flower essences
what are flower essences?
Flower essences, said to be used by ancient civilizations, were reintroduced in more recent times by Dr Edward Bach in the 1930s. He is the father of modern-day vibrational essences, and his beliefs and theories form the basis of our understanding of how they work. These natural remedies are made by using the energy contained in flowers and plants. Produced in liquid form, they are taken by drops under the tongue or in water. Dr Bach, when developing these remedies, recognized the link between stress, emotions and illness; his essences (along with essence ranges by other producers) help to improve our wellbeing by making actual transitions in our emotions. They do not treat physical illness directly, but rather the negative thoughts, feelings or inner disharmony that may manifest as physical problems. In resolving personality imbalances, they provide a gentle, holistic way of healing.
Flower essences form part of a system of vibrational healing, which sees human beings consisting of complex, multidimensional energy fields that orchestrate and organize the physical body. Vibrational healing is based on the idea that everything in the universe emits its own unique energy frequency; I believe it is also true of the physical body, which radiates its own distinct energy-signature. The vibrating, subtle-energy fields are linked with one’s emotions and feelings and their condition is vital to the overall balance of one’s psyche and physical health. Flower essences have the ability to influence these fields if imbalance occurs, thus restoring harmony, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and often physically. Since Dr Bach produced his range of thirty-eight flower essences, this field has blossomed, with many producers from all over the world now creating their own ranges. In addition to essences made from flowers, essences are also created using crystals, gems, and other natural resources.
HOW ARE THEY MADE?
Essences contain the energetic pattern of plants, crystals, gems and other sources of the natural world. Generally, when essences are made the physical constituents of a flower (or such) are not used (there are a few exceptions to this), only the essential energy that is found within it. This energy is captured in water and along with an antibacterial preservative such as brandy it is transferred into bottles. In making their essences, the vast majority of producers do so using a sun-infusion of blossoms in a bowl of water. However, some producers, very aware of conservation concerns, are now exploring alternative methods of capturing the energy of flowers without removing the blooms.
HOW CAN THEY HELP?
Their gentle energy can offer us relief and protection against both the pressured and anxious times in which we live, and the stress of toxins in the environment. They offer support if you are troubled, confused or worried; they increase awareness, and thus the ability to consider other possibilities and to see things from another perspective. If you need to develop resilience to stress, or courage and strength to deal with challenges and trials, then they can assist. When you are physically scattered and thrown about after shock, distress and despair, they bring together, restore and integrate the aspects of your being. They help you to handle and balance areas of your life when you are ill at ease or vulnerable, and they can also aid you in releasing the past and adjusting to new circumstances or situations. With the support of flower essences, you can make the best of yourself by healing, resolving, restoring, developing, encouraging, uplifting and enhancing certain aspects of your personality. Over a period of time, essences can bring you in tune with your true self and help you to fulfill your promise and reach your potential. Lastly, they provide a natural, simple and effective way of healing, but one that does not interfere with or adversely affect conventional medicines or homeopathic remedies. Safe for children, they can also be used effectively with animals and plants. Essences however do not replace proper medical attention or a proper healthcare or exercise regime. Healing can take place on many levels, and in some situations the expected outcome may not always be apparent on the surface.
TAKING FLOWER ESENCES
Keep in mind that essences work to restore balance generally, so the effects of taking one essence may resolve or heal something else on another level, which was not expected. It is impossible to overdose on essences. Take your essence according to the instructions on the bottle. A bottle of flower essences requires a preservative such as brandy or vodka. If this is not suitable then apple cider vinegar or vegetable glycerine can be substituted. Keep your bottle away from sunlight, electrical appliances and chemicals. One of the most important things about taking essences is that you should do so consistently for them to be effective. Generally, essences are taken orally, although they can be used topically, in the bath or via a misting bottle.
WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED WHEN TAKING ESENCES?
Some people respond quickly, after taking essences for only a few days or weeks, while others may require essences for many months or even years in order to resolve emotional worries, release negative thinking or improve physical conditions. Generally, people find that the longer they have had an illness or felt a certain way, then the longer it will take to bring about new balance.
Flower essences do not work instant magic (although many people can experience quick results). Healing (on any level) often requires persistence and can be gradual, particularly where the issues are deep-seated. Everyone’s response is unique, and everyone’s healing capacity is individual—so be patient. Some people find the qualities of essences so subtle that they do not think there has been any change within themselves after taking them. It is not until they reflect (or others remind them) upon how they were, or how they felt and behaved previously, that they recognize a difference.
Although not everyone experiences this, flower essences can sometimes provoke a ‘healing crisis’ during the first few days of taking them. This can be experienced emotionally. We may become aware of strong feelings, and may actually display irritation, anger or crying. Or physically, where a reaction occurs as the body detoxifies, there may be, for example, a skin rash, pimples or chest congestion. If there is already a physical condition present, it may worsen before getting better. It is not unusual for flower essences to work in this way.
Essences can be used for other reasons than improving a certain state of mind or condition, such as to provide a self-help means to personal empowerment, self-development and increased self-awareness.
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