Independently Healthy

JOANNA: "Every class I take at School of Natural Medicine is so uniquely different and profoundly healing. Being on Heidi's farm is such a healing experience, along with learning, sharing and meditations. Within the first evening, I had moved through an emotional blockage with the support of Heidi and my classmates. The Denver Botanic Gardens was my favorite day – we all laughed and let our inner child come out. I loved every moment of this beautiful weekend. I received so much clarity and understanding. Thank you, Heidi." Joanna, Denver, Colorado

HEIDI – THE TEACHER: " Wise Farida, another wonderful class!!! It was so great hearing everyone's healing journeys and how they are diving into facing their fears. April, Dani, Joanna, Beth, and Nick were all so engaged with connecting with the plants and will be great herbalists. The beauty of the Denver Botanic Gardens swept us up and by the end of the day we were laughing immensely from the intense energy of the plants. Can't wait for the journeys of the next groups that come to the HM classes. Love you very much Farida. Wishing you many good years to come. Happy Birthday. Heidi" Earth Pharmaceuticals, Aurora, Colorado. Heid's daughter Kalina is already a budding herbalist and organic gardener!!!

BETH: "Absolutely LOVE Heidi and Herbal Medicine! I took Kelsey (age 12) with me to the Botanic Gardens, with Heidi's permission, of course.  I do believe she will be one of your future students.  She loved drawing the plants and listening to the properties.

I love the connection with the plants and the opportunity to learn about their practical uses. The Denver Botanic Gardens were incredible and I am so glad that was part of our class. The opportunity to prepare salves, tinctures and essences excites me. This is my first HM lass so I don't know all of what we will cover in I & III, but I look forward to infusions, poultices, herbal preparation and storage lessons too.

My daughter also got very involved with a healing session I was giving with a family member who has Crohns that really flared up, and she helped me prepare the energy soup, and made sure the person ate it!  She helped with the yummy warm squash we roasted and enjoyed learning the Reflexology points and applying the right EO to Reflexology points. We prepared Flower Essences and she was great with taking care of him while I was in class. I am proud to report he is doing much better now! Thank you so much for teaching us how to make such a profound difference!" Longmont, Colorado

APRIL: "The herb class was phenomenal! Learning how to connect with nature and plants on an energetic level is something most schools don't teach, and I feel that it is one of the most important parts of being an herbalist. I like how the class exposed us to many different things from meditating with the plants, to a field trip to the Botanic Gardens, and to making salves, and flower essences. Heidi is incredibly knowledgeable in so many areas and herbal applications. I took a lot away from this class that I can put to immediate use. It was wonderful! Longmont, Colorado''

NICK: " I loved the Botanic gardens! I learned so much and have a new favorite place. I can't wait to take my son there, as he will love it." Nederland, Colorado

DANI: "We used a very hands-on approach to developing our awareness and intuition with plants. Taking the time to sit with and experience several different plants proved incredibly useful. The plants give subtle clues as to how they can be utilized. It never ceases to amaze me how much a plant can tell you. Our visit to the Botanic Gardens was the perfect blend of education and relaxation. Leaving the gardens, we all felt a sense of euphoria. I believe this was from the sense of unity with all the plants and the presence and power all the living beings. I will never look at a plant the same way again. Thanks to Heidi, I am leaving another class with a sense of confidence in my skills. With this foundation, I know all I learn about herbs and plants will be well understood." Dani, Westminster, Colorado

TASHA - SNM STUDENT OUR NEW SNM SCHOOL ADMINSTRATOR THRIVES IN SELF-HEALING, REFLEXOLOGY, HERBAL MEDICINE & PERMACULTURE

"I came to the School of Natural Medicine seeking self-healing as I struggled with liver and digestive problems, and a positive learning environment. I got so much more!! Since I started the Self Healing module my pains have gone away and I can eat and enjoy life now more than ever! This week is my 3 year anniversary of living a conscious Gluten-Free Vegan Lifestyle!

 My studies have led me on the path to move to Boulder this summer to assist Farida with Administrative work and help grow the school community in Boulder with study groups, gardens & gatherings. I adore our school & Farida and all the new possibilities they bring into my life, and I have great new friends along the way.

I plan to get my Master Herbalist diploma but right now my focus is on receiving my Reflexology Certification. I look forward to this summer and all the new faces in the school!!!

My other commitment is to learning everything possible about the Local Food Movement in Colorado to see where this passion leads me. Farmer's Markets, CSA's, Community Gardens, Volunteering & Small Backyard Hobby Gardens are all ways to get involved!

Through an Internship with Harvest Mountain Farm Garden I am learning how to grow organic, life-filled, healthy food in a greenhouse and on earth  Did you know that 50% of the nations farmers are ages 55-75?. http://harvestmountainfarmgardens.org/.

Young people unite! Check out our friends at Urbiculture Community Farms in Denver as they turn donated plots of land – whether it is people’s front yards, back yards, unused plots of land, church land, school land and more – into lush, beautifully designed gardens that grow food for the community.  We need more groups like this!!! http://www.urbiculturecommunityfarms.org/

Is there a way to support small farms in America? Yes!  It is called Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). When consumers directly support a small farm, there is a better chance the farm will survive and you get exposed to new vegetables and ultra-fresh food with all the flavor and vitamin benefits. Shares available are: Vegetables, Fruit, Forest-grown Mushrooms, Specialty Herbs, Micro-greens, Bread, Cheese. Check out Local Harvest for a CSA near you http://www.localharvest.org/.

