Ancient Plant Wisdom for a Changing World

July 5 – 7, 2024

“As we walk the path of plants, gathering medicine from the heart of nature, it sprouts and grows within us. We become the living forest where we are the medicine.”

Herbalism is a powerful way to participate in the green transformation underway in our culture. We’ll examine herbalism’s radical and non-hierarchical roots, the growth of spiritual awakening and social radicalism.

Shantree, an elder in the field of herbalism honoured by the Canadian Council of Herbalist Associations, will provide a comprehensive weekend on the modern landscape of this ancient healing practice. He explores how these modalities are becoming prominent again when our planet needs them the most. As a species, we are on an ecologically unsustainable course. Shantree will guide you to reconnect with the land and yourself through energetic herbalism – a powerful way to participate in the earth-centred green transformation happening in our culture.

We will be delving into the concept of viriditas, which is the belief that nature possesses divine intelligence. He explores the critical role herbs, and their constituents play in ecology, shedding light on the world of herbalism through an alluring process of walking the fields and forest of pristine land that has never been contained.

The mutually beneficial relationship between humans and plants has evolved to support and maintain biodiversity and chemo-diversity. This co-evolutionary process sheds light on the importance of preserving and nurturing our natural environment through hands-on experiences.

Simple and effective techniques of herbalism that developed outside of the dominant culture remain relevant in our modern world, from its ancient roots to its modern-day practices. Shantree explores the radical and non-hierarchical roots of energetic herbalism and elemental medicine, drawing parallels between the development of this field and the growth of spiritual awakening and social radicalism.

An exploratory process of plant medicine from an ancient energetic perspective, confirmed by ancient cultures, is now supported by recent exponential growth in research. Furthermore, he provides various herbal approaches to help individuals and cultures build resilience during humanity’s current crises.

“Herbalism is a calling that runs deep within the heart of the true herbalist. Their passion and knowledge are not defined by any certification or degree but rather by an invisible mark etched into their heart by the hand of Mother Nature herself. It’s a mark that drives them to seek out the rejuvenating properties of plants and their natural gifts and to share it with the world in a helpful and meaningful way.”

Curriculum

• Unlocking the Foundations of Energetic Herbalism

• Elements in Nature

• Know Your Herbs Energetically

• Seasonal Dynamics & Reflections in Nature

• Dual nature and relationship to the 5-Elements

• Vitalist Herbal Actions

• Plant Application of the Elements

Engaging Practices

• Living the Essential Keys

• Field & Forest Studies

• 5-Sensory & Plant ID

• Reflections & Insights

• Interactive Format

• Key Lessons