Gardening with Intent
All plants, flowers, herbs have their own meanings. To heal yourself spiritually and mentally, garden with intent; plant the things that bring you joy, that centre you, uplift or give courage.
“I, Borage, bring always courage” Originally a Latin phrase, borage was known to lift people’s spirits. Courage had this meaning then, not insane bravery as we understand courage now. Think about the glorious blue of borage flowers, with the (usually) pink star in the centre. The sight alone would lift your equilibrium, let alone the satisfaction planting and harvesting these herbs does for you. Also known as Bee plant or Herb of Gladness.
Borage is, apart from all that, a very useful little plant: easy to grow from seed (sow in spring ); the young leaves can be used raw in a salad and older ones cooked until just wilted – they have a lovely light cucumber type flavour; the flowers look fantastic frozen in ice cubes, which can in turn be dropped into iced water, or punch, or ….
Therapeutically, boarge is said to be useful in treating inflammation, anxiety and depression and respiratory disorders. Please consult your health practitioner if you have any of these conditions.
Spiritually, it brings peace and tranquillity into your soul and your home.
Lavender (lavendula). We know it for its’ powers in aiding sleep and bringing peace. It can also help repel insect pests – plant a hedge around your patio or barbecue area. Practically, it is a great aid in household cleaners, imparting a delightful fragrance and bringing antiseptic qualities. Meditate upon lavender; set your intent and find your inner peace. I have actually done that since I was a young child and had no idea about this stuff – my Mum always had to come back and drag me away from a huge lavender hedge on the road along to Milford beach ( back in the 60’s).
Our own Kawakawa symbolically represents peace and blessings; in Rongoa it has many useful properties, which I shan’t go into as I am no expert in that field. Culinary uses include flavouring ( a light peppery flavour ) and is used in making a tonic.
