Peace & Reflection
Winter comes, bringing with her dark, frosty nights and a bare-bones landscape against a cold sky. For those of us who love the warmth and light of summer, this can be a challenging time; in fact, I used to dread the coming of winter and complain about it endlessly until I finally realized two things. Firstly, winter was going to come whether I liked it or not, and there was nothing I could do to change that.
Secondly, and perhaps more powerfully, what I saw as a dead and dreary season was, in fact, anything but. Winter is an essential part of the wonderful cycle of life on this earth, a time when things are stripped back to the basics. Growth continues but in a different and subtle way, just as the cold earth holds the seeds of the new growth in spring. And we can also learn from the many animals who hibernate, retreating to a safe space in order to rest and restore themselves for the coming year.
It’s possible to do something similar with our lives, for the winter months offer us a chance to turn inward, rest, and reflect on who we are and what it is that lights us up (and, conversely, what it is that drains our joy and energy). Obviously, the various holidays celebrated over the cold months bring with them not only joy and celebration but also stress and overload as we juggle the many things we have to do, all of which make taking time to explore our own inner being and what we need on a physical, spiritual, and emotional level for wellness and self-care even more crucial.
Using the natural world as a guide and teacher, we can make each winter a gift—something that warms us from within and gives us reason to celebrate, no matter how chilly the weather outside. Harnessing the power of herbs, spices, leaves, and fruit, we can create delicious and healthy ways of supporting ourselves on every level as we grow into a greater sense of peace and self-awareness.
Heart Notes
Let us take this new winter season as a beautiful opportunity to discover a little more about ourselves and what brings us peace and serenity in the simplest and most accessible of ways. May we continue to grow just like our mother the earth, who looks cold and frozen at this time of year while under the quiet earth she is alive with the promise of new and wonderful things.
No matter how much we love walking, sometimes the thought of walking on a very cold rainy or snowy day can be challenging, to say the least; it’s easier to stay indoors where it’s warm and cozy. But we owe it to ourselves to be outside and maintain our connection with the natural world in this quiet season too; this can become a wisdom time as we walk reflectively through the clear winter landscape. There are two simple rules to follow. One, don’t think too much about doing it: just go ahead and do it. And two, always dress very warmly. (As the old Swedish saying goes, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!)
Realistically, though, we will only enjoy winter walking if we are comfortable in our skins, and that means, in particular, sturdy footwear as well as warm feet, hands, and heads. That way we can focus on the beauty that surrounds us instead of dwelling on physical niggles like frosty toes and cold fingers.
We are probably all familiar with the many health benefits of walking, and in many ways they are increased during wintertime, which is a time when we frequently tend to be more sedentary. Walking tones muscles, improves circulation, and lifts mood, which for many of us is often lower in the dark, cold months. Just being in nature gives us a natural high, a boost on every level; walking quietly, we become more mindful and notice the little moments of beauty around us. Mindfulness and magic are inextricably linked in many ways. We simply cannot find the enchantment inherent in every day unless our eyes and ears and hearts are open. We need to look deeper and beyond in order to grow, discover, and receive.
Many of us keep journals and diaries as a way of assembling our goals and plans for the future, and of course there’s nothing wrong with that. It can be very helpful and constructive to write down our personal aims and dreams. But in winter’s quiet time of reflection and going deeper into heart and soul, I would like to suggest we also keep a small journal about what lights us up from the inside, right here and now, in this moment.
And if for any reason we are struggling to find joy and meaning in the simple reality of our life, this journal can give us a quiet and supportive place to write about these issues and hopefully find some way of moving forward with greater happiness and serenity.
I suggest you find a small, pretty journal or notebook and a suitable pen. At least once a week (or more often if you feel called to do that), set aside some quiet time when you can be sure of being undisturbed—late evening is often a good time. Sit quietly in a peaceful place and light a blue candle (blue is the color traditionally associated with peace and harmony). Some incense is also a good idea and will help lift and clear your mind and mood; I usually choose either of the two traditional favorites, lavender and geranium.
Allow your mind to relax and be open; give yourself time to think about what it is you truly need in order to be peaceful and heal from any stress, anxiety, or pressure you are feeling in your everyday life. If you find this difficult, simply breathe slowly in and out. After a little while, you will start to feel a little clearer and more relaxed, and answers will come.
Write what you are feeling in your journal or notebook as the thoughts and ideas occur to you. There’s no need to censor yourself; this is a safe and protected space. When you have finished writing for the day, sign your name and date the page. Then, holding the journal, blow out the candle and incense, and quietly say the following words:
I am here, in this moment.
I am at peace and so I will remain.
Life is offering me all good things and gifts,
and I simply need to be present
with an open and trusting heart.
I am peace. All is good.
And so it is.
Smudging:
The Ancient Gift of Plant and Fire
Smudging is also known as “smoke bowl blessing,” a ritual of purification that drives away negative forces while restoring balance, clarity, and peace. Although generally seen as being a Native North American tradition, similar forms of cleansing have been used throughout the world for many centuries by such cultures as diverse as the Chinese, Zulu, and Maori.
In the winter months, when we seek to purify and calm our minds and hearts, this seems like a particularly appropriate ritual whether you choose to use it for yourself, your home, or for others. Originally the smudging was done using a special bowl, although later it also became common practice to use a smudge stick of dried herbs and wood. I still prefer to use a bowl and have a particularly beautiful large shell, which was a gift from a friend who had been to Hawaii; the energy of this shell seems to tap into the intent of the smudging ritual perfectly.
There are several herbs widely used in smudge ceremonies, with the chief of them being sage (which imparts wisdom, healing, and protection) or sweetgrass and lavender (for loving, peaceful energy). In addition, during the ceremony you can also burn incense, light candles, or add lavender oil to a diffuser.
