will be the guest teacher for Magickal Monday Evening.  In this interactive presentation, Kate  will assist each participant in ultimately creating an aromacharacteristic essential oil blend, which is a reflection of some of the individual's key elements as displayed in their birth chart. We will begin with some basics about astrology, which will necessarily have to be abbreviated, but will include a discussion of how the chart shows the layers of the personal make-up. Then we will explore the handouts, which are keynote sheets, guiding each participant to their dominant elements and planets, and suggesting essential oils and fragrances that have correspondences to these features of the chart. Then each person will have a chance to smell these oils and fragrances, to use their inner guidance system, the nose, to help them select ingredients for their blend. Next, Kate will help each person arrange the blend, with appropriate ratios of the scents to be used together. Details on Kate's class and other workshops can be found on the workshops page of the website.

I continue to offer herbal and flower essence consultations on Wednesdays through Fridays and occassional Saturday mornings.  There is also a complete herbal apothecary (herbs, extracts, flower essences, essential oils, etc.) at Lichenwood.  Flower essences and essential oils are listed on the website.  Herbs, extracts and other products are available.  Just give me a call or send an email to let me know what you are looking for and I'll let you know about pricing and availability.  You can pick up your order or I can mail it out.

Other plans are in the works and when these possibilities become certainties, I'll be sure to let you know.

Planting Seeds for 2011 Programs at Lichenwood

The green season has come to an end.  The Herbal Mentorship and Flower Essence Practitioner Training students have finished their classes for 2010.  I have a lot of fun teaching these programs and every year I learn a lot from my students.  I make adjustments and strive to improve each program.

During this new moon I am planting seeds for the 2011 programs.  One change is that all my teaching will be done on Mondays next year, freeing more of my weekends for family.  If attending Monday classes can be compatible with your work schedule, and you are interested in learning more about herbalism or flower essences (or both), please read about the Herbal Mentorship and Flower Essence Practitioner Training programs.  Contact me by email or phone for more information, or to arrange a visit.

As we spiral into the darkness of the late fall and winter, plant some seeds for yourself!

 

New Projects: Magickal Mondays

As the Herbal Mentorship and Flower Essence Intensives are coming to an end for 2010, I have had requests to continue classes through the dark half of the year.  To that end I have created the first three "Magickal Mondays" which will take us on a journey to understand the basic concepts of Witchcraft through study and experience of the beautiful divination decks designed by Raven Grimassi and Stephanie Taylor, and illustrated by Mickie Mueller.  

Once a month I welcome you to experience a Magickal Monday at Lichenwood.  Each of these unique classes will begin with a discussion of several cards from the Well Worn Path Deck or Hidden Path Deck, followed by a potluck lunch and a short class, complete with handout, on a metaphysical subject.  Each class costs $25 payable at the door, but you must preregister a week ahead of time.  At least 3 students must register for class to be held.  Class begins at 9am, potluck lunch from 12-1pm, class ends at 3pm.  

Please purchase the two divination decks by Raven Grimassi and Stephanie Taylor, illustrated by Mickie Mueller, “The Well Worn Path” and “The Hidden Path”.  It is certainly acceptable to come to class without them, but you will get more from your experience if you own these decks.  These decks are available at many local occult shops or can be purchased online at Raven's Loft.

You may opt in and opt out.  These are stand alone classes.  If you miss one, you will still enjoy the classes you attend.  Any classes canceled due to bad weather will be rescheduled.
Dates and topics will be announced in advance.  Below are the dates and topics for our first three Magickal Mondays:

Magickal  Monday, November 15, 2010

 
Today we will discuss the following cards:  Wheel of the Year (WWP)Maiden (WWP)Mother (WWP)Crone (WWP)Book of Shadows (WWP)Samhain (HP)Triformis (HP)

Potluck lunch

Class:  Wheel of the Year~ What are the myths and cycles that turn the Wheel?

