In this episode, I explore the power of the erotic and how we can cultivate our erotic selves through daily practices and rituals. So often, the erotic is reduced to just the act of sex, but I invite you to see it differently— as a vital, playful, and creative force within us. By reframing our connection to erotic energy, we open ourselves to deeper pleasure, joy, and embodiment in everyday life.

I'll be sharing four simple yet powerful rituals for awakening your erotic energy—practices that anyone can do, whether you're partnered or solo. One of the most transformative shifts for me has been embracing painting as an erotic practice. I’ll share how my own creative process has changed the way I see the world and how quickly engaging in art can help us break free from old patterns and awaken new desires.

We’ll also explore the world of herbal aphrodisiacs, including Damiana, Rose, and Ginger, and how these plants can support us in connecting more fully to our sensuality and desires.

My hope is to demystify the erotic, release shame around desire, and offer a path to fully inhabiting our bodies and hearts. Join me in this conversation and rediscover the pleasure of being truly alive.

———— 

MY ONLINE COURSES

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

————

Resources:

Love Potion Workshop in Minnesota - https://www.skyhouseherbs.com/upcoming-events

Ester Perel - Couples and Sexuality Therapist - https://www.estherperel.com/focus-on-categories/eroticism

5 Rhythms Guided Dance Video on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA_RlOzHlSI

5 Rhythms Dance Live Classes in Your City - https://www.5rhythms.com/

Herb of the Month: Rose with Ashley Elenbaas - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_9R8sp1e0Y

Rose Damascus Glycerite from Mother Hylde - https://motherhylde.com/apothecary/

In this video, I’m excited to share five tips for making a tasty and nourishing overnight herbal infusion. Herbal infusions are an easy and ancient way of extracting essential vitamins, minerals, chlorophyll, and other plant phytochemicals into water. I’ll walk you through the process step by step, showing you how to choose the right herbs and offering tips from my 20 years of experience to ensure your infusion tastes great.

I recommend making these infusions a daily habit to supplement your diet and add health-protective phytochemicals to your routine. The herbs I suggest you start with include Nettles, Oatstraw, Cinnamon, Wood Betony, Lemon Balm, and for some, Licorice.

Making herbal infusions is more of an art than a science, and I hope this video gives you the confidence to create your own blends at home!

———— 

MY ONLINE COURSES

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

————

Resources:

High Quality Herbal Sources:

Mountain Rose Herbs - https://mountainroseherbs.com/

Oshala Farm - https://oshalafarm.com/

Zac Woods Herb Farm - https://www.zackwoodsherbs.com/

Today's Recipe

1 cup Nettles

1/2 cup Oatstraw

2 tsp Cinnamon (true)

1/2 tsp Licorice Bark

1/4 cup Wood Betony

1/4 cup Lemon Balm

Add contents to a quart sized mason jar.

Fill with hot water and cap.

Steep overnight (10 - 14 hours)

Strain in the morning and drink!

Follow with a quart of fresh water to support hydration and detoxification!

In this episode, we’ll uncover the deep and nourishing medicine of Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus), an ancient Chinese herb cherished for over 2,000 years. Astragalus is considered an "upper-tier" herb—highly revered for its potency and effectiveness. As a clinical herbalist, I often turn to this sweet, warming root to support those experiencing depletion, lowered immunity, depression, or metabolic sluggishness. It’s also a powerful ally for nurturing the immune system, adrenals, and gut health.

Together, we’ll explore the historical and modern uses of Astragalus and why it’s an ideal herb for the winter months, wildfire smoke exposure, and boosting overall vitality and longevity. I’ll share my favorite dosing tips, ways to incorporate it into daily life, and how it can be safely used in the context of autoimmune conditions. Whether you’re feeling run down or simply seeking extra nourishment this season, Astragalus might just be the perfect herbal ally for you!

