Herbal Walks and Hidden Lessons

My grandmother taught me that chamomile tea promotes restful sleep, nettle soup is tasty, and young dandelion leaves make a delicious, nutrient-rich salad.  

At the beginning of summer, I joined a Medicinal Herb Walk around the Valley Pond in Newhaven and discovered that we were surrounded by healing allies that we have learned to dismiss as weeds. As Karine Knox-Humbert, the knowledgeable Consultant medical herbalist, leading the walk so beautifully put it, “There is no such thing as a weed, it is just a plant growing in the wrong place.”

I certainly felt daft when I realised that the “so-called weeds” I had pulled from my garden just a couple of days earlier, absolutely convinced they were an unwanted intruder, turned out to be cleavers. Cleavers are used as a spring tonic known for their gentle detoxifying properties, which help the body let go of what no longer serves it.

Nature moves in cycles: growth, harvest, rest, renewal. Women’s bodies do, too. From monthly rhythms to the all-mighty transition of menopause, we are naturally connected to these patterns. Yet, this fast-paced, attention-grabbing ‘modern life’ often demands that we ignore them, insisting we hurry up and push through rather than pause and listen.

Just as we may overlook the humble cleavers in the garden, we may overlook the quiet wisdom of our bodies. Perhaps menopause is an invitation to slow down and realign with nature’s timing. There is something to learn from the unassuming cleaver. Its stickiness, subtle strength, and ability to thrive despite being so badly ‘misunderstood’.

This month, I invite you to:

1. Join a medicinal herbal walk – open your senses to the healing world right outside your door. See the next one in September www.kkherbalist.com 
2. Create a Herbarium of the “Overlooked” – choose a plant you’ve pulled or passed by. Research its properties, draw it, dry it, and reflect on what it might teach you. It is a gentle practice to bring our attention to what has been forgotten—both in nature and within ourselves.

On that Sunday morning walk, I learned how to recognise plants and their properties – and met lovely people. I immersed myself in this humble landscape and walked away with a new perspective.

Perhaps the wisdom we thought was lost is not gone after all. It is simply and patiently waiting, growing quietly right here on the path beneath our feet.

This month, may you walk the path with fresh eyes and dare to be the change you want to see in your organisation, family, community and life!

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks."
— John Muir

Roots and Rhythms: A Women’s Circle of Change

This circle of change is a space to connect with nature, yourself, and others who are each walking their own path.

Whether navigating change, seeking genuine connection, or simply longing to slow down and breathe deeply, you are welcome here.

Together, we will gently rediscover the strength in what has been forgotten.

Come as you are, to a space where you can soften, breathe, share, explore and simply be.

Friday 26th of September – Waldron, East Sussex

Your story matters. Step into the Circle.

No experience necessary.

Get in touch: [email protected] – 07947 319 362

https://www.daretobethechange.today/events

Words: Mathilde Barbier