Together we can transform our metro areas as places of restoration and transformation of the local food system and community. We really hope to see families growing together – children, teens, grandma's – and your family sharing what you learn with other families. The only way to keep GMO, unregulated food out of your kitchen and body is to grow and cook it with people you trust & love." With love to all from Tasha

FARIDA: I love the story of each student as they progress through their studies and Self Healing, giving living proof of the teachings of the School of Natural Medicine, and our rainbow umbrella of love, support and safety as we aspire and make fine efforts toward our self-realization, highest purpose and professional goals.

SELF HEALING SUCCESS FROM A NATUROPATHY STUDENT - A WOMAN WHO WAS TOLD SHE WOULD NEVER GET PREGNANT IS PREGNANT

Last year at our School of Natural Medicine Naturopathy Retreat near Ithica NY, Naturopathy student, Maggie, from Connecticut, connected with a woman who wanted to get pregnant and they decided to work together on a case history. I also checked the Iridology and Natural Medicine consultation after Maggie's time with her, and supported and guided Maggie through some months of inspiration, program creation and follow up. This is the success story of her first case history. Impressive!

Dear Farida,
    Happy news!  My client, who is in her late 30's, was told by multiple doctors that she would never be able to conceive naturally, and that her only recourse would be to try IVF. Well, she has shown them that natural medicine works -- she is 4 months PREGNANT! 
    She started her healing program in August of 2011, and diligently followed every part of it -- living foods healing diet, herbal formulas, Bach flower essences to heal emotional wounds and energy. She also used Naturopathic treatments -- castor oil packs, colonics and enemas, massage, reflexology, and skin scrubbing -- to detox and return her body to health. She used Serenitea to help her relax at night, and was able to sleep through the night for the first in years. Walking and yoga helped her regain ease and flexibility in her body, and relaxation, visualizations, and affirmations helped her create peaceful space to envision her child. By devoting herself wholeHEARTedly to this process, her body became strong and healthy, her previous maladies (infertility, bad skin, excess weight, stomach troubles) faded away, and she was able to relax and open her body, mind, and soul to her child. Needless to say, she and her husband are truly overjoyed!  This is a very longed-for child.

Here are her words:  "My experience left me with great confidence in the power my body and mind have to heal and regenerate, but also a great sense of responsibility that I have with my body to feed it right and to nourish it not only with food but with meditation, relaxation, rest, etc.  Starting my pregnancy after this experience has been rewarding because I am patient with my body, and I am confident that I will be able to give birth naturally, trusting that I will be able to follow my instincts and mother nature to bring my baby into this world without medications.  Thank you for all your support and wisdom.  Please send my warmest regards to Farida and please tell her that I always remember what she taught me."

Confidence, Self Responsibility, Trust, Wisdom -- she has learned such valuable lessons with this journey. It gives me great happiness to have been able to help this woman; I have never felt anything like this.  I would not have been able to do so without your expert and wise guidance.  I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Much love,  Maggie

SCHOOL OF NATURAL MEDICINE NATUROPATHY RETREATS - A HARMONIOUS BLEND OF PURIFICATION, REGENERATION & TRANSFORMATION

Marcia leads the retreats at BodyMindRetreats with her husband David near Ithica NY where SNM students enjoy their Naturopath Retreat requirement with Farida Sharan ND Director of School of Natural Medicine. Here we are, two sixties flower children, still creating Love In's with a deeper purpose - the personal self healing evolution toward life's highest purpose!!

Here is a fun talent show performance from 2011sessions - dance of the lotus!!!

SNM retreats are an opportunity for advanced students to share 12 days together in a retreat center experiencing a depth cleanse, reviewing studies, and attending classes, as part of the completion of their Self Healing Module in Naturopathy Diploma studies.

This is our third year at BodyMindRetreats near Ithica New York, and dedicated enthusiastic students are already preparing for their experience. The retreat is a requirement for Naturopathy Diploma graduation, as a part of our approved Colorado Department of Higher Education Private Occupational School trainings.

10 or 12 days - living raw organic food based on the Wigmore programs but DELICIOUS!! A beautiful garden and forest setting with a lotus and swimming ponds. Classes. Colonics. Yoga. Meditation. Bodywork. Entertainment. For our SNM group - daily process, personal time, review of studies, exchanging sessions, case histories.

June 29 2012 Group - Gabriel, Ana, Dani

July 9 2012 Group - Daniel, Lamia, Hayley, Cheri, April, Dakota and possibly Rosie and Elizabeth

Our beautiful Rosa wanted to share reflexology and iridology with friends she met on retreat. What a beautiful setting for a bliss therapeutic anointing.

HERBAL MEDICINE I - COMMUNION, EXPERIENCING,

JESSICA: "I love love love HM I. So inspiring! I wish I could have taken this class before starting self-healing because it helped me understand so many things so much more! Everyday is a treat as I leave class with new goals and ideas on how to reach them. I can't wait to take more herb classes. Heidi is great!!! She makes the environment of learning fun and easy. I can't wait to put what I have learned into use."