Simple smudge mixtures:
Sage, sweetgrass, and juniper: to cleanse and protect
Sage, lavender, and cedar: for emotional clarity and healing body/spirit
Rosemary, juniper, and cedar: clarity of thinking
Sage, frankincense, and lavender: opening to the spirit world, awareness, and divination
Smudging is a particularly powerful form of natural magic, if that is the right word, and a highly effective way of conducting special blessings and ceremonies whether for yourself, other individuals, or larger groups. In the Native North American tradition, it is regarded as essential for shifting energy and focus between the world of current physical reality and the unseen world of the spirits.
Basically, you gather the herbs, resins, and other plant material you choose and crumble them together to make a fairly fine mixture. Place a small self-igniting charcoal block in the bottom of your chosen heatproof bowl and light it. When the charcoal has turned grayish-white in color, sprinkle on a few pinches of your herb mixture. It should smoke easily. Keep your mind and heart open and focused, and breathe deeply and slowly as you perform this ritual.
Whether you are smudging yourself, another person, or an area, the process remains the same. Hold the bowl and use a feather to direct the smoke wherever you feel it is needed. If you are smudging a person, start around the head, then slowly bring it down toward the heart area and then down the front of the body. Allow the guided smoke to waft down the back of the body as you breathe deeply and calmly and imagine the smoke bringing with it clarity, peace, and courage. Please be careful doing this if you or the person being smudged is asthmatic or has any kind of breathing difficulties.
To smudge an area or room, simply walk around the perimeter of the area (or around each room), pausing to allow the smoke to waft into each of the four corners. Lavender smudging is particularly appropriate for this since it brings with it such peace and a sense of quiet security.
When you are finished, remove any remaining herb mixture and ensure the charcoal is extinguished. In case of flare-ups, it’s always a good idea to keep a jug of water close by. After doing a smudging ceremony, you can say the following blessing:
Thank you, smoke and spirits, for the protection, love, and healing you bring. Thank you for surrounding us and being with us as we travel on. Peace is here, and so it is.
This simple yet powerful Native American ritual can be used in so many ways: as celebration, growth, and letting go of the past, either as a solitary ceremony or in a group. It is also a natural follow-up to the previous smudging ceremony.
In this ritual we acknowledge the interconnectedness of all life on our earth. We honor both the natural world and ourselves by turning to the four corners—namely north, south, east, and west. It’s particularly magical if you do this while holding sage or lavender incense or a smudge stick made with these herbs.
First, turn your body to face the east and say:
Spirit of the East, Spirit of Air,
please bless, cleanse, and protect me and all those in the sacred place.
Then turn ninety degrees to the south and say:
Spirit of the South, Spirit of Fire, please allow me to see my own passion, beauty, and strength in every day I have on this holy earth.
Then turn ninety degrees to the west and say:
Spirit of the West, Spirit of Water,
please bless my dreams and hopes, and accept my gratitude for your many and abundant gifts.
Finally, turn ninety degrees to the north and say:
Spirit of the North, Spirit of the Earth,
may you bless and protect this sacred earth and all who dwell therein from now on and forever.
Breathe deeply and slowly, and feel yourself centered and grounded in the moment.
Many of the most significant religious and spiritual festivals happen during the winter months, starting with Yule (December 21), Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year, and Candlemas (February 2), also known as Imbolc, which marks the beginning of the end of the winter months and in Native American traditions was known as the cleansing time. Of course, anytime is suitable for a celebration with loved ones and friends who share our lives and earth, as we need to always embrace the warmth of love, joy, and acceptance, whoever and wherever we are.
However, I would suggest a special feast for February 2—the time when winter is almost past, and we have moved through a time of quiet reflection to a place where we are gently looking forward to new dreams and plans becoming manifest in our lives.
This idea is partially based on one in The Smudging and Blessings Book by Jane Alexander. Start by gathering together as darkness begins to fall, with each person holding a candle. Sit quietly in a dark and peaceful room, then slowly stretch the arms up and out, welcoming the coming of new light, warmth, and hope. Gradually light the candles one by one; as they light their candle, each person present can quietly speak of their hopes and dreams for the coming year. When all the candles are lit, stand and form a close circle in a moment of quiet reflection and meditation. Then it’s time to share a simple feast of good food and drink, as well as memories of the winter season just past and plans for the coming year.
It’s particularly wonderful to use candles and incense infused with juniper, sage, cedar, or frankincense for this.
makes 8 small festive cups
This is a delicious and celebratory drink to share at a midwinter feast and is a version of traditional mulled wine. Simply pour a bottle of good red wine into a large pan, then add 1 thinly sliced orange, ½ cup brown sugar, 1 cinnamon stick, 4 cloves, 2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon grated nutmeg. Simmer very gently until the sugar has dissolved, then cool slightly and strain into heatproof glasses or cups. Float a thin slice of orange in each glass and add a cinnamon stick on the side.
Essential Oils for Healing the Heart
In the winter, as we have noted, there are new challenges, and not all of them are related to the cold weather! It’s a simple fact that winter and the holidays often bring up a lot of painful and unresolved issues for many of us; sadly, there is often an increase in depression, panic, insomnia, and anxiety-related issues at this time of year, and the darkness may also play a part for those of us who are affected by seasonal changes.
Obviously it is important to seek help if one is really experiencing major problems in this area, both medically and with supportive counseling or therapy, but on a day-to-day basis, using certain essential oils can make a hugely positive difference to our mood and happiness.
