Addresing Porn Addiction with Flower Essences

The internet has brought many changes to world and like any other advance in human technology there is a shadow and light because we carry the shadow and the light within us. Technology seems to have magnified each aspect as it has no allegiance.  With sexuality a most potent part of the human experience there is the potential for either exaltation or debasement. The only other energy we deal with that has similar consequences is money and there is a strong relationship between the two. But, we will focus solely on sexuality and the exaggerated shadow potential exploited by the internet.

The internet, on par with the wheel as one of the greatest of human inventions, possibly. The internet has led to pornography being much easier to access and both the medium and content play off each other. I recently read a piece in a local newspaper, it was in the advice column, a young woman of 14 was asking for dating advice. The boy she was interested in confessed to her that he had an internet porn addiction.  A 14 year old, young impressionable developing boy, saturating his consciousness with unreal images of hyper sexuality, folks, I am concerned by this.

 The delicate nature of human sexuality requires us to be as impeccable as possible with our behavior, so we avoid spreading undue pain, suffering and trauma. Our sexuality has such a deep influence on our lives and once we take responsibility for it and recognize its power and influence we can begin to  handle this energy with greater love and awareness. But if we continue to repress it be scared of it and generally shove into the shadows of our life, it will come out in deformed and disfigured ways that are only half of its potential. This is what I see with pornography; it is a half expression, it is the gross physical devoid of the sensitive emotional side. It expresses power and aggression along with a sexualization of this type of behavior.

Flower Essences
There are many aspects to this picture that flower essences touch on and in the rest of this post you will learn about which essences apply to issues related to 'clandestine' sexual behavior and compulsion.

Basil: This is a core remedy for addressing the split of sexuality from any modicum of soul warmth.  It is a specifically indicated for porn addiction.

Baby Blue Eyes- For the sense of loss of innocence related to exposure to graphic images which distort the understanding of how human relate.

Chapparal:This remedy is a psychic cleanser, it is useful to clean debris and residue that accumulates in the psyche when it has been exposed to violent and degrading images.

Mariposa Lily: This remedy fosters a deep connection with the maternal, it is helpful for those who have wounding related to poor mothering.  It helps us connect with the divine feminine and those qualities of nurture that come from a strong mother/child bond. Useful when that repair damage from this lack of core bonding. 

The Monkeyflower Family: This group of essences deals with fears, a variety of fears related to emotions and our emotional life.

Pink: This essence treats fear of being exposed, due to feelings of shame, guilt or unworthiness. Those needing this remedy are often afraid to be seen both literally and metaphorically. Pink Monkeyflower helps one feel at ease emotionally and encourages emotional openness and honesty. It also helps one have the courage to take emotional risks with others. 

Scarlet: This essence is for those who are afraid of deep emotions and intense feelings. Often these intense feelings or emotions get repressed out of fear. Scarlet Monkey Flower helps one to get in touch with strong emotions, it promotes emotional honesty and integration of deep emotions, especially of the emotional ‘shadow’.  It also gives people the courage to express intense feeling and emotions. Useful for sexual repression. 

Sticky: This essence balances the integration of human warmth and sexual intimacy; it helps one to express deep feelings of love and connectedness, especially in sexual relationships. Helpful when there is a fear of intimacy, repressed sexual feelings and an inability to experience warmth in sexual experiences.

Hibiscus: Warmth and responsiveness in sexuality; integration of soul warmth and bodily passion.  Helps when there is an inability to enjoy sexual experiences; lack of warmth due to abuse or exploitation.

Holly: Holly is an excellent remedy to treat anger, jealousy and envy. It is helpful if something in your personality prevents you from experiencing happiness. This can be very corrosive when left unchecked. Holly is also helpful for treating bitterness and suspicion, which corrupts the ability to love. This essence engenders compassion in the heart and soul, enhancing the ability to love inclusively. This is a tremendously powerful remedy that helps you feel and channel love through your heart and extend it to others. Dr. Bach felt Holly was one of the most important and widely applicable remedies.

Pine: Useful when guilt is the driving force behind sexual behavior. As a society we are not taught how to handle our sexual energy in a healthy way, it often comes with a large amount of guilt and creates a cycle. Where we indulge then feel guilty, Pine will help stop this viscous cycle of self incrimination and help you to accept yourself and your behaviors.

Snapdragon: This essence is for mis-placed libido energy, when the libido is strong and is repressed energy builds up. This pent up energy has a tendency to be expressed as anger, aggression and frustration. It is often misdirected and leads to harm.

