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wise woman life

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Mary Tree

This week I read in the Dutch newspapers that the Marialinde—Mary tree in Dutch—in Oisterwijk has been elected tree of the year. This tree is at least 650 years old. Its name reveals that this specific tree was important to our ancestors. Linden trees were seen as powerful magical protective trees and were often the first to appear in a new settlement. They played a role in many important social rituals. When christianity gained the upper hand, the church was unable to eradicate this custom, so the tree in question was adopted and christianised. You can read more about Linden’s magical properties and also about its medicinal effects in the monograph elsewhere on this website.

Meanwhile, at my place…

Well, the books are all on their way to their new homes. I can actually move around in the house again. Now is the time to fill you in on…

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My most important task is to inform people who want to get back onto their own path. Who want to trust themselves again, every aspect of themselves, their mind, their heart and their body. I help them see the stories, taught through upbringing and cultural frameworks, for what they are, recognise the voice of their own intuition and find the strength to follow it, on their way to health and happiness.

That’s the red thread through all my work. In small ways, by sharing knowledge, thus enabling people to take care of themselves. And in larger ways, by always asking questions, challenging the status quo…

Mouse, beetles and flies image

Mouse, beetles and flies

Nature’s cycles, the circle of life in action.

I came across this mouse today while walking in local woods. I filmed as it was being eaten by burying beetles (Nicrophorus vespilloides) and carrion flies. While around us everything is growing and coming to fruition, death is still also very much part of life.

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If you can’t say ‘yes’ wholeheartedly, there’s always ‘no’. ‘No’ is an answer too. In fact, sometimes it’s the only possible answer.

Many of us, especially women, have been taught never to say no. Learning to say no is often an important step towards healing, physically and mentally and spiritually. If you can’t say ‘yes’ wholeheartedly, just say no for a change.

Emma, hagetisse
Rooks nesting image

Rooks nesting

Some plants are better left alone, unless you’re an expert on medicinal and therapeutic usage

One of the plants in my garden that I wouldn't recommend for medicinal usage unless you're an expert is foxglove, Digitalis purpurea. This plant has brilliant medicinal properties, but is…

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Stillness

Wow, that was quite a rollercoaster, this past Yuletide and a bit longer than that as well.

Shortly after asking you about your ideal place to live (thanks for the many inspiring responses!), I fell quite ill. Additionally, my dearest companion, Chelik, deteriorated rapidly. He was already an old man, but still… I never left his side and tried everything to help him. Towards the end as well, when helping meant being there for him continuously, to ensure his transition would be as peaceful as possible.

Meanwhile, I feel better, although I am still rather tired. I just give into that and everything else at play. Over the years, I’ve learned that during tough times, it works well for me to come to a bit of a standstill. To let whatever needs to be there be there without resisting it.

That doesn’t mean I do nothing. I write, read and walk a lot. I handle the necessary ongoing matters. I spend time with my family members but also a lot of time alone. Just sitting or hanging around or staring into space. But I do avoid doing anything that could have significant future consequences. Now is not the time for that. That time will come again, of course. I’ll feel it when it does.

What helps you get through the tougher times?

Walk with me (Oranjewoud) image

Walk with me (Oranjewoud)

Whenever disconnectedness looms (see yesterday’s nugget) there’s always the forest. I try to go there every day, just to wind down from all society’s madness. It never fails to keep me firmly rooted in what I know matters most…

I often have the most wonderful encounters, like the one with herd of deer the other day. Or the jays who had a message for me over the last month or so. Or the caterpillar that I’ll be sure to share with you soon ❤️

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