DAKOTA: I really liked this class! Heidi was very informative, calm, welcoming and easy going. I loved smelling the herbs exercise because it helped me find out how well my body talks to the herbs. I loved the Lobelia footbath as it put me into a trance. I am literally obsessed with the tool that packs the pills. I am excited for HM 2 & 3. This was awesome. I want to apprentice with Heidi!!"

NATALIA: "I really enjoyed HM I. Heidi is an awesome teacher. It was nice to be in the herbal pharmacy and learn how to work with the different remedies. I really enjoyed the day we meditated with herbs and got to know some of the herbs. We enjoyed four fun relaxing days."

JOANNA: "Taking this class is one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. Heidi is so in tune and knowledgeable about herbs – a beautiful and amazing teacher. I had a true connection when we sat with the herbs. The first one I held was Yellow Dock and it told me it was a cleansing tonic for the liver to detoxify the blood. Amazing. The Lobelia footbath was incredible. I feel in the future I will have a real, intimate connection with herbs because of Heidi's teaching."

DANI: "The way Heidi taught us to approach patients with herbs was useful, especially when it comes to addressing fears about herbs. I loved the exercise we did with connecting with herbs as it showed how intuitive can truly be with herbs. I gained so much confidence after that exercise. A day of naturopathy treatments was amazing fun and most helpful to learn the most efficient ways of doing them." 

ROSIE: "I love this class! Heidi is so cool and a great teacher. It has been hands on and so helpful for beginning my self-healing as I learned about packs, baths and more. The day we sat and meditated and connected with the herbs was my favorite. It made me realized that I am more connected than I thought. The herbs are so beautiful and this was a big push forward for me to start taking them and be excited about Self-Healing. Heidi also explained all that is involved in being a Naturopath. Absolutely loved Herbal Medicine and can't wait for the summer class here."

 

GARDEN OF SOULS BLOOMING & BLOSSOMING

Spring is a dance of the elements, earth, water, warmth and air bringing forth the ether of beauty, greening and renewal. I sit in the garden dreaming of the new cycle of students and classes for this spring session and imagine the harvest of advanced students during their learning growing healing experiences at our annual Naturopathy retreat in July and Clinical Training in August.

This year we feature two Herbal Medicine immersions, one in July and one in August, the optimum time to commune with plants.

I enjoy the fragrance of lilac, bird song, blossoming trees and spring flowers as I prepare to welcome the garden of souls, the bright spirits of young students who will walk the path into their evolutionary self healing.

The garden waits in fullness for the laughter and sharing of students. April builds a new patio under two blossoming back garden trees, better for the shade - I shop for a wooden table and benches.

Enrollment blossoms. So many inquiries and students coming to visit. Charlie Angelo joins Reflexology I today.

New students, Joanna and Dani, rave about their recent experiences at Herbal Medicine I with SNM graduate  Heidi Jarvis ND MIr MH in her gardens, greenhouses and pharmacy dispensary.

Reflexology I is totally full with 8 students, and there are spaces in upcoming classes in Essential Oils, Healing Diets, Flower Essences, Iridology and Naturopathy for those who wish to participate in the spring session.

SNM GRAD BEGINS HER OWN HEALTH COACH BIZ

The beautiful, Cheri, graced our classes last spring and summer, and then returned to California where she found a study program of nutritional coaching to help her start her own business, web site and all Omni Tree Healing

"I am Cheri Rosser owner of Omnitree Healing. I knew early on that I wanted to work in the healing arts. I chose psychology as my major in college and earned my BA in the spring of 2011. I learned quite a lot about suffering, all that was wrong with people, and the world as a reflection. I spent years listening to lectures that left me feeling cynical, disappointed and overwhelmed.

I was also suffering with my own mental and emotional issues. Chronic anxiety and debilitating panic attacks had become a normal part of my existance. No matter how many psychology classes I took or how many professional I spoke with, my anxiety remained. I wanted to heal, but not with all the pills doctors handed to me so carelessly. Life was a constant struggle but I carried on.

I knew I wanted to continue my education but the thought of going to graduate school to learn more about behavior disorders and psychological torture was unattractive to say the least.

I went in the opposite direction of many psychology students and spent the summer studying natural medicine at The School of Natural Medicine in Boulder, CO. It was an incredible experience where I studied herbal medicine, healing diets, naturopathy and flower essences. There I was placed on a self healing program which included dietary changes, herbs, detoxing techniques and many healing modalities, as well as incredible love and support from my teacher, Farida Sharan, and fellow classmates.

For the first time in my life I was given the answers I was so desperately seeking. I began to heal and calm down from the inside out. It was a miracle, and more simple then anything I could have imagined. I returned in the fall with a new love and passion for food. Through my education I discovered the incredible healing powers of each bite we take.

Returning to California, I enrolled at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. It is an incredible program where I have learned not only major theories on diet and lifestyle but the depth of food as medicine.

Through natural healing I have discoved a sense of peace and purpose that I would have never imagined possible. My mission is to take my experiences and share them with others."

 

SNM GRAD SELF-HEALS SHINGLES NATURALLY

My Dear Farida, I have been very ill this past week from Shingles. This is caused by the chicken-pox with a rash and nerve pain under my right jaw, ear and side of my occipital area. Being so ill, I just worked 2 days. Because of severe pain, I had to take the rest of the week off. I am back to normal now. Thank you, Farida, for teaching me to become a Holistic practitioner.
 
First, of course, I went to see a Doctor who prescribed antiviral medications along with meds for nerve pain. I took them and felt so drowsy and sleepy, but I still could feel the pain.
 