 

Magickal Monday, December 6, 2010

 
Today we will discuss the following cards:  
The Rede (WWP)Law of Three (WWP)As Above, So Below (WWP)Eight Fold Path (WWP)Words of the Magus (WWP)Hearth (WWP)Yule (HP)Oak King (HP)Tree in Winter (HP)

Potluck lunch

Class:  Techniques of Candle Magick

 

Magickal Monday, January 10, 2010

 
Today we will discuss the following cards:  
Handfasting (WWP)Broom (WWP)The Key (WWP)The Moon (WWP)The Crescent Crowned Goddess (WWP)The Sun (WWP)The Stag Horned God (WWP)The Priestess and Priest (HP)Drawing Down the Moon (HP)

Potluck Lunch

Class:  Elements of Ritual

 

 

Please contact me directly at [email protected]  or call me at 603-664-3393 with your questions or to enroll in any Magickal Monday.

I will also be offering some classes at Sun Moon Stars in Rollinsford, NH in the weeks ahead:

Make Your Own Herbal Incense, Sunday October 17, 1-3pm

Learn how to create your own incense at home with herbs, resins, and essential oils.  You will take home an instructional booklet for future reference.  We will make loose incense together as a class and you will leave with a small jar for your use.  Presented by Christine Tolf of Lichenwood Herbals.
$30, includes booklet and jar of incense

 

 

Wheel of the Year, Saturday November 6, 1-2:30 pm

The eight Sabbats of the neo-pagan year make up the Wheel of the Year.  When do these celebrations occur?  What are we celebrating?  What are the myths that turn the Wheel?  Christine Tolf of Lichenwood Herbals will explain the themes and the herbal correspondences of the eight holidays.  You will receive a detailed handout.
$20, includes handout

Contact Dawn Evans of Sun Moon Stars Herbals to reserve your space.  All classes have minimum and maximum enrollment requirements.  

Traditions in Western Herbalism Conference

Last December I took a leap of faith and registered for the first ever Traditions in Western Herbalism Conference.  There were so many practical reasons not to make this commitment:  Would I generate enough money with my business to pay all the expenses associated with travel?  Could I overcome my fear of flying?  Could this pampered woman who sleeps in a cushy bed with a big down pillow adjust to conference style accommodations at the Ghost Ranch?  I could go on and on with all the cautions that came to my mind.  Happily my desire to be part of a conference that celebrated Vitalism and included teachers that I have not had the opportunity to hear in person overcame my concerns.  I committed myself, I registered, and of course, the Universe provided me with sufficient work to meet all my needs including travel to the conference.

 Since I hadn't been on a plane in 25 years I was glad to have a traveling companion who knew the airport security drill.  Joyce Belcher of Herbs for Life was my guide through the current air travel regulations and just a wonderful overall travel buddy.  We had our own mini conference on the plane, exchanging all kinds of ideas, questions, and knowledge about the use of herbs for people and animals.  My fear of flying?  It was nonexistent.  I was looking out the window enjoying the view.  Flower essences are just amazing!  The blend I put together to address my specific fears worked beautifully! 

Arriving on Thursday in Albuquerque, we spent the afternoon in beautiful Santa Fe, resting from travel and enjoying a lovely meal served on a terrace.  How refreshing it is to the eye to view a completely different landscape and cityscape.  We continued our journey and arrived at the Ghost Ranch to register for our room in a charming little adobe casita where we had our bedroom and bath.

 It was exciting for me to be present in an environment that is so different than my beloved New England.  The colors, the lack of humidity, and so many plants that I did not know left me feeling like a stranger in a captivating new land.

 
The new physical vistas were a taste of things to come once I began to meet and interact with the beautiful students and teachers of this conference.  I am not a conference person.  I don't like the confinement of crowds, or the distance I've felt at other gatherings between students and teachers.  I usually end up just buying the lecture CDs and skipping the social piece of conferences that sometimes feels uncomfortable and stilted to me.   My first social interaction at the Traditions in Western Herbalism Conference?  A warm welcoming hug from Kiva Rose who recognized me immediately from Facebook!  I found all the teachers to be just as approachable, connecting from a deep heart space with the students, sharing their passion for plants and healing.  It was REAL.  It was VITAL.  I have rarely felt so connected during a group event since the 60's and early 70's.  

 I took away so much from this conference.  It was not just the lectures and wisdom shared.  The passion for life and the commitment to follow that passion to learn, share, and serve the community and the Earth was a primary message that I received.  

