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The last remnants of summer have finally faded into yellows and reds. The cool cutting breeze of fall has weaved its way into our hearts. It is time to take stock and prepare for winter. November has sprung upon out of now were it seems and with this now we must give thanks for what the year has provided for us. As we enter into the winter land we must overcome our fears and become fearless, bringing light into the darkness. The Aspen can help us on this journey this month. It is the “Whispering Tree” believed to help carry the messages of the gods with it on the wind. It is amazing how a grove of Aspens originated from one tree. They are all connected together by the same root system; they are all one and the same.

Persephone the Goddess of regeneration and the underworld is associated with the Aspen. If you adorned yourself with Aspen leaves you could enter the realm of the underworld. You would be protected by Persephone and allowed safe passage out. Because of this association many believed that it was considered an unlucky tree. But, the Celtics believed otherwise. They used this tree to make shields for battle and paddles for boats. They know that power it held and used it overcome spiritual limitations. With the Aspen by your side you can enter the darkness with no fear. This delicate tree helps you enter the unknown with strength and fortitude. As we enter the dark months of the year it is time to enter the dark unknown parts of ourselves and explore and discover who and what we really are. Many of us have reject who we are, and with this comes a fear towards life. “Know thy self” and all will be shown to you. In this dormant season we start to do the real work on our spiritual foundation. We cast away old fears and illusions that no longer serve us and with this comes a fresh start, a new birth. So, take November and not only give thanks, but also explore your fears. Dissect and understand what is keeping you from living the life your dreams. To fear is the absence of love and if we have faith in the universe then we know that all is love and there is nothing to fear but fear its self! As F.D.R said so elegantly.

The Aspen does not only help us over come are fears, but also has meditational values to. In folklore medication it is used for the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism, as well as urinary infections and diarrhea. Native Americans would make a tea out of the leaves for menstrual cramps. The roots were used in poultice for cuts and bruises when needed. Today the Aspen is most widely used as a Bach remedy for the removal of fears.

With the beginning of this scared month of November take the time to slay the dragon of fear in your garden called life. Take the reigns and create a master piece all your own without fear. We will always have uncertainties in our lives and the unknown. But, we must embrace the mystery and join with it in our hearts. When we do this we will be unstoppable! I bid you a happy journey and may you find the strength to face down your fears. Remember to explore your Mother Earth. Blessed Be…… This information is for educational purposes only, it not intended to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose any disease or condition. Always consult your Physician/Practitioner before your start the use of any herbs.

Alixandra Peters is the second oldest daughter of the publisher’s of Kinetics Magazine. She has been formally trained as a naturalist and horticulturist. In her spare time, Alixandra enjoys being a freelance photojournalist. She resides in Las Vegas, Nevada with her dog, Homer and her three adorable cats - Skye, Jasmine and Chamile. You can contact her at Celticcat27@hotmail.com