These oils can be used in various ways: added to massage oils or oils for the bath, used in diffusers, oil burners, or incense, or made into pillow sprays (for peaceful nights) or calming balms to carry along during the day and apply when needed. (There are recipe ideas for all of these in this book.) Or, quite simply, just place a few drops of your chosen essential oil onto a tissue or handkerchief and inhale the aroma as often as you need to.
Some oils to use:
Depression: chamomile, jasmine, lavender, melissa, neroli, sandalwood, ylang-ylang
Grief: bergamot, frankincense, melissa, neroli, rose
Insomnia: chamomile, clary sage, lavender, vetiver
Mental Exhaustion: clary sage, juniper, lavender, neroli, orange, rosemary
Panic Attacks: frankincense, lavender, patchouli, ylang-ylang
Stress and Anxiety: chamomile, geranium, grapefuit, jasmine, lemon, rose, sandalwood, vetiver
Create
The winter months are the perfect time to create special and enchanted herbal blends, creams, and nurturing products for body, bath, heart, and soul, as well as for a beautiful home. Take this quiet time as a wonderful opportunity to develop your own magical apothecary mixtures and favorite blends. This is also a beautiful way to make gifts that are truly personal and uniquely handmade.
For me and many others, essential oils are well named: I consider them to be essential for anyone who wants to live a more natural, healthy, and simply beautiful life. Obviously there is a wide variety of essential oils available, but with time and practice you will discover which aromas are the most appealing to you; our olfactory senses are so unique that what smells absolutely beautiful to one person can smell positively unpleasant to another! There are many, many different oils on the market, too, and they vary considerably in both cost and quality. A good rule to follow is: if the price is very low or seems too good to be true, the oil is almost certainly less pure and contains synthetic fragrances. Always try to ensure that you are buying a sustainably produced organic oil. It may cost a little more, but in the long run you will have a far better and effective product. Also, since essential oils are used in such small quantities, they last a long time, provided they are stored correctly (in dark glass bottles, in cool cupboards away from direct heat or sunlight); many oils will last for 3–5 years under optimum conditions.
Some herbal recipes may only call for the use of one particular oil, but in many cases you will need to make fragrant blends of different oils according to personal taste and the particular properties of the product you are planning to make. That’s where the magic really begins, for there are no real rules, as such, and you can let your imagination go to a large extent. I would suggest, though, starting with simple blends of no more than two to four oils. Make small quantities at first since if you discover you really don’t like a particular blend, it’s difficult (or impossible) to make changes at that stage. Once you are more confident, you can add up to seven different oils to a blend.
First, place your base or carrier oil in a small glass jar or bowl (sweet almond, coconut, jojoba, and olive are all good ones), then add the oils, drop by drop. If you are happy with a particular fragrance combination, transfer the oil to a small dark glass jar or bottle and mark it very clearly with the ingredients used and the date so you can re-create the blend at a future date if necessary.
As a very simple guideline, fragrance is usually created using different “notes” that, just like a piece of music, work together to create beautiful harmony. The top notes are “green,” with fresh and crisp undertones. Middle notes, which form the heart of a fragrance, are generally the floral ones, such as rose, geranium, and lavender. Base notes are rich and often spicy or woody in aroma: think sandalwood or patchouli; they can give the fragrance an underlying depth and strength.
To make blending a little easier, try dividing your essential oils into fragrance families, which will make this process a little easier. As a general rule, aromas tend to work well with others within the same family and also with fragrances in neighboring families, such as citrus with floral, herbaceous with medicinal, and spicy with woody, but it’s not a hard and fast rule and is very much a matter of personal preference. (For example, rose and lavender work beautifully with frankincense.)
Citrus Oils: bergamot, citronella, lemon, lemon balm, lemongrass, lemon verbena, orange
Floral Oils: geranium, jasmine, lavender, marigold, neroli, rose, violet, ylang-ylang
Herbaceous Oils: basil, chamomile, clary sage, fennel, oregano, parsley, thyme
Medicinal Oils: camphor, eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary, sage, tea tree
Spicy Oils: allspice, cinnamon, clove, coriander, cumin, ginger, juniper, vanilla
Woody Oils: frankincense, myrrh, patchouli, pine, sandalwood, valerian, vetiver
See the Essential Oils for Healing the Heart section on page 196 for ideas of oils to use for stress-related problems.
makes enough for 4–6 treatments
Particularly if it is already dry, fine, or damaged in some way, hair can be particularly susceptible to the cold winter winds and artificially heated environments. This oil is very simple to make and use, and it makes a real difference to hair condition. If your hair is on the oily side, it’s best not to use this more than 1–2 times a month, but for dry and damaged hair, it can be used as a weekly treatment.
In a small dark glass bottle, combine 6 tablespoons organic coconut oil (warmed if it has solidified) with 3 drops rosemary and 2 drops each lavender and tea tree essential oils. Shake well and store in a cool place. To use, take about 1 tablespoon of oil and rub it well into your hair, starting at the ends. Cover your head with an old towel and leave the oil on for 20 minutes before shampooing your hair as usual.
Peaceful Alchemy Fragrant Balm
makes 3–4 small pots
This is probably one of my favorite scent combinations, and everyone who tries it falls in love with the fragrance.
In a small glass bowl set over a pan of simmering water, mix together ١½ teaspoons pure beeswax (either grated or pellets) and ¼ cup sweet almond or jojoba oil. Gently melt the mixture without allowing it to boil. Remove from the heat and add ٣ drops each lavender, frankincense, and sandalwood essential oils. You can also add the oil from a vitamin E capsule, if you like.
Stir with a wooden stick to combine well; the mixture will start to thicken. Pour the balm into small glass pots or jars and seal well. Keep cool and dry; apply a little balm ٢٠٣to your wrists, throat, or temples when you need to feel peaceful, harmonious, and relaxed. Don’t use this balm on very young children.
