BoomerGirl Diary

Flower Power evokes memories of the peace symbol painted on signs, a political voice, passionate energy and what the wild hippies stood for, free love, rock 'n' roll and bold new artistic expression from the generations of the baby boomer — us.

It was a time pinpointing Mother Nature’s energy because we were open to the vibe. We were coming into our own. We felt the connection of a circle by dancing, expressing, taking off our bras and by standing up for what we believed in. It created a deep sense of freedom that left a lasting imprint on this earth. It was a time when it began to feel safe to pray along side the trees. There was a universal consciousness that began a wave, and little did we know how sophisticated riding the wave would become.

As fate would have it, we were born at a time when, as Joni Mitchell said, “we are star dust, we are golden and we’ve got to get ourselves back to the garden.” What lies beneath the surface is that we are destined sisters from the flower-child age group, and we know how to get things done. Essentially, we rock! We are wise, strong and deeply feminine to the core, like a beautiful blooming rose, stretching and opening to the stars and the sky above. We are born leaders and we have the power to do anything we align our minds and heart to.

There isn’t a more poignant time in herstory for authentic sacred empowerment to rise up again. And, that’s exactly what this column will be about — surfing the waves of transition with self-authority by using natural organic fragrance one flower and plant essence at a time. The musky earthy scent of a generation who wore patchouli, sandalwood and wild rose is evolving along with everything else. We are remembering and acting on new ways to connect, because once again, we instinctually feel there is work to be done for ourselves and for every inhabitant upon the Mother Earth. Flower children understand rhythm and flow. We feel when things are out of balance.

Flowers and plants, and the symbols they represent, are woven into all cultures. They reflect all transition and change: birth, death, love and healing, celebration and ritual. Plants captivate the soul and radiate our being to a higher level. Like the experience of walking in the garden or lying in the grass, the energy of plants provides a profound sense of peace in a chaotic and frantic world. They offer lessons in hope and renewal. They teach us to keep our dreams open and alive. They reflect the beauty from within. They help us to see a side of life that sometimes we forget exists.

Scent affects everything: the way we feel, the way we act, the way we heal and the way we envision the past, present and future. Mother Nature’s organic fragrance can provide inspiration and direction in those times when we need it most. The sense of smell governs the middle part of the brain called the limbic system, where our memories and emotions live. Advanced scientific studies have shown, through neuro-imaging, the middle brain lights up when trauma is present. Imagine the important role Mother Nature’s sacred scent can play to assist in creating peace simply by providing the balance necessary to release the memories associated to the pain of trauma.

Essential oils, also known as natural fragrance or aromatic plant medicine, are taking on a new level. By communing with the energy of Mother Nature, the contemporary generations of Flower Power can again help to shift the world. For the past two decades, the buzzword in the industry for the use of essential oils has been aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of concentrated liquid or resinous aromatic plant extracts that contain hundreds, if not thousands, of phyto-chemicals, which determine the oil’s efficacy.

Some effects of aromatherapy assist in the natural healing process, provide stress relief, hormone regulation and help create balance in the daily walk of life. Aromatherapy is Mother Nature’s skilled way to create the path and practice of peace, love and living well. When using aromatic plant medicine with intention an acceleration of energy can be felt as spiritual uplifting or the feeling for the never-ending return to the garden and that wonderful place we call home.

Flower Power will explore "the inside knowing" that all is adding up to something transcendent, as it should be! Our time has come full circle! So ladies, take off your shoes and run naked through the green forest, even if, only in your mind! Place your bare feet upon the Mother Earth and be the true flower you naturally can be. Shine your light, stop and smell the flowers and always remember who you are.