The Gifts of Longing

The human experience is quite a profound journey our souls undertake. The learning our souls receive from being on earth with all its beauty and complexities cannot be measured. When I speak of soul I am not referring to anything abstract or fringe, the soul is an essential "part" of our whole selves. Orthodox medicine has left soul out of the picture, soul is the domain of religion.  Well at least this is how it has been for a while. 


The beauty of essences and the beauty of Dr. Bach is that soul is not separate from the equation of health and wellness, do I say it is essential? This talk of soul may rub some the wrong way and that is ok, for there is no scientific proof of a soul, you can't point to it or pin it down. There are many things we cannot see and we don't deny their importance either. Air, Electricity, Thoughts, Memories and so on, but we accept that they are there and carry on. 


Dr. Bach was a keen fellow an extremely keen fellow who bucked the system and forged a new path, he was a true pioneer, he understood soul and its importance. And, if you read some of his writings it is apparent that he knew the depth soul played in the realm of human experience, wellness and well being. Not many folks are going to come out and say this: The health of your soul is important to the health of your body and life. 

There are times in life when the crucible of existence forges our life in deep and profound ways, times when our soul is tested. This testing also works on the psyche and all its complexities. And, if we can remember in these times the importance of our soul and its role in the play of our lives we might find some solace.  I want to talk about two remedies that can be helpful in times of such soul testing: Sweet Chestnut and Cherry Plum.

Sweet Chestnut: is like a friend from the realm of nature; extending a hand of service to soul and psyche as it swirls in the depths of human suffering. This suffering is the crucible; it is something we all go through more than once in life, it is a gift, challenge and marks a change in how we live life. While in the throes of such a challenge we may not see it as such and feel that we are being punished.  It is agonizing to feel so alone in our pain but if you see it through you will come out changed. Sweet Chestnut is beneficial for times referred to as 'the dark night of the soul' times of deep despair, human pain, anguish and soul suffering. Sweet Chestnut offers support a deep level fostering faith in adversity and communion in solitude; it is a profound remedy that offers support for times of deep suffering. On a different level, tooth aches can cause deep agony and consume us with turmoil and I have found Sweet Chestnut works well for this and other times when physical pain tests our psyche.

Cherry Plum: this light filled remedy can help to illuminate the dark corners of the mind when the pain of our suffering brings such mental anguish that we fear we may lose our minds or end our life.  Cherry blossoms fill the spring air with light, the gentleness of their white blossoms are celebrated around the world. Their light bearing quality can help the soul that feels it is on the edge of collapse due to emotional pain and stress. During these times the quality of surrender can help to release the pain and tension; the light Cherry Plum carries is a spiritual light which can guide the soul as it moves through its challenges.

In these days of pharmaceutical glory we have become accustomed to the idea of a fix, this is very normal and I will say in-balance with society. How are we to function in our day to day under such pain and stress? If a pill can help us to carry on then we are functioning in a way that is in-balance with the dictates of our social order.  Note the one letter difference and phonetic sameness of imbalance and in-balance. 

But, all this leaves out the function of the soul and its importance and how we can grow as people from such profound anguish. I am not knocking drugs, just pointing out the limited range in which they function. Where as you have a great range that you can experience and the more you embrace this range the more at peace you may become with the ebbs and flows of the soul life, psyche and emotions.

May the gifts of the flowers bless your soul with healing touch of nature.


Mark D'Aquila

Flower Essence for Shy Students

In this post I will cover a variety of Single Flower Essences for students. This post will address topics such as studying, learning, focus and concentration. These suggestions should be considered adjuncts to a regime of diligence, interest and effort in regards to school and studying. 

When shy students exhibit low self esteem and low self confidence   the pressure of learning may only re-enforce a false belief that they are not capable of the succeeding in school.  Usually they are capable but have yet to find their groove within the structured environment of school. This can be challenging especially for those sensitive students who are easily influenced by their environment.

Clematis- this is the remedy of choice for the dreamer, for the student who has trouble staying connected to what is going on. It helps one to remain present, connected and alleviate mental fog.

Elm- is the stress of what is requested of you testing you ability to maintain your poise. Do you feel unable to handle the pressure of tests and the testing environment? Consider elm to help you in times like these.

Gentian- Has a low test score got you down? Is there a subject you struggle with and just can't seem to get right? Gentian, encourages faith, hope and perseverance in the face of such challenges.

Larch- The power of larch is that it supports us in overcoming the fear of failure. Often those needing this remedy are perfectly capable yet lack the needed confidence to achieve their desired results.

Hornbeam- When weariness has set in this is the go to remedy, great for those who get tired from studying.

Rosemary- This essence is for bringing greater vitality to the whole thinking and cognitive process. This is helpful when feelings of dullness take over, rosemary restores interest and vitality.