At this time of year, we often have more visitors to our homes than usual; we are often giving holiday parties or entertaining guests. Obviously we want our homes to feel truly welcoming so that all who enter may feel happy, relaxed, and comfortable. This simple home herbal infusion can be used in a number of different ways and is a truly magic way of creating a harmonious environment. If the fresh herbs are difficult to come by at this time of year, feel free to substitute dried.
Combine the following in a large saucepan: several large sprigs of rosemary, a handful of lavender stalks and blossoms, a few basil leaves, and a few slices of fresh ginger. Cover with spring or distilled water and bring to a boil. Then remove from the heat, cool, and pour the liquid into a large bottle or jar. Leave to infuse for 7–10 days, shaking the bottle daily. After that time, strain the liquid into a spray bottle and add ½ cup apple cider vinegar and a pinch of sea salt.
You can simply use this infusion as a fragrant room spray, or you can add it to the water when you are cleaning floors, cupboards, and windows. Alternatively, set a small bowl of the liquid over an oil burner and allow it to simmer, releasing its fragrance into the air.
Bathtime Magic
In my humble opinion, time spent in the bathtub is an absolute necessity and a way of giving oneself permission to simply be in that moment. It’s like a mini retreat for the body and the spirit, and for that reason you will find quite a few special bath recipes in this section.
Make a strong herbal infusion by combining 2 tablespoons each dried rosemary and peppermint in a bowl and pouring 2 cups of boiling water over them. Allow to infuse for 10 minutes, then strain out the herbs and let the mixture cool. Stir in 2 tablespoons Epsom salts and 3 drops each tea tree and sandalwood essential oils. Mix well, then add to the warm bathwater and soak luxuriously. This should not be used if your skin is broken, inflamed, or irritated in any way.
I have never had much success making bath fizzies or bath bombs, fun though they are; somehow they don’t end up the right consistency and either fall apart or don’t fizz when added to the bathwater. Then I discovered a recipe for bath melts, which are much simpler to make and deliciously fragrant and moisturizing. I have changed the original recipe a little to make the bath melts a little denser and more stimulating on the skin. Please note that these bath melts should be kept in a cool, dark place—not in a steamy bathroom or they will become too soft! They also tend to make the tub a little slippery after use, so be careful.
In a small glass bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt together 2 ounces shea butter and 2 ounces cocoa butter. Then stir in 2 tablespoons coconut oil and 10 drops essential oil of your choice. You can use either one oil or a blend of your favorites; I often make a combination of lavender and either rose or geranium, which soothes and enhances well-being. Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon each Epsom salts and baking soda. The mixture should be smooth and thick. Press it into mini soap or candy molds—silicon, preferably—and allow to firm up. To use, simply rub a melt over your body when you are in the tub; the warm water will melt it down.
This recipe makes about 10–15 melts, depending on the size of the molds.
Making bath oil is just about the simplest way to revive and nourish winter dry skin and make it smell gorgeous as well! While you can use any essential oils you love, the ones I have suggested here are particularly grounding, calming, and add a note of sensuality to bath time.
Pour 11/2 cups base oil (sweet almond, jojoba, or grapeseed) into a large dark glass bottle. Add 8 drops patchouli and 4 drops each sandalwood and geranium essential oils. Shake the mixture well and store in a cool, dark cupboard. To use, add about 1/4 cup of oil to a tub of warm water and stir it around with your hands before bathing. Please do remember that bath oils make the tub a little slippery, so be extra careful when getting in and out.
makes about 3 cups, or enough for 6 baths
I think the sultry and beautiful Queen of the Nile would have approved of this luxurious bath soak, even if it doesn’t contain her favorite asses’ milk but is made with rather humble powdered milk. Please use full cream or whole powdered milk, as the low- or no-fat varieties are not rich enough.
In a bowl, mix together 2 cups full cream or whole milk powder, 3/4 cup Epsom salts, and 1/4 cup non-iodized sea salt. Add 10 drops frankincense and 5 drops rose essential oils. Stir in ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. To make the mix look even more luxurious, add a few dried and crumbled rose petals.
Store the bath milk in an airtight container. To use, scoop about 1/2 cup under running water and allow to dissolve fully before bathing. This bath milk lasts for up to a year.
Nurture
Beautiful though winter is, she’s a season that often brings with her quite a few health challenges, chief amongst them respiratory ailments like colds and flu, sore throats, and sinus infections, as well as aching joints and muscles, which are sometimes exacerbated by the chilly weather. And then there’s the tendency we all have to overindulge in good food and drink at seasonal celebrations … But nature has the remedy for us to get us through this time in comfort, good health, and grace.
Another old, time-tested remedy for the misery of colds and flu; drink this and climb straight into bed. It’s pretty much guaranteed that you will feel better by the morning. And if you are like my Scottish great-grandmother, you can always add a tablespoon or two of whisky to the tea for even greater healing properties!
Infuse 1 tablespoon dried sage in ½ pint boiling water for 15 minutes, then strain the liquid. Stir in 1 tablespoon raw honey and the juice of ½ a lemon. Pour into a cup and drink.
Chamomile and Peppermint Tisane
Members of the mint family have long been used for digestive upsets like bloating, indigestion, and nausea. When combined with the soothing qualities of chamomile, this makes a simple and effective remedy for times when we have indulged just a little too much!
Combine the contents of one chamomile teabag with 1 teaspoon dried peppermint, then pour over 1 cup boiling water and infuse for 10–15 minutes. Strain into a cup, stir in a little raw honey if desired, and sip the warm tisane slowly.
