Winter in Vermont stands out as one of its darkest periods, where the elusive sun hides frequently, leaving the land draped in a somber palette of gray, often icy and barren, serving as a stark reminder that the arrival of spring is still distant. Amidst this season, focusing on our dreams becomes especially fitting, offering a chance to rebuild our vital energy through restful sleep. The power of dreaming, often underestimated, emerges as a potent tool for answering questions, gaining insights, and processing emotions.
Herbs can serve as excellent allies in unlocking the potential of our dreams, as many of them facilitate a connection with our imagination and intuition.
One compelling aspect of dreaming is the ability to tap into our subconscious, and many of our favorite dream herbs play a role in easing occasional anxiety and tension*, enabling us to enter a state of deep relaxation.*
A few herbs to support dreaming potential:
Mugwort
Mugwort, a plant revered by herbalists for centuries, has served as a tool for magic and dream work across various cultures. Renowned for enhancing our ability to delve into the realm of fantasy, both in sleep and during shamanic trance work, mugwort was historically invoked to aid individuals in visualizing life dreams and desires. Additionally, it symbolizes protection and is often burned as incense or used in smudge sticks during ceremonies.
As an aromatic plant, mugwort supports a healthy nervous system, gently soothing tension and stress.*
Passionflower
Passionflower lends support to the nervous system, aiding in its unwinding during moments of occasional anxiety-induced tension.* Achieving a state of relaxation through this herb facilitates more accessible dream work. As a trusted ally, passionflower is instrumental in supporting a smooth transition to winding down at the end of the day.*
Yarrow
Yarrow is acknowledged as a protective and healing plant known to foster prophetic dreams. Much like mugwort, this plant has been employed in moments of visioning to establish a connection between individuals and their dreams and desires. Its circulatory tonic effect works to soothe energetic stagnation.*
Chamomile
Chamomile is widely recognized as a bedtime tea, cherished for its gentle and nourishing flavor. With its uplifting qualities, chamomile is acknowledged for promoting a sense of mental calm and soothing wired nerves*, making it an ideal choice at the end of a long day, as you drift off into the dreamworld.
Rose
Rose is known for protecting and strengthening the emotional heart. Metaphorically, the thorns on a rose, representing the creation of strong boundaries, contribute to its ability to bloom into a beautiful flower. Sometimes, dreams can be confusing or challenging, leaving us feeling unsettled upon waking. Rose supports the emotional heart, making it easier to soften the images we may not want to hold on to.
Rosemary
Rosemary, known as the herb of remembrance, serves as a catalyst for supporting cognitive function.* One of the significant challenges in tapping into our dreams and subconsciousness is remembering them. Utilizing herbs that promote healthy brain function can prove beneficial when exploring the depths of our dreams and their meanings.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, valued for its brightening and soothing qualities since the Middle Ages, has been a staple in herbal practices. Herbalists recognize its "gladdening effect," which contributes to fostering deep, restful sleep by supporting mood and mental calmness.* A traditional "Dreamers mead" often featured a combination of mugwort, lemon balm, and honey.
Hops
Hops provide support for achieving a deep, restful sleep,* facilitating the completion of deep sleep cycles, where some of the most profound dreaming occurs. Their fast-acting nature helps soothe tension*, allowing us to enter the dream world blissfully.
Other dreaming practices
Other practices have involved placing herbs like yarrow and mugwort under your pillow to encourage vivid dreams, suspending lavender and rose above your bed to facilitate safe and calm dreaming, and establishing bedtime routines that incorporate herbs to support dreaming.
All explorations of dreams should include writing them down if possible. Consider keeping a journal next to your bed so you can easily jot down thoughts in the morning before they slip back into the realm of the unconscious as you go about your day.
Try our Hit the Hay formula for fast-acting sleep support* with California Poppy & Kava. A traditional formula used to promote gentle relaxation and restful sleep.*.
Happy dreaming!