4 Plant-Inspired Self-Love Practices

1. We use traditional lovers herbs – even if only for ourselves! Plants used for love and romance, and often referenced by Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty, and sensuality, are plants that are often already in our wellness cabinets. Some of the best herbs for self-love are nervines. Nervine herbs replenish the nervous system, and support calm in the body, they quiet mind chatter and awaken our senses. Whether you are getting cozy with a loved one or not, these plants open up our hearts and allow the tension in our bodies to melt away – leaving us in a comfortable place to engage in loving conversation and be a little gentler and kinder with our actions towards ourselves and others.*

A few of our favorites:

Rose: A beloved herbal medicine for the heart, rose is used to support and open the energetic heart chakra.* Rose allows us to be open to new possibilities, yet strong and protected in our self. This is a great herb to use in syrups and elixirs as roses are sweet and their floral nature pairs excellent with raw honey.

Damiana: Traditionally used to support circulation, and has historically been prized for promoting a healthy libido. Damiana’s true qualities increase desire and enthusiasm with warmth and excitement, allowing us to be more open, and connected, even if just within ourselves. A lovely one for tea or in chocolate truffles.*

Vanilla: The scent alone can take us somewhere else. Vanilla invites qualities of pure euphoria and bliss and is wonderfully decadent! We love adding vanilla to just about any dessert, tonic drink or syrup.

Kava†: A special and more exotic plant that we pull out at this time of the year. Kava is traditionally used during welcome ceremonies as it is excellent at soothing tension, calming the mind and supporting a healthy stress response.* Kava’s qualities wash over us with a sense of calm and warm-hearted openness – leaving us fully present in the best of ways for our partners, friends, and family. It has often been said, “where there is Kava, there is love in the heart.”

Many of these herbs can be used in combination with food, and desserts – especially with cacao!

4. Surround Yourself with Beauty, Pleasure and Plants: Don’t save the best for last! Drink your best herbal tea from your favorite mug, cook a special meal and set the table as if you are a guest in your home. Treat yourself to those gorgeous flowers or an aromatic massage. The feelings of pleasure are part of a well-balanced and joyful life. And this doesn’t just mean sexual pleasure — it includes pleasurable experiences like foods and scents; happiness inducing activities such as yoga, dance, and creative hobbies like making art, gardening, or cooking. Whatever your budget allows – treat yourself with Joy.

These pleasurable acts of self-love help us feel inspired, loving, receptive, and liberated.

†Safety is a concern for users of kava. People, especially those with liver disease or liver problems, or persons who are taking drugs that can affect the liver, should talk with their health care practitioner before using kava.