I decided to use my knowledge from taking your classes and I said to myself: " Why am I not using  a natural remedies?" Why were my old patterns overwhelming my mind?
 
I made a Cinnamon tea with Lemon and honey and started drinking that tea (I couldn't chew due to pain). Then I start using my Young Living Essential oils and put Cinnamon oil with Clove oil on my rash and around rash I put the Wintergreen oil with Peppermint oil to reduce inflammation and pain.
 
I start taking Vitamin B complex and had Vit B12 injection, knowing all those Vitamins are good to re-store nerve inflammation and damage.
 
I read that the cold compresses are good for rash, but for me personally cold was triggering pain, so I used the warm heating pads made with rice and Valerian Root, St. John's Wort, Chamomile and other herbs. I was drinking our School of Natural Medicine Herbs of Grace Detox tea and Liver Cleanse tea as well as other herb teas. I used a ginger poultice, ate green energy soup and drinks and took probiotics too. This complex of treatment helped me to recover from this illness in one week as usually it takes weeks for  recovery.
 
The combination of all these treatments relieved the pain and stopped the rash. I couldn't find Melaluca oil that is also good for Herpes Zoster Shingles, but the rest of oils worked perfectly well. I am back to normal now and wanted to share my experience of going through this horrible disease and taking care of it with all Natural remedies in such a short time.
 
Thank you Farida for teaching me to become a Holistic practitioner. Love you always.

HEIDI - OUR HERBAL MEDICINE TEACHER BUILDS A GREENHOUSE

Heidi, our School of Natural Medicine Master Herbalist, Naturopath, Iridologist, herbal teacher,  built her kitchen, her apartment sunroom, her garden, her dispensary and now a greenhouse.

Here is a photo of this amazing construction, heated by barrels of water on the south wall. So not only does she have her summer garden of organic vegetables and lavender for her lavender oil festival, but now a winter indoor garden.

Heidi also runs an herbal products company, harvest organic herbs from her garden and creates formulas and runs a practice.

Her daughter, Kalina, is always right there with helping out. She is already an herbalist helper and loves attending classes.

We are planning Herbal Medicine Summer Schools in July and August. The one in July includes a wildcrafting two day campout. And the one in August includes a wildcrafting hike and a day of information on supplements based on her many trainings during her years at Vitamin Cottange. HM I, II and III will be followed by supplementary trainings in September to complete diploma attendance requirements.

HERBAL MEDICINE DISCOVERED THROUGH WISDOM EXPERIENCE

Herbal Medicine I: A cornucopia of experiences: poultices, castor oil packs, lobelia foot baths, abdominal wraps, neti pot and nasal cleansing with ghee, enema instructions and depth herbal pharmacy and dispensary training that includes enlivening the senses into communion with the blessed herbal queendom.

Heidi Jarvis, our School of Natural Medicine Master Herbalist, Naturopath, Master Iridologist graduate has been Director of our herbal pharmacy for many years and developed into a superb teacher. Classes held in her dispensary, organic gardens and product creation offices are a thrilling entrance into the world of herbal medicine.

ANDREW: I thoroughly enjoyed HM I and what I received has totally changed my life. The exercise where we smelled the herbs and than had to guess or feel what herb was AWESOME! I loved that we let the herbs talk to us. It is an amazing atmosphere to be part of. Heidi is super knowledgeable and there is love in her eyes.”

ERICA: “I enjoyed the open and intimate atmosphere of the herbal medicine class. Everyone is friendly and warm. I am happy I can pursue knowledge with support from everyone. I enjoyed talking with the herbs as that is what I like to do and it was nice to know that it is encouraged.”

LAMIA: HM I was a true adventure! Getting to know the herbs are like getting to know people. Learning about their characteristics and benefits was delightful. They are all so different yet so alike. “Humans live, feel and breathe,” like a plant, Farida says.


HAYLEY: I read Herbs of Grace by Farida Sharan this past summer and learned so much about becoming independently healthy. It seemed overwhelming at first, the vast amount of treatments and so many things I had never heard of. This class gave me the confidence to know I am doing things correctly. Poultices the right way don’t seem so messy. It is wonderful learning from Heidi as she demonstrates the spiritual side of herbal medicine so beautifully, yet gives us the potent science behind it all. the class flows perfectly in balance.”

DANIEL: HM I was an amazing experience learning and sensing the herbs through an exercise of smelling, tasting, seeing. This enabled us to experience the herb and that was the most important thing – learning from experience!!! We were able to emboy the wonderful teachings of the class and school, knowing in ourselves what is truly healing and be able to offer this to others. A beautiful enriching class!”

SHARON. HM I was amazing, packing with useful information and really fun! I am very grateful to have had this experience.”

SUMMER SCHOOL BEGINS WITH HERBAL MEDICINE

Friday, the first day of Herbal Medicine II, was dedicated to exploring how to approach the vast field of herbal medicine and create a structure for hands on experience, self healing with herbal formulas and falling in love with herbs. Philosophy, hebal programs, supportive full programs that include healing diets, reflexology, iridology, flower essences, essential oils and naturopathy, ethics, emotional healing, personal issues and much more was presented and discussed.
 How wonderful to return to teaching after such a brilliant break - first my son's visit, then 3 weeks at Body Mind Retreat near Ithica New York, then a lovely week integrating and preparing, and then the students arrive full of passion, commitment and dedication to self healing and their studies.