With its distinctive fresh fragrance, juniper is an herb with many applications, from physical ailments to improving mood and relieving anxiety. In winter we often find ourselves in environments that are filled with negative or poor energy, partly as a result of winter illnesses such as colds and flu. This simple room mist serves to dispense these unhealthy energies and create a fresh, purified atmosphere.
Pour 1/2 cup each distilled water and witch hazel into a small spray bottle. Add 8 drops juniper essential oil, 4 drops lemon essential oil, and 1/4 teaspoon borax. Shake the bottle to combine (and also shake before each use) and store in a cool place. Dispense the mist around rooms or even the body, avoiding the face.
Eucalyptus and Jasmine Foot Soak
Feet can find winter a bit difficult too, especially if you are used to spending most of your time barefoot or in sandals.Constantly being bundled up in socks and shoes can leave feet hot, tired, and sometimes a bit smelly, too!
This is a really easy recipe that will ease tired, aching feet while at the same time giving you a chance to sit and relax. Simply fill a large bowl with hot (not boiling) water and add 1/2 cup each baking soda and Epsom salts and 6 drops eucalyptus and 4 drops jasmine essential oils. (Other oils that would work well for this particular use are lavender, rose, juniper, and tea tree.) Let your feet soak in the bowl for at least 25–30 minutes or until the water starts to get cool. Pat your feet dry, rub on a little moisturizing cream, and slip on a pair of light cotton socks.
While I admit that this steam will not necessarily protect you from all the nasty cold and flu bugs that might be flying around at this time of year, using it will certainly leave your senses and body refreshed and purified, and that can only be a good thing. As stated before, don’t use facial steams if you have breathing problems or asthma, or if the skin of your face is broken, inflamed, or irritated.
Fill a large basin half full with boiling water, then add 10 drops juniper and 5 drops each neroli, bergamot, and lemon essential oils. Wrap your head and neck in a towel, then hold your face about 8 inches above the water for at least 15–20 minutes, until the water starts to cool. Pat your skin dry gently and add a light moisturizer. If you feel a cold coming on or are already suffering the miseries of congestion, this steam will help to ease symptoms.
We are all familiar with the beautiful and majestic pine tree, which really comes into its own during the winter months, but we may be less aware of the truly magical powers this ancient and revered tree possesses. Pine is, of course, one of the Bach flower remedies, and it is used to help us move beyond guilt, despondency, and feelings of both negativity and lack of self-esteem.
During the winter months, when we can all be prone to times of doubt, unworthiness, and feelings of lack within ourselves, pine is a wonderful way of lifting us up, emotionally and spiritually. You can, of course, make your own pine essence using a few handfuls of fresh needles—see the instructions in Appendix C.
Other plants and their essential oils that have positive, uplifting, and peaceful properties include sandalwood, neroli, juniper, vetiver, jasmine, ylang-ylang, and sage. Feel free to include them in any of the health or beauty recipes given in this book.
This simple-to-make healing elixir should have a place in every herbal apothecary; it can be rubbed on sore or irritated skin or a few drops added to the bathtub.
Place 3 tablespoons base oil (jojoba or sweet almond) in a small dark glass bottle; add 5 drops thyme and 3 drops each lemon and neroli essential oils. Shake well and store in a cool, dark cupboard. Shake well before use; lasts up to a year.
Simple Ways to Nurture Your Spirit
in Winter
In winter we need light and warmth, both internal and external, to compensate for the dark and cold. It goes without saying that warm clothes and shoes and cozy houses are a necessity, but we can also add beautiful light to our lives by burning fragranced candles or oil lamps night and day (following the usual safety precautions, obviously, as burning down the house is not conducive to a happy winter season).
- As I have said before, I am something of a bath fanatic, and never more so than in winter. Use any of the suggestions in this book or create your own bath blends of oils and salts to make a unique ritual that will both relax and empower you.
- Spend at least half an hour outside every day, no matter what the weather. Breathe in the chilly air and watch the changing moods of the winter sky. If snow has fallen, tap into your inner child and make snow angels or a creative snowman.
- Fill your kitchen with the good aromas of simmering soups and stews enhanced with lots of herbs for health and flavor. Use spices to create baked treats and warming winter drinks. Make dried herb and flower mixes and use them to stitch up little herbal bags or dream pillows (or buy little cotton or gauze bags and use those, simply using pretty ribbons to tie them up with).
- Let go of the busyness that is so prevalent over the holiday season. Simplify your traditions and entertaining wherever possible. You don’t need to prepare a nine-course feast simply because you have done so in the past; similarly, if you give and receive gifts over this time, limit the number and expense. The heart is what matters, not the money spent or lavishness of the offering.
- Take time to reflect on the year that is waning and your own personal journey. Yes, there will be things we regret and things left undone, but just like our beautiful earth we have the opportunity to start and begin afresh with new direction and purpose. This is a good time for creating a vision board, perhaps using insights from our journals, that will guide us forward into the new year with clarity and confidence.
- Gather some beautiful fallen branches and pine cones, and arrange them in a bowl or basket. Reflect on the magic that fills the earth and the magic in each and every plant, tree, and living creature. We are magic, and in this icy season, as in every season, we should honor and celebrate all beings, all life.
Grow
The winter garden is a quieter one, seemingly resting under a layer of frosty earth, but, in reality, continuing to enchant and hold the promise of new life and growth yet to come; we just have to have the open hearts to see it. And I hope you are still able to gather fresh herbs, either from your garden or your indoor kitchen garden! Nothing is more life-affirming than being able to continue harvesting and enjoying the simple gifts of the earth year-round, especially on the short, dark days.