———— 

MY ONLINE COURSES

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

————

Resources:

Michael Tierra "Herbal Tarot" - https://amzn.to/4259AZf

Michael Tierra Book "The Way of Chinese Herbs" - https://amzn.to/4aefbyv

Astragalus Tincture - Herb Pharm (4 oz) - https://amzn.to/3DMTDMZ

Astragalus Glycerite - Oregon's Wild Harvest - https://oregonswildharvest.com/products/alcohol-free-astragalus?_pos=7&_sid=915bbd467&_ss=r

Astragalus Root - Mountain Rose Herbs - https://mountainroseherbs.com/astragalus-root

Join me as I share my three must-have herbs for 2025: Nettles, Mimosa, and American Ginseng. These incredible plant medicines are packed with benefits—supporting immunity, mood regulation, gut health, and overall vitality. I’ll dive into why I chose these specific herbs and how they align with the themes of nourishment, resilience, and connection.

In this episode, we’ll explore the herbal actions of these plants—Nettles for deep nourishment, Mimosa for nervous system health, and American Ginseng for stress support and gut balance. I’ll share my personal experiences, photos of the herbs, and resources for sourcing them, along with practical dosing strategies. Let these powerful allies become part of your vibrant 2025!

———— 

MY ONLINE COURSES

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

————

*KICKSTARTER - Late Pledges Are Open*

🎉 Every contribution counts — $5, $10, $15, or more.

🚀 Support Nightlight on Kickstarter ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025

🌌 Unlock Unique Rewards! ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025

————

Being Brave in 2025: A Plant Spirit Tarot Reading

https://youtu.be/UHUVaMR-_MI?feature=shared

Mid-West Women's Herbal Conference Discount Code: HERBAL10

May 23-25,2025

https://www.midwestwomensherbal.com/mwhc

————

Resources:

Nettles - Urtica spp.- https://mountainroseherbs.com/nettle-leaf

Mimosa - Albizia julibrissin - "Albizia Calm" tincture https://www.herbsdirect.com/products/albizia-calm-2-oz-planetary-herbals?gad_source=1&[…]sVNeg-vk-T18s2cGJrTxCyGkJAaAv9HEALw_wcB&variant=27953078280

American Ginseng - Panax Quinquifolius - https://mountainroseherbs.com/american-ginseng-extract

Welcome to "Being Brave in 2025: A Plant Spirit Tarot Reading." In this video, I'll be drawing several cards from one of my favorite tarot decks, "The Flower Speaks." This deck beautifully blends astrology with plant spirit medicine, offering us a deep connection to the wisdom of the natural world.

Join me as I pull the cards and invite you to sit in stillness, centering yourself as we journey together into the divinatory realm. I'll draw four cards to reflect on where we are coming from in 2024 and where we’re headed in 2025. I’ve been working with this deck for over 20 years, and I absolutely adore the rich symbolism it carries.

Through these cards, I hope you find a sense of hope and receive guidance for the year ahead. The plants are always here to offer their support, and I can't wait to share the wisdom they have for us. Let's explore what 2025 holds and how we can move forward with bravery and trust.|

You can chose to use any of these herbs as a Flower Essence to support your journey in 2025. Take 3 drops on the tongue every day to support the work of these flowers in your life!

A Review of the Cards:

The Action Card for 2025 (Yellow) - Expansion/Fruit/Rose Hips - Travel, Changes in Perception/Expanding Your Work & Visions

What is Being Released in 2025 from 2024 - Buttercup/Self-Doubt/Childlike Vulnerability (Sun/Leo/5th House)

What is Being Carried Forward in 2025 - Tiger Lily/Action/Bravery/Slow Steady Choices (Aries/Mars)

What Unexpected Gifts are Coming in 2025 - Star of Bethlehem/Peace/Ending of Trauma (Uranus)

————

*KICKSTARTER*

Support Your FREE Daily Horoscopes for 2025!

🎉 Every contribution counts — $5, $10, $15, or more.