Here is the first group. Ana is missing from the lunch photo in the garden.

NEXT WEEK: Flower Essences II with the FES system, diving deep into each student's history, psyche and emotional field followed by Flower Essences I with the Bach Flower system.

Flower Essences & Essential Oils are a significant part of Herbal Medicine studies.

THE STEM OF A SUNFLOWER PROMISES THE FLOWERING

These amazing and beautiful photos of the sunflower stem and flower are shared from the garden of Lita and John Perkins from Asheville, Carolina. How beautiful and wonder-full is nature in its unfolding. We just need to remember we are also unfolding and every cell remembers the fullness of its promise of potential.

Lita cut the stem of the sunflower and discovered this amazing pattern that promise the flowering to come.

Another awe-wonder-full way of discovering resonance of the divine sacred geometry patterning of herbal crystals as curative patterns, by taking the sap of the plant and mixing with 5% copper chloride, letting it dry into a crystal, and oberving the crystal signature of the plant. This work pioneered by George Benner. discovering patterning that mimics the patterns of saliva of persons requiring that herb for their recovery. He worked with the Rudolf Steiner hadquarters in Switzerland to further the development of these ideas.

Lita is a new Healing Diets student beginning her classes in September in the School of Natural Medicine in Boulder, Colorado.

 

herbal gardens - herbal product creation - herbal love - herbal lore

Herbal Medicine is a vast field and students find many possibilities for future destinies - some develop products, a garden, some wildcraft, others enjoy a practice, or write a book or teach classes, or working for companies - the most important discovery is learning how to use them in daily life.

Jennifer, from British Columbia's Sunshine Coast, plays with comfrey leaves - an herbal rabbit!! the  laughter and fun in  learning and exploring reflect the joy of discovery and communion with amazing wisdom to understand the connection between our inner ecology and the sources of nourishment in our outer ecology of elements, energies and nature.

My new garden in North Boulder is based around herbal plants, with stone pathways around the trees - I dont want grass!! a waste of time mowing and no value. How beautiful to have valuable fragrant plants arise every spring and to be able to share their value and use and use them in salads and teas.

Heidi Jarvis SNM graduate ND MH MIr, our herbal teacher, and her daughter, Kalina, share an herbal life as Heid has been taking care of the Herbs of Grace herbal pharmacy/dispensary for 12 years. She also created Earth Pharmaceuticals for her own herbal products she sells to Vitamin Cottage and other locations and her own herbal gardens Natur LLC.

NATURE WITHIN HARMONIZES WITH NATURE WITHOUT

Herbal Medicine II with the School of Natural Medicine is a mix of experiences and skills - the first  day with  Farida exploring formula creation, adjustment and the principles of blending in relationship to constitution, symptoms and health goals with herbal nutrients. Students then go to the school herbal pharmacy and gardens with Heidi Jarvis ND MH MIr who guides them through connection sensing feeling communion with plants, wildcrafting, plant identification and herbal product making - next classes - June 24 for HM I and July 29 for HM II - further classes will be offered next June.

JULIA: What an amazing course! I am blissed by the beauty of the plant world. The Botanical Gardens was pure joy. It was helpful to see, smell, taste and speak with each plant. We made salves, bath salts, and tinctures. I am very thankful and will be using this knowledge for the rest of my days.

AVERY: I loved the opportunity to get in touch with the herbs and see how clearly they communicate with us. It feels empowering to identify a plant, Heidi’s daughter, Kalina, was a joy. She helped me stay in touch with my intuitive inner child.

GABRIEL: I love the study of herbs. They connect me with nature. Nature heals. This I know because my heart tells me so. After our magical day at the Denver Botanical Gardens, we had the final day of being mad scientists in the herbal pharmacy dispensary and it felt like the best day of my life!


ELLA: I loved the class! Holistic knowledge enabled me to connect to my intuition and senses. I learned so much! I felt very supported and nurtured and this enabled me to learn more completely.

JENNIFER: HM II enlivened all my senses and brought out new ones too!! An entire day at the gardens was bliss and our last day fabulous with hands on making salves, tinctures and bath salts. Heidi was a fantastic thorough facilitator. Thank you SNM. It was GREAT! Loved it!

THE JOY OF FINDING WHAT YOU ARE SEEKING

Having such a fulfilling life purpose in the 69th year gives depth and meaning to life, as to give and share and serve the younger generations is a great gift. Students seek a worthy school and when they find it, their studies are joyful.

I know when a student studies in the School of Natural Medicine, they may look forward to an interesting, worthwhile life and appreciation for the service they give with loving care and kind attention.