The herbs I have included here are all earthy herbs that add character, warmth, and color to all kinds of winter dishes, as well as numerous healing properties.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officianalis)
This is probably one of the best known and loved herbs, a woody evergreen perennial that has its place in every garden. As a plant from the Mediterranean, it likes lots of light and well-drained soil; however, it will continue to grow even through the winter months if it is protected from frost. Some species of rosemary—the smaller spreading varieties—are ideal for growing in containers or hanging baskets.
Few of us can be unfamiliar with rosemary’s clear, uplifting fragrance. Valued medicinally for centuries for its antiseptic, cooling, and anti-inflammatory properties, it also has many psychological benefits, which include helping with memory and focus as well as helping us feel revived and energetic when our bodies and spirits are low and debilitated. Rosemary essential oil should be a part of every herbal alchemist’s toolkit!
Of course, rosemary is good for remembrance, as the old saying goes, and it is certainly helpful in aiding memory and helping us focus. A few sprigs of rosemary added to a facial steam or floating in a warm tub of water will not only soothe you physically but also boost your imagination and help you move forward creatively and emotionally.
Rosemary is also used widely in the kitchen, although this herb should always be added with restraint since its powerful aromatic oils can overpower all other flavors. Rosemary is traditionally paired with lamb and often chicken; it can be used with fish, although it can be too strong for delicate whitefish so ideally should be combined with stronger oily fish. I love a little finely snipped rosemary sprinkled on bread and other savory or sweet baked goods—just always remember that less is more.
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Again, probably one of the most widely recognized and used herbs in the world, parsley is extremely versatile, as all parts of the plant can be used: leaf, stem, root, and seed. It’s a hardy biennial herb and can be sown successively through spring and summer to ensure a continuous supply into the cooler months. It should be planted in lightly shaded spots with rich, well-drained soil and trimmed regularly to ensure plenty of healthy growth. It also makes a good container herb and as such can be a valuable part of an indoor herb garden.
The two most commonly available varieties are curly parsley and flat-leafed parsley, a Mediterranean variety with a stronger flavor. It’s an excellent herb for digestion, being anti-flatulent and able to ease bloating; it has more vitamin C than oranges, and it also contains high levels of calcium, iron, and potassium. It’s used as a diuretic and for urinary complaints, and with its antibacterial action, it can protect against illness and help the body detox.
Parsley is a go-to herb in many kitchens, whether added to salads and cold dishes or used in soups and sauces. I prefer to use fresh parsley when possible since I find the dried has considerably less flavor. In general, it works better to add fresh parsley towards the end of the cooking process; otherwise it loses both color and taste.
Parsley essential oil (which is made from the seeds of the plant) is helpful for calming the mind, easing fears, and helping us feel better able to cope with difficulties we may be experiencing in life. You can also use infusions of the leaves, seeds, and roots to help with these issues.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
There are many varieties of this vibrant herb, which is actually a close cousin of marjoram, only a little more feisty in flavor. It’s both an annual and perennial (depending on variety) and likes well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine. They are very easy herbs to grow but do need quite vigorous trimming back sometimes to ensure they don’t become leggy or straggly. Oregano grows well in containers and window boxes as long as the soil is good and they are not overwatered.
Oregano contains high levels of the chemical thymol, which is powerfully antifungal and thus very helpful in many herbal preparations for treating problems such as fungal infections, fevers, throat issues, and viral infections. If you are having problems with memory loss or lack of concentration, particularly as a result of aging, oregano can be of great help. And for those of us (most of us, I would imagine) who sometimes feel stressed and unable to relax, it’s a good calming herb; it’s also known as a natural antidepressant, helping lift the mood and ease fears of various kinds.
Oregano and marjoram have been used in the hearty cooking of the Greeks and other countries bordering the Mediterranean for centuries, and with good reason. Oregano, in particular, teams up beautifully with red meat such as lamb or venison, chicken, eggs, and tomatoes. The dried version of the herb is as aromatic as the fresh, so it’s a good idea to harvest lots of the fresh leaves in summer to ensure a steady supply over the winter months.
The essential oil is best used in a diffuser or added in very limited amounts to natural products such as room mists or herbal handwashes. It should be used well diluted in base oil and never used during pregnancy or breastfeeding or on young children.
Cinnamon
A very familiar spice, warming and comforting, and most well known to most of us for its use in the kitchen, particularly in spice mixtures and for baking. Cinnamon also is available as an essential oil, created from the bark and leaves of the plant, and is an uplifting and energizing scent, especially when used in diffusers and room sprays. (Please note that it should always be well diluted.) It is used, in very small quantities, in some beauty preparations, too. This antiseptic and warming spice can be good for sore, painful joints and is helpful for digestive problems.
Sandalwood
This tree, a native of India, has been used in both Indian and Chinese medicine for hundreds of years and is now seriously endangered, so it’s very important to seek out sandalwood oil that has been responsibly and sustainably harvested. Quite apart from its rich and spicy aroma, sandalwood has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, and as a decongestant it is helpful for respiratory problems. It restores vitality and can ease depression or aid with insomnia. It’s very widely used for incense and other fragrant products, as well as in natural skin preparations, where it helps to balance oily skin as well as treat skin that is blemished, sore, or irritated.
Frankincense
This fragrant tree is a native of North Africa and the Middle East. Created from resinous tree sap, the essential oil has been widely used in religious and spiritual ceremonies and is celebrated for its ability to restore positivity and bring us into a more peaceful, meditative state of mind. Naturally calming, it is an analgesic and anti-inflammatory spice, good when used for conditions like arthritis and rheumatism; frankincense also is helpful for coughs, colds, and bronchitis. As a beauty treatment, it’s an excellent facial toner, especially for mature or blemished skins. The wonderful aroma is particularly lovely when used in diffusers, incense, candles, or added to massage oils; I would never be without a bottle of this traditional essential oil.
