Colleen's Inspiration
I’m in favor of self-care. We take this phrase for granted, “self-care.” We put on a face mask and call it self-care. We get bottomless mimosas and call it self-care. We binge watch our favorite hospital-based drama on Netflix and call it self-care. And while I am no stranger to face masks, mimosas, and Netflix — I firmly believe that self-care requires a sacred container in which we sit. A sacred container that allows us time to be present in an act of compassion, to find balance and to soothe our hearts.
I’m a multi-tasking, traveling, teaching, and experimental friend, lover, and dog mom of two. Wearing a lot of hats calls for real self-care to find the balance of yin to my yang. I found myself diving into “self-care” practices that soon turned into indulgences, that turned into a mess of slowing down to the point where I just stopped. Everything started to feel like “going through the movements.”
Pine Pollen came in like a breath of fresh air.
It was time for a new herbal ally.
Pine Pollen is a potent, sensual, and playful adaptogen. A classic Jing tonic in the Taoist tradition, it is nutrient-dense — containing minerals, enzymes, B-vitamins and amino acids — and has been traditionally valued for centuries as a rejuvenating tonic for body and mind.
The energetics of this beautiful ally were radiant, supportive, and nourishing. With consistent use I found Pine Pollen became a grounding part of my daily practice — I made it off the couch and to the gym. I felt like myself again. I was back. I saw, I felt, I inhaled clarity with every breath. The veil had been lifted. This is self-care.
To do this, I dove in deep for a month by introducing it into my daily practices. My favorite method? The Pine Pollen Oxymel.
Pine Pollen Oxymel
Oxymel is derived from the Greek word oxymeli, which translates to “acid and honey.” It has been documented and used since the age of Hippocrates as a method of taking herbs that have strong tastes or aromas...
Ingredients3-4 tbsp. Sun Potion Pine Pollen apple cider vinegar* raw honey* *(equal parts, about 1/4 cup each) |
MethodIn a clean, dry mason jar (I used a pint jar), place enough dried herb to fill the jar ¼ of the way full Use equal parts vinegar and honey to completely cover the herbs until the jar is slightly less than full (you’ll need room to stir and shake) — you’re looking for a ratio of 1 part herbs to 2 parts honey/vinegar Stir the mixture with a clean, dry spoon to combine all of the ingredients well Close the jar tightly by screwing on the lid and shake well Store the jar in a dark, cool place and shake every couple of days option 1 Strain the mixture after 14 days and place in a dropper bottle option 2 Don’t strain — mix well before dividing into dropper bottles, and shake well before consuming |
How I Take ItStart small to see how you like it, and adjust to your own preference. I take about a teaspoon a day, sometimes up to three. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an oxymel?
A traditional preparation of herbs steeped in equal parts honey and vinegar. The name comes from the Greek oxymeli — “acid and honey” — and it has been used since the time of Hippocrates as a way of taking strongly flavoured or aromatic herbs.
How long does it take to make?
Fourteen days of steeping in a cool, dark place, shaking every couple of days. Then either strain it or leave the herb in.
How long does it keep?
Kept cool and sealed, an oxymel keeps for several months — the vinegar and honey are both preservative.
What is Pine Pollen?
Pine Pollen is collected from Mason Pine trees at the peak of their season. It is a classic Jing tonic in the Taoist tradition, traditionally taken frequently in small amounts.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Bruce Doak
Namaste