“Words cannot express how truly right this school feels...like I’ve had an itch on my back for years and its finally getting scratched! You and Heidi have taught directly to my soul and God has chosen such great people to surround you. Finally I don’t feel so alone in my journey!!!”  Tasha, Golden, Colorado

“I feel so very blessed to have had the opportunity to cross your path in my life and to feel inspired by your life, your gifts, and your presence.  I guess it has been a year now since I first came to your school, and although there is tons of work to be done, it feels so good to have taken steps on the path my heart directs. When I first came I hadn't even heard the word ‘tincture’ and now I use them regularly and have even prepared one or two.The space and people that occupy the place you have made possible in the school in Boulder have given me the love and support I needed to begin my journey within myself to find true healing. I have such a deep love you and the others I have spent time especially during the reflexology training. I have learned so much and have a joy in my heart from these memories.” Rebecca

“I wanted to give you an update to let you know that natural medicine is my path, and that I believe the universe is opening up the door for me to enter  I also want to let you know that I think of you fondly every day I'm alive, and honor what your teachings have taught me. I've yet to experience the depth and compassion that your teachings offer. I also see you as a wonderful mentor, a nurturing mother, and the essence of the divine feminine.  When I look at you, or hear your voice (or watch your videos), it is like going home for me. Thank you Dear Teacher. Please forgive me over the years for not being a better student or mentee. And thank you for always being there. Namaste,” Chris - Washington, DC

"Beautiful class offerings, be there soon as it all works its way out and back towards my journeys' goal...Great profile pic you are so divinely beautiful!!! <3 Sending Love and a big hug from us both((:" Kristina San Francisco

“I had the opportunity to review your website recently and was taken aback by the diversity of your experience, your comprehensive approach to health and the depth of your understanding of the human condition. I wish every school of natural health could boast someone as well rounded and insightful as their shepherd. I wish you continued success with your school and healing journey.” Warmest regards, Steven Brynoff ND, Mediral International Inc., Denver, Colorado

“I started reading "Creative Menopause" which absolutely just hit home in such a deep way! This morning, when I read Farida's words I felt...they are my story, almost to a "t"...including the searching, and the changes that are so profound and deep and challenging at times. Thank you,” Diana, Wiltshire, UK

“I read Flower Child I just LOVE it! I love what a strong woman you are, even when you were young and vulnerable, you still had your vision and will to create more love and beauty in the world. You inspire me. For that I thank you Farida with so much love and gratitude.” Mary, Fairfield, Iowa

“I wanted to let you know I have received the box of study materials, all those books, and I am in heaven. Thank you for the thoughtful messages at the beginning of each book. Kind Regards,” Sharyn - Australia.

“When I was reading ‘Flower Child’ I experienced similarities of my own life journey with yours, although we are two decades apart and living in two different worlds, but the same things were happening within us and with our destinies. Yes these universal themes with the same soul, spirit, feeling, love of life! Love you always,” Dila, Denver, Colorado

“Farida, I've been ordering herbs for my sister and mother for a couple years, and taking them myself. Since I've been receiving herbs from Heidi, I feel that the quality of the herbs has gotten better, and the overall vibration of the herbs has been higher, more loved and potentized. I am really happy with Heidi's efforts with the School of Natural Medicine Herb Pharmacy, and the care she takes in managing things there. I told Heidi this, and just thought I should tell you as
well. Love for your Loving Life.”  SK

SCHOOL OF NATURAL MEDICINE'S HERBAL PHARMACY / DISPENSARY, TEACHING ROOMS & ORGANIC GARDENS

During School of Natural Medicine Herbal classes, students visit Herbs of Grace herbal pharmacy / dispensary teaching rooms and Earth Pharmaceuticals's organic gardens and product creation offices. Materia medica, creating plant medicines, experiencing lobelia footbaths, ginger kidney poultices, castor oil packs, and making teas.

  Students visit botanical gardens for plant identification and learn techniques for harvesting, storing, grinding, blending formulas, capsuling and so much more in our herbal pharmacy/dispensary.

Here are some great photos of our herbal medicine experience after a day with Director Farida Sharan ND MH MIr guides students in philosophy, chemistry, formula creation, supporting herbal treatments with healing diets, flower essences, essential oils, reflexology and emotional counseling.

"School of Natural Medicine's Herbal Medicine I class has been a fantastic experience! I took a 6 week herbal class with another school last year and the tools I have learned over the past 4 days have far exceeded the knowledge and experience that I had with multiple weeks of studying herbs." Ana   

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HERBAL MEDICINE – A SACRED RELATIONSHIP WITH NATURE

ANA - “School of Natural Medicine's Herbal Medicine I class has been a fantastic experience! I took a 6 week herbal class with another school last year and the tools I have learned over the past 4 days have far exceeded the knowledge and experience that I had with multiple weeks of studying herbs. We covered a wide range of subjects from confronting fears about herbs, how to run and sustain an herbal dispensary, formulating, harvesting and drying, principles of herbal medicine and more. What made the lass special for me was when we sat with 7 different mystery herbs and recorded everything we felt, smelled, saw or heard on both a physical and deep intuitive level. It was incredibly amazing how the communion between plant/human consciousness directed a field of trust in the divine and subtle energies. The coolest part was hearing what everyone else in the class had to say about each herb and then hearing what we were actually studying (feeling). Many of us were on point or close to identifying the herb and all of us had deep inner knowing regarding properties and principles. This was such a great class.”

GABRIEL - “I smell. I taste. I touch. I see. I feel. Feeling starts the process. An herb is in front of me as I feel, see pictures, places, the herb tells a story. I laugh, cough, smile. Nature calls out. I get this sense that herbs heal just by being in their presence. Smell tells me so much. I smell earth, air, water and fire and feel the ether. Musty, sweet, salty, earthy, sun wind and rain. Smell carries a sense of where the herbs have traveled from and how they traveled. Taste is a physical sensation in different parts of my body and my tongue. Tastes soothe, activate, stimulate. I see the study of herbs as a date. Sit down with the herb, have a nice cup of tea and get to know the herb’s story. Where are you from? What is your favorite color? Can I call you in the morning? Can I call you at night? The more present and aware I am with an herb, the more it will tell me about itself. As Heidi says, ‘Give great thanks to the herbs. They are a precious gift.”