Vanilla
Probably one of the most familiar scents to many of us, vanilla is generally seen more as a flavoring for baked goods and desserts, but in recent years it has started to be used in aromatherapy treatments and beauty products too. It’s a fairly heavy and intense scent, as we all know, so should generally be used in moderation, otherwise it tends to overpower other fragrances. The essential oil of vanilla is soothing and calming for rough, dry, or damaged skin. Vanillin, the main aromatic chemical found in vanilla pods, has pain-relieving properties and a mild antibacterial effect. If you are feeling anxious or negative, this delightful scent will help to improve and lift your mood—maybe that’s why we find the scent of baked goods so delicious! The oil can be added to hair treatments or to a diffuser or oil burner. It’s also easy to make your own vanilla extract for use in cooking and baking. Just place a few dried vanilla pods in a glass bottle and cover with vodka. Leave to stand for a couple of weeks, shaking frequently, then strain out the pods—infinitely better than the nasty chemical-laden vanilla essence so frequently found in food markets.
I am fortunate enough to live surrounded by many, many birds who are frequent and very welcome visitors to my deck, where I leave food out for them several times a day. To me and many others, these little feathered creatures are truly a gift from Mother Earth: in fact, in some cultures they are considered to be the representation of angels, sent as messengers from heaven. In winter, though, birds and other wildlife sometimes struggle to find adequate or suitable food to sustain them, so creating a feeding station at the coldest times of the year is a wonderful way to support these amazing gifts from nature that bring us constant messages of hope, magic, and cheer.
A particularly nice way to feed birds in the winter is to create seed cakes. I remember my mom making these every winter and then suspending them from the tree branches above the bird table. She melted lard, then stirred in an assortment of different bird seeds and sometimes small nuts to make a thick mixture. Sometimes she would press the mixture into popsicle molds to get hard, or alternatively she used the scooped-out hollows of an orange as a pretty mold. Whatever you choose, your little feathered visitors will thank you every day in the frosty months.
Also, remember that if the ground is frozen hard, birds will have difficulty accessing fresh water, so place a few small dishes of water outside in the morning. Fruit is also hydrating, so apple or orange halves can be left on the bird table too.
If you have other small wildlife that visit your garden, you might want to consider leaving food for them, too—do a little research on the wildlife in your area to ensure you are giving them healthy and appropriate foods.
A few years ago, I started a “blessings from the garden” jar; every day I would write something down I had seen in the garden or on my walks, something that had touched my heart or lifted me up emotionally. It might be a flower, a bird, even a heart-shaped pebble or the sound of leaves in a soft wind. I wrote on small pieces of natural or handmade paper, then placed these pieces in a beautiful old jar together with a few small feathers, stones, and dried rosebuds. This jar became very special to me, and ultimately I ended up using some of the images and words I had collected to create an illustrated line of small inspiration cards.
This is, I think, a lovely idea for anyone who wants to create garden enchantment in both their surroundings and their lives. Of course one can keep a garden journal—in fact, I encourage you to do so—but somehow the small affirmations and images on little cards can truly be an everyday touchstone for gratitude and awakening.
Someone asked me, not long ago, how to create a magic garden. There is no secret to this; it’s very simple. It starts with the plants and the earth, water, sunshine. Plants, just like us, need basic things like food, moisture, and light; they also need love, companionship, and nurturing. So love your plants and talk to them too; it doesn’t matter if people think you’re crazy! It’s important to find out if the growing conditions where you live are suitable for a particular plant, but other than that, break the rules in a gentle way. Do what looks beautiful and feels right for you—it’s your green space, after all.
A magic garden can take you on a journey to a better, more peaceful and abundant life, one in which you and your plants can grow in beauty, grace, and health. Nature is our greatest and best teacher, so we need to learn from her and then extend that gift all around us in love and gratitude.
Taste
In winter the kitchen can truly become the enchanted heart of the home; it’s a place of nurture, comfort, and delicious tastes that supports us both physically and emotionally on the coldest and darkest days of the year. Although some of our herbal choices may be limited in this season—for example, we may have to use more dried herbs if fresh are no longer available—this is no barrier in creating truly magic meals to share and savor.
Scarborough Fair Chicken Broth
serves 4–6
This is such a classic winter broth, with truly wonderful life-affirming properties and taste. In this case, I would suggest using fresh herbs if possible, but if not, simply create a bouquet garni by placing 1 tablespoon of each of the dried herbs in the center of a square of muslin, then gathering it up and tying it firmly with string before adding it to the chicken pot. Otherwise, tie together a few sprigs each of parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme (and a few bay leaves, if you like) and use as indicated in the recipe.
1 whole fresh chicken, at least 2 pounds
2 large onions, peeled and sliced
3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup dry white wine
Fresh or dried herbs, as above
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley
Place the chicken in a large pot. Add the onions, carrots, celery and garlic, then pour in the lemon juice and wine. Add the fresh or dried herbs and enough water to cover the chicken completely. Cover the pot, bring to a boil, and simmer gently for 1–1½ hours, until the chicken is cooked and tender. Skim off any white scum that rises to the top of the pot.