How nurtured and re-energized I feel!  I have made a few changes since I returned home eliminating some meaningless activities from my life and making more time for things I am passionate about.  I have been on this path for awhile, but my experience at this high vibration conference has infused me with joy and purpose.  Many thanks to Kiva and Wolf for organizing the Traditions in Western Herbalism Conference.  I look forward to another rendezvous in 2011!  Read Kiva's blog post about all the wonderful plans for next year! 

Thoughts Become Things

February’s energy has accelerated the materialization of long held plans.  Much like the Red Lotus above, energies from primordial earth and water are transforming themselves into a beautiful reality. Both long term programs at Lichenwood will take place this year.  The Herbal Mentorship is almost full and the Flower Essence Intensives are filling up as well.  If you, or someone you know, are thinking of enrolling in either program, please contact me as soon as possible.  I invite you to come to Lichenwood for a visit.  This is the best way to find out if one of these programs is for you.  As always, the Universe attracts the right group of students to come together for an optimum experience.  

 HERBAL MENTORSHIP PROGRAM 2010

 Dates for this program are: Mondays from 9am-4pm, March 8 and 22, April 5 and 19, May 3 and 17, June 7 and 21, July 12 and 26, August 9 and 23, September 13 and 27, and October 4 and 18).

 There will be 112 total hours of instruction (16 meetings of 7 hours/meeting).  Lunches will be working lunches.  Please bring a bag lunch.  Be prepared to hike outdoors in all weather.  You are encouraged to bring an extra change of clothes.

 
 

This program is designed to introduce the student to the basics of herbal medicine. At the end of the program the student will know how to safely and respectfully wildcraft, grow, and preserve the herbal harvest. They will understand the basic functions of the systems of the body. They will be capable of using personally prepared herbal medicines to improve health and heal common ailments. They will be prepared to continue learning new herbal skills and build upon a strong foundation of herbal knowledge.  They will create their own materia medica.

Students will receive substantial handouts that create an herbal manual. They will receive a suggested reading list. They will have access to Lichenwood Herbals library and will be able to borrow some books, cd’s, dvd’s, cassette tapes, and VHS tapes.

 
  

During class students will make tinctures, infused oils, herbal vinegars and tonics, herbal syrups, capsules, lozenges, salves, creams and lotions, teas, compresses, poultices, and other products. Students are responsible for purchasing some materials and will receive a list of items to be purchased at least one week prior to class, however, most materials are provided.   The cost of this program is $1000.

 
 

FLOWER ESSENCE INTENSIVES FOR 2010

 

This group of 3 intensive weekends replaces the former Flower Essence Practitioner Program.  It will still be possible to obtain certification by attending each weekend, and completing additional requirements (see below class descriptions).  However, each weekend is designed to be a complete experience.  Past students may wish to attend one or more of the weekends for the fun, sharing, and review.  Weekends will include hands on experience and lecture, copious detailed handouts for your future reference, and a small set of 10 basic stock essences.  There will be a one hour break for lunch. 

 

Weekend One: Co-Creation 

May 15-16      9am- 4:30pm             $250 (includes all materials)

 

Co-creating with Nature

Genesa Crystals

Plant Spirit Connection

Mother/Stock/Dose

Methods of Preservation and Storage

Meditation with flower essences

Plant identification

Plant walk (rain or shine, dress accordingly- Natural bug repellant provided)

Doctrine of Signatures~ Twelve Windows of Plant Perception

Methods of essence selection

Suggestions for further reading

 

Flower Essence Kit: Green Bells of Ireland, Yarrow Synergy, Lady’s Mantle, Comfrey, Angelica, St. Johnswort, Bleeding Heart, Apple, Chamomile, Blackberry

 

Weekend Two: Dynamics of Flower Essence Therapy 

June 12-13; 9am-4:30pm                      $250 (includes all materials)

 

 

Patterns of Healing and Strategies for Therapy

People Who Do Not Heal

Flower Essences for Animals (guest teacher)

Flower Essences for Pregnancy and Birth

Flower Essences for Children

Flower Essences for the Death Transition

Flower Essences for Relationships

Flower Essences for Physical Issues

Flower Essences for Depression

 