🚀 Back it because you believe in it  ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

————

MY FAVORITE HERBAL TAROT DECKS

The Flower Speaks Tarot - https://amzn.to/3Bzal1W

The Herbal Tarot - https://amzn.to/4gyGh5w

The Herb Crafters Tarot - https://amzn.to/4gyGh5w

————

WORK WITH THE FLOWER ESSENCES

Buttercup Flower Essence - https://amzn.to/4gyGh5w

Tiger Lily Flower Essence - https://amzn.to/3BNXCbw

Star of Bethlehem Flower Essence - https://amzn.to/4fHsCaZ

The holidays can be a time of joy, but for many of us, they can also bring overwhelming stress and burnout. In this video, I’m going to talk about what burnout really is, why it's so common during the holidays, and how we can take intentional steps to avoid it. I’ll be sharing five personal strategies from my own life and clinical practice that help me stay grounded and calm during this busy time of year.

These five strategies are:

- Check in regularly

- Tend the Living Things First

- Safeguard Your Rituals

- Herbal Allies

- Neaten Your Nest

As we dive into these, I’ll also discuss how I use herbs like American Ginseng and medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi to keep my nervous system balanced during times of stress. I’ll share how these powerful plants support me when things feel out of control and help me regain my calm.

One of the highlights of this video will be a guided exercise where I’ll lead you through a simple practice to connect with and recalibrate your nervous system. It's amazing how our bodies have the ability to balance themselves once we tune in and notice when we’re out of sync.

Lastly, I’ll give you a sneak peek into my Year One Herbal Foundations course, where we explore and work with plants in a deeper, more intentional way.

Join me in this video to learn how you can avoid burnout, reclaim your peace, and truly enjoy this holiday season with the help of herbs and simple rituals.

————

*KICKSTARTER*

Support Your FREE Daily Horoscopes for 2025!

🎉 Every contribution counts — $5, $10, $15, or more.

🚀 Back it because you believe in it  ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

🌌 Unlock Unique Rewards! ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

🎉 Watch the 2025 Kickstarter Campaign https://youtu.be/63FgOUl_3Js

————

MY ONLINE COURSES 

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

————

Resources:

HerbPharm American Ginseng Tincture - https://amzn.to/3ZDuoEg

Mushroom Harvest Reishi Mushroom Powder - SOLD OUT - https://mushroomharvest.com/

Host Defense Reishi Mushroom Powder - IN STOCK - https://mushroomharvest.com/

Navitas Organic Cacao Powder - https://amzn.to/4fAOR2E

In this episode, I explore the concept of animism—what it means historically and how it can be applied in today’s world. Animism is the belief that nature is alive and infused with spirit, a perspective that can help us connect deeply with both our animal and human selves. By shifting our view of the world, we can honor our sensory, emotional, and just natures, living more harmoniously on this dynamic, living planet.

Together, we’ll delve into the foundational principles of shamanism, reflecting on what it means to see ourselves as part human and part animal. We’ll also confront darkness—an integral, yet often misunderstood, aspect of the animistic worldview. I’ll share insights into what darkness can teach us, its potential dangers, and how we can protect ourselves from its perils.

Using tools like prayer, ritual, and herbs, we’ll discuss ways to bring light into the dark spaces of life. I’ll highlight three powerful solar herbs—Rosemary, Angelica, and Calendula—sharing their historical significance and my modern approaches to using them. Known for their warming, diffusive, and protective qualities, these herbs have long been associated with the sun’s energy and are invaluable allies for navigating the unknown. Join me as we light our lanterns and journey together into the wisdom of the dark.

————

*KICKSTARTER*

🚀 Support Nightlight on Kickstarter ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

🌌 Unlock Unique Rewards! ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

🎉 Watch the 2025 Kickstarter Campaign https://youtu.be/63FgOUl_3Js 

————

🌟 You’re Invited: (in-person) Winter Solstice Gathering > https://bit.ly/41ccWJy

————

MY ONLINE COURSES 

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

————

Resources:

Book, "A Shamanic Herbal" by Matthew Wood https://amzn.to/4gsOOGT

The Emerald Podcast - "Guardians and Protectors" https://open.spotify.com/episode/1vnahdRrS0haf6hkXaJ6Pm

Rosemary officinalis herb - https://amzn.to/3Vz4XCA

Angelica archangelica root - https://amzn.to/3D6UxDY

Angelica archangelica tincture - https://amzn.to/3ZDP0MO

Calendula officinalis dried flowers - https://amzn.to/4gyuc01

In today’s episode, I’m diving into the beautiful and versatile medicine of Rose. I’ll explore its cooling and drying energetics and show how Rose can ease tension, cool heat in the body, and support cardiovascular health. You’ll learn how to make a refreshing cold water infusion using rose petals, marshmallow root, and cinnamon—a soothing, heart-centered tea that’s as delicious as it is healing.

