Holly: A Timely Essence

In February, I created an essence blend for myself comprised of star of bethlehem (trauma), white yarrow (energy shield), impatiens (impatience!), willow (compassion and resentment), olive (strength), agrimony (sharing emotions) and holly (quieting inner battles). After working with it over a few days I felt that Holly wanted to work with me on her own.

Holly is said to bring in universal love and compassion. She helps shift patterns of jealousy, envy, and suspicion, and eases battles playing out within ourselves. Alongside Wild Oat, Holly is one of two flowers Dr. Bach (founder of contemporary flower essences) used when a client had many conflicting imbalances and it seemed difficult to pinpoint the root cause. Holly is said to help indicate which essence is needed next.

I’m two weeks in to working with Holly, and notice a profound shift already. I’m able to notice if I’m getting a bit snappy, and pull out of it enough to apologize and shift how I’m reacting. A big reason I wanted to work with Holly is the fear of being left out/jealous of others spending time together and not being invited. This is a story from early in my childhood, and I’ve begun to notice that the emotional pang I used to feel is diminishing. In it’s place is a curiosity asking, “what do I want to do? Who do I want to hang out with?”

Dr. Bach first created the Holly essence in the 1930’s when many dictators were gaining power around the globe, and there was much fear and discord. The essence is applicable as ever, to help us tap into our own stream of love, compassion, and interconnectedness with all beings. If we can feel safe within ourselves, we can feel safe within our community, and offer generosity and support to others.