Flower Essence Kit: Aspen through Blue Quartz, White Bleeding Heart, Nettles, Evening Primrose, Motherwort, Sunflower, Pokeweed, Black Pansy, Cosmos, Black Eyed Susan

 
 

Weekend Three: Advanced Techniques and the Practice of Flower Essence Therapy

 September 25-26      9am- 4:30pm               $250 (includes all materials)

 Ethics of Flower Essence Consultation

Client Intake

The Consult

Consulting from a distance

Client communication

Record Keeping

Grids

Adjunct therapies (Reiki, Chiropractic, Massage, Crystal therapy, Herbalism, Aromatherapy)

Environmental uses of Flower Essences

Amulets

Group work with a “real” client

 Flower Essence Kit: Calendula, Lady’s Slipper, Buttercup, Wormwood, Agrimony, Dandelion, Spicebush, Tomato, Yellow Hawkweed, Lobelia

 
 

The certification process will require the following additional work:

 One meeting of 4-7 hours in length, of one on one coaching and instruction, arranged at the mutual convenience of the student and instructor.  There is a charge of $50 for this additional meeting.  This will be a time to hone your skills in areas where you are weakest, or areas you want to explore in depth.  We might spend this time on plant identification, going over class material, co-creating essences, meditating, doing personal essence work/selection- anything goes. 

 Two case studies, following two clients (“willing victims”) through 3 rounds of flower essence therapy must be written up.  Detailed instructions for conducting and writing your case studies will be provided.

 A thoughtful and thorough plant study, including co-creation and testing of a flower essence, must be written.  Form for this work will be given and examples provided.

 Anyone who completes all three of the weekends will be eligible for a practitioner discount on essences.  This is a 25% discount off retail price.

 I do provide a suggested reading list.  I do not require that you purchase any materials.  You will receive handouts that are substantial enough to require a 3 ring binder.  You will receive 10 stock flower essences at each class.  You will create an essence or essence product in each class.

 ase call or email Christine Tolf to discuss details of either program and arrange to visit Lichenwood. 

603-664-3393     [email protected]   www.lichenwood.com  

Snow Day

This window is my favorite snow globe.  As I look through the octagonal glass I can gaze upon woodland, pond, and stream from different angles.  Today is quintessentially New England Wintertime with falling snowflakes and all the ground unmarked by the passage of deer, turkey, or human traveler.  It's easy to get lost in the beauty and simply stand quietly watching this peaceful scene.

Inside, the air is scented with the bloom of Paperwhite Narcissus.  These bulbs are a particular favorite of mine and these specific flowers are even more special to me as they were a gift from visiting friends and former students, Dennie and Olga.  I'm beginning to feel the call to co-create with Narcissus papyraceus.  It is completely possible to co-create flower essences with potted plants.   More on that in a future post.

As is traditional at this time of year I have been planning, revising and revamping programs for 2010.  I have registrations in place for both the Herbal Mentorship which begins in early March, and for three Flower Essence Intensives (May, June, September).  

Dates for the Herbal Mentorship program are: Mondays from 9am-4pm, March 8 and 22, April 5 and 19, May 3 and 17, June 7 and 21, July 12 and 26, August 9 and 23, September 13 and 27, and October 4 and 18). 

There will be 112 total hours of instruction (16 meetings of 7 hours/meeting).  Lunches will be working lunches.  Please bring a bag lunch.  Be prepared to hike outdoors in all weather.  You are encouraged to bring an extra change of clothes. 

This program is designed to introduce the student to the basics of herbal medicine. At the end of the program the student will know how to safely and respectfully wildcraft, grow, and preserve the herbal harvest. They will understand the basic functions of the systems of the body. They will be capable of using personally prepared herbal medicines to improve health and heal common ailments. They will be prepared to continue learning new herbal skills and build upon a strong foundation of herbal knowledge. They will create their own materia medica.

Students will receive substantial handouts that create an herbal manual. They will receive a suggested reading list. They will have access to Lichenwood Herbals library and will be able to borrow some books, cd’s, dvd’s, cassette tapes, and VHS tapes.