I’ll also walk you through making a vibrant rose vinegar that can elevate salads, soups, or even be turned into a sweet oxymel for spreading on toast. Along the way, I’ll discuss some of Rose’s key chemical constituents and how I incorporate this beloved flower into my practice and daily life. Join me to discover the magic of Rose!

————

*KICKSTARTER*

🚀 Support Nightlight on Kickstarter ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

🌌 Unlock Unique Rewards! ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

🎉 Watch the 2025 Kickstarter Campaign https://youtu.be/63FgOUl_3Js 

————

🌟 You’re Invited: (in-person) Winter Solstice Gathering > https://bit.ly/41ccWJy

————

MY ONLINE COURSES 

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres
🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

In this episode, I’ll reveal three of the best kept secrets of herbal medicine, drawing from over 20 years of studying and working with plant-based healing. This is part one of a special series where I’ll take you deeper into the transformative power of herbalism—beyond simply treating symptoms.

The first secret is how herbs connect you to your biological ancestors and the land you live on. The second explores how herbalism, while low-cost, is high in value, creating more meaningful experiences and inspiring self-awareness. The third secret is that herbs naturally beautify your life, infusing your space and daily routines with nature’s healing magic.

I’ll also share personal stories of how plants have shifted my perspective and how I care for myself as an herbalist including my step -by-step strategy for working with cold and virus symptoms. Let’s uncover the deeper wisdom of herbal medicine together!

————

*KICKSTARTER*

🚀 Support Nightlight on Kickstarter ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

🌌 Unlock Unique Rewards! ✅ https://tinyurl.com/nla-ks-2025 

🎉 Watch the 2025 Kickstarter Campaign https://youtu.be/63FgOUl_3Js 

————

🌟 You’re Invited: (in-person) Winter Solstice Gathering > https://bit.ly/41ccWJy

————

MY ONLINE COURSES 

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

In this video, I dive into the fascinating connection between imagination and healing. Did you know that fantasy and visioning play a key role in our physical and mental health? I'll share personal stories and insights from years of working with clients, illustrating how imagination can help us overcome challenges and achieve our goals.

We’ll also explore the ancient concept of the four humors, focusing on "melancholia." The Greeks viewed melancholy not just as sadness but as a profound wellspring for creativity and healing—a space where inspiration often strikes after periods of solitude.

To support this creative and healing process, I’ll introduce two incredible herbal allies: Rosemary and Burdock. Learn how these plants can nurture your imagination and help transform moments of melancholy into sparks of vision and renewal. Join me for this inspiring journey into the power of your mind and the wisdom of plants! 

————

MY ONLINE COURSES 

🌱🌝 Roots & Spheres Class: https://bit.ly/RootsAndSpheres  

🌿Herbal Foundations Apprenticeship: https://bit.ly/HerbalProgram

————

*KICKSTARTER*

🚀 Support Nightlight on Kickstarter ✅ https://bit.ly/NLK25

🌌 Unlock Unique Rewards! ✅ https://bit.ly/NLK25

🎉 Watch the 2025 Kickstarter Campaign https://youtu.be/63FgOUl_3Js 

————

Article on Melancholia the Journal of History of Netherlandish Art https://jhna.org/articles/privileged-piety-melancholia-herbal-tradition/

"Imagination" from The Book of Qualities by Ruth Gendler

https://amzn.to/3AUpQ48

Podcast on Erotic Fantasy with Esther Perel

https://www.estherperel.com/podcast

Erotic Desire  https://www.estherperel.com/blog/letters-from-esther-61-the-art-of-erotic-communication