JULIA - “HM I is something I have looked forward to since the day I first found Farida Sharan’s School of Natural Medicine website, and it is everything I could have hoped for. We jumped right into the world of herbs, learning the herbs and acknowledging their presence. The energy of each plant and their healing properties are truly beautiful. I was able to understand their power on an energetic level, being to being. I am very excited for HM II and for my future with my lovely plant friends as healers and teachers. We also went into detail about running our own herbal pharmacy. Wow, what work, love and devotion! I am strengthened in my respect for herbalist and healers and all the good work they do.”

AVERY - “HM I is a practical, yet spiritual class where I learned not only the reality of creating my own herbal dispensary but also the etheric communication the herbs offer as long as we take the time to listen. It was interesting to learn about possible paradigms people may have that could be helped by recommending herbs. I am looking forward to going deeper with this natural world in HM II.”

JENNIFER - “I have been looking forward to HM I as the herbs have been calling me. It was a real treat and pleasure to learn with Heidi at her home, herbal farm and dispensary. It is not what the books say, but what the herbs tells you when you look, taste, touch and smell with gracious respect of the herbs and their medicine and life force. What great friends the herbs are! I also saw how much devotion and work it takes to run a dispensary. Heidi covered all the areas with grounded knowledge and experience and it was fun to see her so vibrant in her element!”

TASHA - “We have inner herbal power! I was so amazed at my ability to analyze an herb before knowing which one it was. Each herb contains power and healing properties. My experience has been uplifting, giving me more confidence in the immaculate healing power of herbal medicine. Being able to see the dispensary, herbs, shelves, scale, bags was GREAT and valuable. This was an excellent first class in the School of Natural Medicine that set the base for future learning. Plants are the future! We also had GREAT discussions and I learned a lot from teachers and the students.”

KATHRYN - “Confronting our own fears and investigating our initiation into beginning a friendship and introduction to the plant kingdom set a background to discovering how to run an herbal business was very inspiring. Sitting, meditating, tasting and touching the individual herbs in both raw/natural and powder form has been useful as listening to the body and intuition engages a wisdom that stretches back to my ancestors. I feel this class helped me uncover a treasure. I look forward to the next adventure of HM II.”

HEIDI JARVIS ND MH - Herbal Medicine Educator and Director of the School of Natural Medicine Herbs of Grace pharmacy/dispensary. “As they walked in my door thirsting for knowledge they all sat down expecting to learn about herbs and their properties but much to their surprise, they learned the most important part of the plant, the spirit energy as they connected with the plants. They each have great potential in the healing life journey of Natural Medicine.”

GYNECOLOGY HARMONIZES WITH NATURAL MEDICINE

Someone reminded me recently of the 12 years I was in practice in Cambridge and London, England in the late seventies through most of the eighties, and highlighting those memories were the years I was part of Dr. Shirley Bond's gynecological practice in Kensington, London.

Shirley inherited the practice from a doctor whose life had been saved by the quick action of one of the School of Natural Medicine graduates, Cathy, in Cambridgeshire, when she responded to a plea for help from her neighbor. Cayenne pepper doses relieved the heart attack and he became very interested in natural medicine. When Shirley took over the practice she invited me to become part of her practice, first one day a week, then two. She gave her patients the opportunity to try natural medicine for cervical dysplasia, endometriosis, infertility, period irregularies and so on.

Shirley studied in the school, became very interested in iridology and related herbal treatments, purchased an iris camera and became a teacher of the School of Natural Medicine in Cambridge.

"I never knew such tissue changes were possible," Shirley writes in a letter. Her practice is now on Harley Street in London and I am sure she continues with her generous and educational personal approach to supporting women toward better health. It was a pleasure to know her and work with her.

I am pleased I had this experience as it gives great depth to our naturopathy, herbal medicine, iridology and self healing study modules. Dulas, midwives, doctors and nurses have benefited from my years of experience with women's conditions that responded well to changes of diet, the superior nutrients of herbs, education with iris analysis and naturopathy home treatments, and occasionally recommendations.

DETOX TEA REMEDY & RADIATION PROTOCOLS

Spring is here, radiation has increased worldwide due to the Japan nuclear disaster, soit is an excellent time to cleanse and put preventive measures into daily routines.

Detox Tea by Farida Sharan ND MH AHG

Equal parts: borage leaves, burdock root, dandelion root, gotu kola herb leaves and stems, licorice root, nettle leaves, red clover blossoms, red raspberry leaves, uva ursi leaves, yellow dock root.

Directions: 1 tsp per boiling water poured over if all powdered; if roots are not powdered simmer very gently for 15 minutes, then steep with leaves. 1 cup or more per day for a gentle spring activation of all the eliminative channels.

RADIATION PROTOCOLS: alkalinize your system with alkaline foods, vegetable green juices and energy soup, alkalinize your water with drops from the health food store & eat high amounts of the follow foods to build up your system and protect against increased radiation.