During class students will make tinctures, infused oils, herbal vinegars and tonics, herbal syrups, capsules, lozenges, salves, creams and lotions, teas, compresses, poultices, and other products. Students are responsible for purchasing some materials and will receive a list of items to be purchased at least one week prior to class, however, most materials are provided.   The cost of this program is $1000.  Please contact me directly ([email protected]) or 603-664-3393 for more information, to arrange a visit, or to receive an application.

A group of 3 intensive weekends replaces the former Flower Essence Practitioner Program.  It will still be possible to obtain certification by attending each weekend, and completing additional requirements (see below class descriptions).  However, each weekend is designed to be a complete experience.  Past students may wish to attend one or more of the weekends for the fun, sharing, and review.  Weekends will include hands on experience and lecture, copious detailed handouts for your future reference, and a small set of 10 basic stock essences.  There will be a one hour break for lunch.  

Weekend One: Co-Creation  

May 15-16      9am- 4:30pm             $250 (includes all materials)

Co-creating with Nature

Genesa Crystals

Plant Spirit Connection

Mother/Stock/Dose

Methods of Preservation and Storage

Meditation with flower essences

Plant identification

Plant walk (rain or shine, dress accordingly- Natural bug repellant provided)

Doctrine of Signatures~ Twelve Windows of Plant Perception

Methods of essence selection

Suggestions for further reading

You will receive the following Flower Essence Kit: Green Bells of Ireland, Yarrow Synergy, Lady’s Mantle, Comfrey, Angelica, St. Johnswort, Bleeding Heart, Apple, Chamomile, Blackberry

 Weekend Two: Dynamics of Flower Essence Therapy  

June 12-13; 9am-4:30pm                      $250 (includes all materials)

Patterns of Healing and Strategies for Therapy

People Who Do Not Heal

Flower Essences for Animals (guest teacher)

Flower Essences for Pregnancy and Birth

Flower Essences for Children

Flower Essences for the Death Transition

Flower Essences for Relationships

Flower Essences for Physical Issues

Flower Essences for Depression

You will receive the following Flower Essence Kit:: Aspen through Blue Quartz, White Bleeding Heart, Nettles, Evening Primrose, Motherwort, Sunflower, Pokeweed, Black Pansy, Cosmos, Black Eyed Susan

Weekend Three: Advanced Techniques and the Practice of Flower Essence Therapy 

September 25-26      9am- 4:30pm             $250 (includes all materials)

Ethics of Flower Essence Consultation

Client Intake

The Consult

Consulting from a distance

Client communication

Record Keeping 

Grids

Adjunct therapies (Reiki, Chiropractic, Massage, Crystal therapy, Herbalism, Aromatherapy)

Environmental uses of Flower Essences

Amulets

Group work with a “real” client

You will receive the following Flower Essence Kit: Calendula, Lady’s Slipper, Buttercup, Wormwood, Agrimony, Dandelion, Spicebush, Tomato, Yellow Hawkweed, Lobelia

The certification process will require the following additional work:

One meeting of 4-7 hours in length, of one on one coaching and instruction, arranged at the mutual convenience of the student and instructor.  There is a charge of $50 for this additional meeting.  This will be a time to hone your skills in areas where you are weakest, or areas you want to explore in depth.  We might spend this time on plant identification, going over class material, co-creating essences, meditating, doing personal essence work/selection- anything goes.  

Two case studies, following two clients (“willing victims”) through 3 rounds of flower essence therapy must be written up.  Detailed instructions for conducting and writing your case studies will be provided.

A thoughtful and thorough plant study, including co-creation and testing of a flower essence, must be written.  Form for this work will be given and examples provided.

Anyone who completes all three of the weekends will be eligible for a practitioner discount on essences. This is a 25% discount off retail price.

I do provide a suggested reading list.  I do not require that you purchase any materials.  You will receive handouts that are substantial enough to require a 3 ring binder.  You will receive 10 stock flower essences at each class.  You will create an essence or essence product in each class.

Specifics of this description may change without notice.

Payment:  I accept cash, checks and Paypal ([email protected]).  Reserve your space with a $50 deposit for each class, $150 for the series.  The remainder ($200 per class) may be paid on the day of class.  The additional coaching class for students seeking practitioner certification must be paid prior to or on the day of class.

