An over emphasis on self-reliance is a defense mechanism that many of us normalize. Ignoring this pattern's shadow nature born from a desire to protect ourselves out of fear. And rooted in our unhealed heartbreak and yearning for meaningful connection.

Today I’m exploring the shadow of self-reliance and how plant spirits can bring us back into balance.

When I look up the word self-reliance I find the following definition in the Oxford dictionary: “reliance on one's own powers and resources rather than those of others.” And when I keep digging I find a lot of references to an 1841 essay by American transcendentalist philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson titled “Self-reliance.” Where he argues for the need for each individual to avoid conformity and false consistency, and follow his own instincts and ideas.

Plant and fungi spirits have the power to bring us back into wholeness. Supporting our stuck grief to move and tears to flow. Accessing parts of ourselves we disconnected from and left behind to feel safe. Softening the hard edges of our inner protectors. And opening us up to the joy hidden in the crevices of our hearts.

Plant and fungi spirits are my cherished teachers and elders. Loving powers that hold me during my most vulnerable and raw moments.