Mimulus- Useful when shyness is encountered in the face of challenges.

Sunflower- This remedy fosters sun-like radiant forces within us. This remedy is great for building confidence and for overcoming fear of failure.

Missouri Primrose- This remedy is for connecting with feelings of worthiness.

Mountain Pride- This essence fosters great forces of resilience helping one to confront challenges.

Pink Yarrow- This essence supports emotional boundaries. By helping us to not take on the emotions of others, good for the sensitive soul who is too easily influenced by the thoughts and feelings of others.  

Wild Rose- Has the system your in produced apathy? When we feel we are on the fringe and neglected we can become apathetic and this cycle will feed itself.  Wild rose helps us confront apathy and move forward with renewed interest and vitality. 

Water Violet- I am including this often overlooked essence because it touches on key emotions common with shy and/or sensitive people. They tend to withdraw and avoid confrontation and competition and school has become an increasingly competitive environment.  This essence will also assist those of a sensitive nature to break out and form social bonds, this can greatly increase their confidence and lead to an overall improvement in school. Consider this essence for the withdrawn shy, sensitive soul. 


Everyone is unique and these remedies are presented as possible options for the shy student who is plagued by low self esteem and low self confidence. 

Visit our Store to Shop where you can make a formula from any of the remedies mentioned here.

Disclaimer:
This is NOT medical advice, the information presented here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition.

Bloodroot Flower Essence

Bloodroot

Bloodroot flower is an eastern woodland plant, it is common but threatened because its habitat is shrinking. It is a low growing plant with a striking white flower.  As a flower essence it is used for issues related to identity.  Kate Gilday of Woodland Essences says this about it:
"Trusting one will be protected as one moves forward in her/his evolution. Helps one find the courage and inner resources to heal old wounds and move from a place of despair and darkness to the light. Embracing one’s inner light." 


The essence is from her forest flower and At-Risk-North American plant flower essence kits; which is available at our webstore.

Desert Alchemy also has a bloodroot flower essence, they have this to say about it:
"Bloodroot is for those who exclude themselves, or feel ostracized, from a group or community, usually because of deep feelings of unworthiness. It helps heal the wounds of rejection and free us from the bonds of unworthiness."

This essence is about healing wounds related to the past often infringe on us in the present. This past wounding is often related to our early life experiences with family and community. When we heal these foundation issues and experiences at a deep level we can bring about improvement in all areas of life. 

Flower Essences and Astrology

This piece is from the work of Stephanie Gailing. I encourage you to visit her site Planetary Apothecary for in depth accurate astrological information, be sure to sign up for her newsletter as well.

Mars the planet of action is set to go retrograde on the 23rd of January and scarlet monkeyflower can help address some of the issues that result from this. Mars will be retrograde until the 13th of April, if any time during this period you are challenged by deep unexpressed powerful emotions, consider how scarlet monkeyflower can help. Read what Stephanie has to say to learn more.

Scarlet Monkeyflower flower essence: If we have challenges expressing our anger (often the case when Mars is retrograde), we sometimes think that by just ignoring or repressing it, the feelings will go away. Yet, that’s not usually the case; rather, they just churn within until, at some moment, they either seep out or we reach a full-fledged emotional explosion. If you want help accepting and embracing feelings of anger, as well as compassionate assistance to courageously communicate how you feel, Scarlet Monkeyflower flower essence may be of great value.

To read the full post please visit Planetary Apothecary.

Concerned About World Events?

THE SKY IS FALLING? IS THE SKY FALLING?

Are you plagued by the state of the world? Do you feel oppressed by the potential for disaster? If you tune into the news you might just think the sky is falling. Should you be concerned? What should you do? There does not seem to be a right answer but one thing you definitely can do is maintain a positive attitude. Essentially that is all. Some might say this is foolish and you are fooling yourself. Chances are they are tied into the doom and gloom of it all.

Maintaining a Positive Outlook
What else do you have? What is really yours? It is one thing you do have control over, how you choose to view and/or interpret the what is going on around you. If you get caught up in the emotions of things chances are you will begin to loose perspective. You can remain detached and engaged from your chosen perspective. Where does a negative perspective ever get you? Besides being detrimental to the immune system, there is enough negativity out there and you do not need to feed the cycle with your energy. It is a choice, remaining positive is no more illusionary than remaining negative. I will admit there is a weight to issues with grave concerns but how do you respond?

Flower Essences
This site and blog is about flower essences, so you should have guessed I would have gotten to them at some point. There are from FES, Flower Essence Services.

