31/08/2026
I imagine that some of my aroma-friends may have been surprised at my ferocity in fighting for what I’ve believed in through this election. Most might associate me with a rather gentler disposition, since this is not the side I often choose for social media to reveal! One who knows me better however, remarked with a wink emoji, that it’s the Cancerian side the oils people know, but it really is often my Aries rising that’s running the show.
Despite that astute perception, this moon child grows weary of playing host to Eris, the goddess of strife.
This morning, as I sip my chamomile, I vacillate from being she, who agrees that commotion might be rather unsavoury behaviour for someone calling themself a healer, to feeling Artemis’ bow still weigh heavy in my hand.
I’d argue that activism is sometimes what separates “insta-priestesses” from “guard bees”. I believe that my arrows have been used justly, and I am comfortable that trying to maintain NAHA as a place of community and love is something worth fighting for. Rage does need a channel since incandescence has the power to spark fire into the crucible of change.
Rebuttal notwithstanding, my muscles are knotted, my breathing shallow and my head aches.
Further, as this portal for change looms closer, indignation is eroding my calm, undermining my centre and I sense my balance beginning to falter.
Because, of course, while novelty probably is warranted, (and could even be welcome at a push), the anxiety of what that might look like looms shadowy before me.
Perhaps this, then, should be the moment to pause and take stock.
To reflect and to remind ourselves of what we, as aromatherapists, maybe know better than most.
That strong spirits are bound by corporeal fragility, and that strong spirits also need peace.
Moments to check that mind body bridge and quieten the cortisol load.
Moments that scent-er us together, as the very community that we might inadvertently fracture if we do not proceed with care.
I am sure each of us has been sympathetic to different arguments about where NAHA should be headed next. But now, I wonder if this might not be an appropriate time to be parasympathetic together.
To rest, recharge and reset.
And so, at Raghda’s urging, I have written a short Aromythology ceremony with some lovely music and a couple of poems to help centre us as we move forward in stewardship, in serenity and scent.
It is a small informal gathering that is open to all current NAHA members.
The entrance fee is “nuffink” as Dexter would say, but there is an option to make a voluntary donation should you wish to.
Please feel turn up empty handed, but if you would like to join us, you might find it entertaining to fill your medicine pouch with some of all of the following items.
Geranium, Myrrh and Lemon oils. A little bread and honey, some pebbles or small rocks (13 if you can), and a set of headphones.
However, not of those things are mandatory and all you need to be able to attend is an open heart and a smile.
I am happy to send an unedited link for the recording for those unable to attend in person who would still like to enjoy a little aromasentience of healing.
To register and get your zoom link visit
A peaceful time to recentre after the skirmishes of the NAHA elections