Anyone is welcome to participate in the flower essence classes.  If you are considering the Flower Essence Practitioner Certification, I would suggest an interview at Lichenwood prior to enrollment.  This gives you a chance to see the facility and to ask lots of questions before making a commitment.

And finally, if you are getting cabin fever, come on down to Sun Moon Stars, a simply wonderful high energy new herbal emporium in Rollinsford, New Hampshire, on Saturday, January 30th.  I'll be there from 1-3pm teaching Exploring Flower Essences.  This class is for people of all levels of interest who want to know how to use flower essences in their daily life.  In this short class you will discover how flowers share their healing with the world and how you can effectively choose essences for yourself and combine them with other modalities of healing.  You will leave with a flower essence dosage blend for yourself, a blend that you will choose with the help of the instructor.  Handout and flower essence blend included.  If you have a pendulum, please bring it with you.  Pendulums will be available to borrow for those who do not have one.  Cost is $30. You do need to preregister, so call Dawn Evans at Sun Moon Stars 603-617-3590 and sign up!

  

At the Rainbow's End

Yes, it has been a summer filled with rain, but it has also brought several glorious rainbows to Lichenwood, including this magnificent double rainbow!  There is always an upside to be found at the end of every rainy day.  Our treasured end of the rainbow here at LIchenwood includes, not only the colorful arches of light that form over the treetops, but also our gardens and our workshop offerings!

The herb gardens are taking on a more mature look.  We truly had no gardens whatsoever when we moved in at the end of 2007.  Now we are eating food from the vegetable garden and harvesting medicinals from the herb gardens as well as the wild fields and forests.  Our roots are finally deep in the soil. 

We've had almost two complete turns of the Wheel of the Year here in Barrington.  I'm about to complete the second incarnation of the Herbal Mentorship and I've completely re-vamped the Flower Essence Practitioner Training into a group of three weekend Flower Essence Instensives, designed to be stand alone classes, or in combination, with additional documentation, a certification class.  I'll be announcing dates and particulars soon.  Contact me for more information directly: [email protected] .

As we move toward September, I'm eagerly anticipating another workshop with Kate Leigh.  The only workshops and teachers that I bring to LIchenwood are the ones that I find most inspirational!  I'm passionate about the topics that these teachers present!  This time Kate will combine her expertise in both aromatherapy and astrology in the following class:

AROMAS CLASS
With Kate Leigh of Midheaven, Market Square, Portsmouth,New Hampshire

Kate says: This aromas class is gathering near the time of the autumnal equinox. This is especially significant, given the role of balancing that essential oils, or plant distillates, play in our well-being. It is my idea that we will work together that day, combining the basics of our own specific personalities, as shown in our birth charts, with the basics of aromatherapy, as seen by familiarizing ourselves with the properties of the distillates. My facilitation will take the form of making available a copy of your birth chart to you in class, as compiled by information you will supply at the time you register for the class. I will also provide sets of handouts, specifying the distillates and their associated properties, but also their traditional associations with the elements, and planets. In the morning, we will familiarize ourselves with the oils/distillates on hand, approximately 3 dozen or so. Then we will move on to our birth charts, and talk over the basics of fire, earth, air, and water, and help each participant find these in their charts. Key words for the symbols used in the charts will be provided. Our goal will be to create a product, to be used, and recorded, so it can be duplicated by you, that is aroma-characteristic of you, according to your birth chart. The actual containers and oils/distillates used to make the products will be provided by the instructor. Please consider attending this class, even if you are a beginner in both aromas and astrology. We will keep things fun and simple, while learning, through contact and engagement, a great deal, about the essential oils/distillates, and about ourselves. Just in time to enter the close of the year! These products will help sustain our spirits.

Kate Leigh has been involved in aromatherapy for over 30 years, has taught dozens of workshops to nurses, massage therapists, and other interested people. She has also studied astrology for decades and has experience both with chart interpretation, and combining astrology with other therapies, such as aromatics. Kate enjoys a long term private practice in massage therapy, where she hand crafts her own products and regularly uses heated seashells as an imaginative inclusion in her bodywork.

Check Kate out on facebook, at Midheaven Massage. $90 for a full day, includes materials.

