I went out today with the intention of foraging water mint which grows wild beside the burn.
I like to gather herbs at new moon or full moon as their flavours and energy seem particularly potent around these dates. I also find my best preserves are made around these times as well.
As I gathered these beautiful tender mint leaves I noticed the prettiest forget-me-nots growing through them. Close by, mares tail was waving her distinctive fronds, refusing to be ignored.
When I go out in nature I always leave my mind open to any messages or prompts that want to come through .. unless I have a very specific question to ask, in which case I would set a clearly defined intention before hand.
I remembered that today, June 25th, would have been my younger sister's birthday if she were still with us, so it felt appropriate to pick a few forget-me-nots and spend some time sitting in quiet reflection beside the water. As I sat and listened to the burn tumbling over the stones I could hear a harmony of deeper tones and notes in the water and ended up singing them back as an offering. A lovely moment of impromptu ceremony.
It seemed to me that the herbs all brought their own meaning to the experience.
The mint patch dies back in winter and is completely submerged for weeks beneath the high fast flowing water that comes down the glen at that time of year. Similarly the mares tail has extensive roots which enrich the soil , remaining in place to regenerate when the time is right. Even though they are not always visible they are both tenacious and steadfast plants reminding me that as we cycle through the seasons, so long as we remain firm in our resolve there will always be times to let go and then opportunities to begin again.
Mint is well known for it culinary flavour and soothing effect on the digestive system - I love her freshness of character plus the clarity, focus and positive energy that traditionally comes when working with this herb.
Mares tail is rich in minerals which is why it is recommended for bone healing. Also brings the power to define boundaries and is associated with affirmations and commitment. Given that I am navigating the early days of this new website, becoming more visible, seeking clarity on the direction it will all take, it seems very reassuring that these plants should be the ones which showed up today.
And dear little gentle for-get-me-not, holding sacred my memories of my sister, and the bond we had which transcends time and distance.
Home now to start the process of drying the mint to keep for herbal tea blends and flavouring the jellies which I shall make in the months to come. Enjoying the aroma in my kitchen.
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