Mountain Pride and Scotch Broom

Mountain Pride
The name alone suggests strength and determination and this essence is about strength and determination in the face of challenges. And, folks these are challenging times and they challenge our ability to maintain peace of mind and a positive outlook, which is what we need. Use this essence to encourage "forthright masculine energy"; sounds refreshing to me, straight forward honest masculine energy. The essence description goes on, . . . "which confronts and transforms" what they are talking about is the archetype of the spiritual warrior. A very useful energy for ones own life and life as a whole.

Scotch Broom

Scotch Broom
This bright yellow floor is harbinger of optimism, it shines brightly and heralds a new the approach of a new attitude, anchored in an sunny outlook. The joy of flowers and the power of color win again. Scotch broom is indicated for those who are depressed and disheartened by world events. Gosh, at this rate wouldn't mind giving this to everyone . . . Scotch broom helps us to feel more optimistic about world events and as we know this can go a long way in helping to enjoy life in general.

Bottom line is we can all do our part to help make this world a world we want to live in. We can do this by taking charge of our own thoughts and feelings. I feel this is important because it is personally empowering and the more we feel empowered in our own life the better. I understand there is not much we can do about geo-politics but we can at least make our sphere of the world a better place, essentially that is all we can do.

Protection Essences

Let's explore "Protection Essences" and how they help to insulate, shield and protect our energy bodies. We live in a multi dimensional universe, teeming with unseen energies some are supportive and some not. These energies may come from another person, electronic devices or from within ourselves as voices of the past or from less than supportive parts of our psyche. This post will explore essence to help you maintain a positive outlook on life. Maintaining positive energy and feeling safe can go a long way in helping your overall sense of well being. It is a key in the pursuit of health, well being and personal fulfillment. Seems perfect for today Friday the 13th and all its superstitions.


Walnut
I feel this Bach remedy is the #1 go to remedy when you are making a break from the past. This essence is beneficial during times of change and transition that mark progress in a new direction. Examples include moving, changing careers or ending a relationship. These are some of the more obvious examples. On a very keen and subtle level Walnut insulates and protects us from outside influence so that we can proceed in our direction of choice. Meaning you've decided to move forward, yet there are many things from the past that are still influencing you. Walnut flower essence helps to break the "spell of the past" so you can proceed forward with greater ease, confidence and assurance.

Yarrow
This essence is the number one go to essence to enhance the integrity of the auric field. Our aura is like a shield which protects us from unwanted energetic influences. By strengthening the auric field we become less susceptible to negative influences. This is vital because negative influences rob us of life vitality. Use this essence when you want to protect yourself from energetic vampires, negative/pessimistic people and from areas you feel are toxic to the psyche. This is also useful when we are in environments with a high level of e-smog, from electronic devices. This essence is made by FES.



Angelica
This essence offers us Angelic support, as its name suggests. Angelica has a very distinct action and is useful in times of upheaval, stress and major change. This essence seals our energy field in a softening and protective blue light. Angelica is a very soothing, comforting essence, great for children who feel vulnerable and unsafe. This essence is made by FES.


Garlic
This essence acts as a repellent against outside influences. Garlic sets up a vibration in the energy field that is not appealing to parasitic and adverse influences. Historically it was used to ward off evil influences and the essence works in the same way. To vibrationally repel parasitic, vampiric and other influences that drain us energetically. This essence is made by FES.


Mountain Pennyroyal
This essence helps repel negative thought forms as well as protect you from negative thought forms you may have already absorbed. It enhances strength and clarity of thought and encourages a positive mental attitude. This essence is made by FES.

Closing Thoughts
These remedies can play an important role in the treatment process and in everyday life. Your mental integrity and positive outlook go a long way to creating what is termed 'reality'. If you are in a cycle of positive energy and flow this energy into your life, you will find life responds accordingly. The basic foundation of life is vibration and managing your vibration is key to health and healing. I believe in the power of these remedies and the power of positivity in helping you achieve improved health and well being.

Before I go I want to mention one last essence.

Ti Plant
This is a really unique essence and its latin name is a clue to the action of this essence. The latin name for the Ti plant is cordeyline terminalis. This essence is an important cord cutter, not only does it cut cords but it carries a huge amount of light into the system. Its white light potential is almost blinding. Ti plant was used by the native people of Hawaii to break hexes. I have a tag line for this essence: "Clears the Path to Power" the power referred to here is personal power in your own life. This essence is a gift and carries huge potential for use in a variety of situations. This essence is made by Elemental Garden Remedies.

My heartfelt wish is for you to all live a happy healthy life and share you goodwill with all.
Mark D'Aquila
Essence Alchemy