Call 603-664-3393 or email [email protected] to register for this class.  You can also find Christine hanging out on Facebook.  There is also a page for Lichenwood Herbals.  Look us up! 

Additional workshops for the fall are listed at www.lichenwood.com .

 

Spring at Lichenwood: Don't Blink!

 

Spring is here.  This season is so full of anticipation each day.  What will emerge from the ground?  What will bloom?  Did last year's garden additions make it through the long cold Winter?  Don't miss a day outside.  The wildflowers of late April and early May are not called "Spring ephemerals" for nothing.  They are here one day and gone the next.  This gorgeous Bloodroot bloom was gone by afternoon, all the petals fallen, and a seed capsule forming.  Carpe diem!

The healing theme addressed by Blooroot flower essence is one of balance, concentration and focus. Bloodroot flower essence helps those who need to focus, especially when difficulty with this in an inherited family trait. It is useful in meditation, aiding one in entering the alpha state more easily. It helps with self-understanding, easing one through times of self-transformation, especially if there is a feeling of social isolation. Someone who takes this essence will seek help from the community around them by communicating their problems and issues in an appropriate way, dealing with them, and enhancing their feelings of self-acceptance and worthiness. Old emotional wounds heal and there is an understanding of the divine purpose for which we entered the Earth plane. We reach the understanding that we are the sum of our experiences and we can now embrace our “roots” as part of the path that has led us to enlightenment.

 

Above is Lungwort which came to Lichenwood through the love and generosity of friends Lynn and William Kuegel, along with a whole tribe of friends who seem to have made the transition to life in Barrington.  Friendship gardens are the best.  I've been wanting to make a Lungwort flower essence for a long time.  While it's hard to wait, it seems best to let the plant spirit settle in here before I ask it to co-create a flower essence.

 

Along with fleeting flower blossoms come the animal babies of Spring.  This little turtle, about the size of a half dollar, was resting near the brook when I came upon him/her.  Eastern painted turtle was the first (and so far the only) animal essence I've ever made.  I am looking forward to lots of turtle watching on the pond this year.

The Eastern Painted Turtle essence is all about helping us feel protected and grounded.  In any situation where we feel uncertain, or need to stand our ground, this essence will be very helpful.  Since this is the only animal essence that I have made, it is not listed on my website.  If you'd like a bottle, the cost is the same as the stock flower essences- just $8 for a half ounce bottle. 

  

In other matters, potential students interested in the Aromatherapy workshop expressed conflicts with the scheduled date of May 2nd, so Kate and I have decided to reschedule the this class.  It will now meet on Saturday, June 6th.  In additon other topics, Kate will be discussing aromatherapy's role in treating/avoiding Swine Flu.  Below is the information on the class:

My favorite aromatherapy teacher, mentor, and healer, Kate Leigh of Midheaven, Market Square, Portsmouth, will be presenting an all day workshop at Lichenwood on the first Saturday in June. Come sit around the table and sample a wide assortment of essential oils. Kate has just returned from Pacific Institute of Aromatherapy's annual conference where she participated as a facilitator. The topic of the conference was cancer, autoimmune, and degenerative diseases. She has much to share on these topics.

So please join Kate Leigh, aromatherapist and educator, for a day long adventure with essential oils, their lore and allure, their medicinal values, and their practical applications. Kate will share information recently gathered at an international conference, at which researchers and practitioners from around the globe, sharing a passion for plant medicine, presented their ideas and findings. During the workshop, essential oils will be passed around and experienced directly. Demonstrations of their effectiveness will be offered to the group, as needs arise within the class. Kate's style is direct, humorous, informal, and informative. Come prepared to learn, ask burning questions, and have fun!

Kate Leigh has pioneered in the field of aromatherapy in this part of the country. Originally beginning her studies in California, while residing there in the early 1970s, Kate has shared her knowledge of essential oils for the last 27 years here in New Hampshire and Maine, with massage therapists and other complementary modality healers. Kate is also a living example of someone who has used essential oils daily for decades, and every day in her massage therapy practice. Energized by her work and interests, she looks forward to blending frequencies with the participants of this workshop!

$90 for a full day includes materials.
Call 664-3393  or email me at [email protected] for details, questions, and to register for class.