Lift out the chicken and place it on a board to cool. Discard the herbs. Remove the skin, bones, and fat from the chicken, and chop the meat into small chunks or slices. Return the chicken meat to the broth/vegetables, and add salt and pepper to your taste. Bring to a boil again and serve piping hot in soup bowls, making sure there are plenty of both vegetables and chicken pieces in each bowl. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley before dishing up.
makes 4–6 servings
Winter is the perfect time for making baked goods, in particular bread, as it represents comfort and tradition in this cozy season. I love making flatbreads with herbs; they are always popular and pair up well with winter soups and casseroles. Oregano is a favorite herb of mine, but you could swap it out with, for example, basil, rosemary, or thyme. For this bread, you can use either fresh or dried herbs; simply reduce the quantity if using dried.
1 ounce active dried yeast
Pinch of sugar
41/2 cups flour, divided
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons dry white wine
A large handful of fresh oregano leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons pitted black olives, chopped
Freshly ground sea salt crystals
Combine the yeast and sugar in a large bowl, and add a little warm water to make a smooth paste. Sprinkle in approximately half of the flour and mix to form a dough. Then add the olive oil and wine and knead until you have a soft but manageable dough. Place the dough in a bowl, cover, and leave in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 400° F and grease a large baking sheet very well. Punch the dough down, then press onto the baking sheet—it should be fairly thin. Leave to rise again for half an hour. Sprinkle with oregano and olives and dust with sea salt. Bake for 20 minutes, until the bread is slightly risen and golden brown; cool briefly in the pan and then serve warm, cut into squares.
Roast Duck
with Ginger, Orange, and Thyme
serves 4–6
This is such a celebration dish and perfect for a special winter feast. The tastes are traditional (orange has always been associated with duck) and yet also a little bit different, with the addition of different herbs and spices. Serve this with love in your heart as a truly special and festive meal for dark winter days.
1 or 2 ducks (3–4 pounds in total)
Oil, salt, and pepper to taste
1 large orange
1/3 cup brandy
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh chopped ginger
1 tablespoon dried thyme
3/4 cup chicken broth
Cornstarch or flour
A handful of fresh chopped scallions
Preheat the oven to 350° F. Place the duck(s) in a large roasting pan, rub with a little oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 1 hour, until they are starting to look golden brown. (Pour off any fat that has collected and save it for roasting potatoes.) In a bowl, combine the juice of the orange (keep the skin), brandy, honey, ginger, and thyme. Pour this over the ducks and continue roasting until they are done and the skin is crisp.
Remove the ducks and keep warm. Add the chicken broth to the juices in the pan, bring up to a simmer, and thicken with a little cornstarch or flour if the juice seems thin. Arrange the ducks on a serving platter—I like to cut them up into portions first—then pour over the spicy gravy and add the reserved orange rind, cut into thin strips. Finally, sprinkle with chopped scallions and serve with rice or roast vegetables.
Stir-Fry Brussels Sprouts
with Bacon, Pecans, and Garlic
serves 4
Even people who say they don’t like Brussels sprouts usually enjoy this dish; you can also make it with baby spinach leaves, but in that case you won’t need to cook the spinach first.
1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
4 ounces smoked lean bacon
1 garlic clove, crushed
1/2 cup pecans
Olive oil
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Trim away any damaged parts of the sprouts, then boil them in the chicken or vegetable broth until they are just tender but not mushy. Allow to cool briefly.
Cut the bacon into small pieces or strips, and fry together with the garlic in a large pan until the bacon is fairly crisp. Chop the pecans coarsely. Add a little olive oil to the bacon mixture and stir in the nutmeg, cooked sprouts, and pecans. Cook, stirring for a few minutes, until the sprouts are heated through, then serve while hot.
serves 6–8
This simple and warming winter dessert always gets good reviews. The ground coriander adds a delicious flavor note to this traditional dessert, which can also be made with apples, pears, or plums.
4 cups sliced peaches, fresh or canned
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup sugar
11/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup shredded coconut
2 eggs
1/4 cup soft butter
Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease a 9 × 13-inch deep baking pan well. Spread the peaches in the baking pan and sprinkle with the brown sugar, coriander, and cinnamon. In a large bowl combine the sugar, flour, baking powder, and coconut. Stir in the eggs and butter and beat well until a soft, smooth dough is formed. Spoon the dough evenly over the peaches and bake until the topping is golden brown. Serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or custard sauce.
The Winter Herbal Pantry
makes 4–6 small jars
So much more delicious than it sounds, this marmalade is a wonderful addition to your winter pantry. It goes well with cheese, meat, breads, and vegetables—just about anything, in fact. A jar of this also makes a wonderful gift.
1 pound peeled and thinly sliced red onions
1 tablespoon dried thyme
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1 cup red wine
Fry the onions and thyme in a little olive oil until the onions are soft and transparent. Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the sugar, red wine vinegar, and red wine, cover the pot, and continue cooking for at least 30–45 minutes or until the mixture is thick. Pour into small, sterilized jars, seal, and cool. Once a jar has been opened, it should be kept in the refrigerator.
makes about 4 cups
This is an old South African recipe that needs to be planned well in advance because of all the steps involved. The original liqueur was made with tangerines, and if you can get hold of them, use three or four tangerines instead of the oranges. This spicy liqueur is lovely as a post-dinner drink or added to sauces for desserts.
2 oranges
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
5 cloves
1 cinnamon stick
3 cups brandy
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
Peel the oranges, cut the skin into strips, and leave to dry for at least 10 days. Then place the crumbled, dried orange peel in a large jar together with the spices and pour 3 cups brandy over them. Cover the jar and leave to stand in a cool place for at least a month, shaking the bottle well every day.
After that, strain the mixture, keeping the liquid and discarding the orange peel and spices. In a saucepan bring the sugar and water to boil and cook until a thick syrup is formed. Cool and mix the syrup very well with the brandy liquid. Cover and leave for a few weeks for the flavors to develop before pouring the liqueur into small bottles and capping tightly. Use within a year.