07/31/2026
Much like the natural world, our bodies are ecosystems. As John Muir famously wrote, “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe.” As herbalists, this is how we view the body: when one system is under strain, the others work harder to compensate, often leaving us feeling out of balance.
As Ashtangis, we come to our mats to breathe, move, and quiet the mind. Through practice, we help regulate the nervous system and invite the body into a more restful, parasympathetic state. Herbs can offer beautiful support for this process as well.
Many calming herbs are already familiar kitchen staples. Lavender, whether enjoyed as a tea or used aromatically, promotes relaxation and helps soothe both the mind and muscles. Chamomile is another gentle ally for unwinding, while passionflower and skullcap are wonderful herbs for easing a racing mind and encouraging restful sleep. Rose adds a heart-opening quality to calming tea blends, making them both nourishing and restorative.
Beyond supporting the nervous system, herbs like ginger, turmeric, and garlic offer powerful anti-inflammatory benefits, reminding us that food and herbs work together to promote whole-body wellness.
One of my favorite ways to work with herbs is through tea. The ritual of preparing a cup, inhaling the aroma, and sitting quietly for a few moments is itself an act of self-care—one that nourishes both body and mind.
When sourcing herbs, choose organic whenever possible and look for unbleached tea bags if purchasing prepared teas. I also love Mountain Rose Herbs for their thoughtfully sourced botanicals.
If you’d like to explore personalized herbal support, visit Kimari Wellness, (www.kimariwellness.com) where you can learn more about how I work and my passion for creating custom tea blends, tinctures and topical herbal support designed to support each person’s unique wellness journey.
~ Kim
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