Mind, Body and Soul

The holidays are over and so is 2018, and we understand if you’re feeling a little bruised, weary, ready for a reset. January is a good time for that, and for some self-repair. Fortunately, you don’t have to look far to find soothing balm. For some, gazing at a snow-topped Mount Baker, bathed in winter’s alpine glow, can do the trick. For others, it’s art or music, a day at the spa or in a bubbly tub. Healing — the process of making or becoming sound or healthy again — sounds perfect for this time of year. Over the next few pages, we give you some ideas to start repairing mind, body, soul. So find a comfortable nook, pour a mug of hot tea, and settle in. (You might want to gather some coloring pencils, too.) Enjoy.

Garden-grown fruits and vegetables aren’t your only healthy options. Consider these medicinal plants that can be grown at home.

SPILANTHES Good for: Numbing properties offer relief to toothache pain.

PEPPERMINT Good for: Alleviating nausea and irritable bowel syndrome.

NETTLE Good for: Strong antiinflammatory properties promote healthy skin and relieve allergic reactions.

MOTHERWORT Good for: Anxiety, menstrual cramps, symptoms of menopause and inducing labor contractions.

MEADOWSWEET Good for: Decreases inflammation and reduces pain. Commonly used for heartburn, fevers and ulcers.

LAVENDER Good for: Stress relief and settling anxiety.

ECHINACEA Good for: Boosting immune system and helping to fight infection.

CHAMOMILE Good for: Soothing digestive issues and reducing skin irritation.

Many reference books are available on the subject. A popular one is Rosemary Gladstar’s “Medicinal Herbs, A Beginner’s Guide.”

To continue reading our Healing Feature, click here.