More Magic of Herbs

More Magic of Herbs Lydia Heshka, Wellness Committee Member

October 15, 2014, was a perfect autumnal day for participants to gather at Assiniboine Park’s Family Qualico Centre for a wellness seminar called “More Magic of Herbs.” This was a follow-up workshop to the one offered last year. This year the objective was that we would learn how to use herbs, not only for re-energizing, but also for relaxation. Herbs can also address our emotional needs. Our expert instructors, Karen and Bonnie, told us how essential oils are derived from plants. Leaves, stems, roots or petals are distilled to produce true essential oils. We were reminded how smells trigger memories and emotions. Different essential oils can enhance certain emotions. For instance, citrus-based oils have positive effects on SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), which is characterized by low energy. Lavender and basil can help address stress and sleep disorders. Rosemary is known for strengthening our memories. Karen and Bonnie soon had us busily interacting, as we made ‘herbal aromatic bath tea’ sachets to take home for a relaxing soak in the tub. We made body lotions and scrubs using various essential oils of our choice. It was a veritable “make and take” party. Following our morning session, we were served a delicious buffet lunch in the Tamarack Room, offering us more opportunities to mingle with new and former friends, and hear how they are spending their time in retirement. The afternoon session consisted of two activities. Our first was an opportunity to do some actual garden photography. There was a slide presentation giving us some general photography tips, such as “the rule of thirds.” This was followed by our actual field-trip to the English and Leo Mol Gardens, where we tried to put into practice what we had learned. Upon our return to the Acorn Activity Room, our second activity was to play in the dirt and transplant our own parsley and lavender plants. A handout provided us with details on how to care for our two new herbs. Enthusiastic comments heard throughout the day were reflected by the extremely positive evaluation sheets. There were A+’s across the board with suggestions for ‘a repeat next year’, ‘excellent’, ‘a wonderful day of learning and fun in one of Winnipeg’s treasures (Assiniboine Park) at one of the best times of the year’, ‘I feel energized’, ‘time well spent, splendid day’, and many ‘thank you’s. Each of us went home with two potted herbs and a bag full of the aromatic herbal products we had made. It was a most energizing and productive day!