SEAWEEDS: kelp, dulse, wakame, raw nori

IODINE: high iodine such as Swiss chard, turnip greens, wild garlic and onions, watercress, squash, mustard greens, spinach, asparagus, kale, citrus, watermelon and pineapple; high mineral content foods in leafy green vegetables.

RAW MISO: is a food that has been acclaimed as a general protector against radiation sickness.

BEETS: raw beet juice has been successfully used to prevent radiation-induced cancers.

BEE POLLEN: ipotent anti-radiation food as well as a general health enhancer to support the immune system and protects both red and white blood cells against any depletion from radiation.

LECITHIN:  protects the nervous system and brain against radiation.

NUTRITIONAL YEAST (best from molasses culture) is high in selenium, all the B vitamins, including B 12, and nucleic acids, all of which give protection against the side effects of radiation.

GARLIC is a specific anti-radiation food. The sulfur, which garlic is high in, prevents the uptake of radioactive sulfur-135. Cysteine, one of the most active factors in garlic, is an antioxidant which helps to quench free radical production.

CHLOROPHYLL in leafy green vegetables, the cabbage family, spirulina, chlorella, wheatgrass and other sprouts, as well as blue-green algae

HERBS such as Siberian Ginseng, Astragalus and Echinacea are known adaptogenic herbs that provide strong support for the endocrine system.

INVITATION TO EXPLORE MYSTICAL HEALER EDUCATOR - HILDEGARD DE BINGEN -Saturday February 12th - 6 pm

INVITATION to come together Saturday evening, February 12th, 6 pm, at the School of Natural Medicine in Boulder, Colorado, and enjoy soul light companionship as we explore the mystical blending of the inner life as wisdom guidance for service in the healing and educational arts. Email for directions. Informal get together, tea, presentation, DVD. music, dance.

Questions: What is our relationship with challenges and obstacles that prevent us from realizing our dreams? With pain? With longing? With life purpose? How do we access our inner wisdom? How do we begin when we feel we cannot make it happen? How do we become all that we want to be? Through the mystical life of Hildegard de Bingen we are inspired to bring forth our creative fountain of love, strength and service even in this difficult world at this crucial time in the history of humanity.

My personal resonance and alignment with her teachings long before I ever knew of her life and mystical work and healing, inspires me to know that a very great light and love showers many blessings on all of us who choose a path of loving service and evolutionary personal self healing.

Along with this presentation and exploration, meet with other students and graduates and teachers, and together let’s explore creative possibilities of making these teachings available to all those who wish to study at the School of Natural Medicine. Here we dedicate ourselves to our personal work as we deepen our communion with our inner source of wisdom and soul communion as we learn quality professional skills to offer in loving service. There is nothing in my experience more wonderful than a life purpose that opens the path to a livelihood that nourishes you as you nourish others. Come explore. Be inspired? Let the universe support you in your life journey to create and live the life you long to live. Welcome all.

DIVINE FARMER HERBALS & MARCO'S GARDEN

Jessica writes enthusiastically about yesterday's Herbal Medicine class with Marco Lam DOM, owner of Divine Farmer Herbals, and sends photos to share. 

"Farida, Class at Marco's yesterday was so incredible, I attached some pictures. Calendula flower essence had such a profound impact on me.  Spent the day writing and reflecting.  I wrote this poem about the Equinox:

Sweet orange Autumn
Gentle, somber, and hopeful.
The subtle bird
That takes summer under its wing
And slowly
Grows winter in its ever-ripening womb
Patiently awaiting it’s solstice birth.

This week of class has been so powerful, looking so forward to this afternoon with you, our last day of Herbal Medicine I, Jessica"

 

STUDENTS GLOW IN BRIGITTE'S HERBAL INSPIRATION

Beautiful to see the happy glow on School of Natural Medicine Herbal Medicine students' faces as they enjoy two days with Brigitte Mars, exploring the Doctrine of Signatures, Safety, Dosage, Five Element Theroy, detoxification, Diagnostic Techniques, Natural First Aid and more. Here is a beautiful collage that Brigitte created for all the natural methods of analysis and diagnosis. Students are happy - all is well with the world.

 

Friday, the first day, they spent with me, exploring how any shift of any level of physicial, emotional, social, mental and spiritual, affects all the other levels - the grain of sand moves the dune theory in self healing practice reality. Tomorrow they go to Earth Pharmaceuticals in Aurora where Master Herbalist graduate, Heidi Jarvis, will demo herbal treatments and share the science, art and skill of creating an herbal dispensary / pharmacy. The next day they spend with Marco Lam, DOM, Creator of Divine Farmer Herbals, learning how to create essential oils and other natural products. The last day they return to SNM and a class where I will share the creation of self healing programs and herbal nutrient formulas.

SHANTI SHARES APPECIATION & HER HERBAL WORLD

Shanti's visit was a breath of fresh air – such energy, passion, strength manifesting in love, creativity, partnership and motherhood – a Naturopath, Master Herbalist, Master Iridologist graduate of the School of Natural Medicine who walks her talk in every aspect of life.

"As always it was a delight to see you again and your new school premises. You certainly create beauty wherever you go and are the Wise Woman (like a symbol of my Wise Woman tea.) It was an absolute pleasure and great to re-connect with Laura after all these years. Your vision and energy have helped me to be in my highest self. I strive to keep that vision through tryingtimes.  My life has forever been changed for the better because I committed to the teachings and your school. Come to NZ again anytime. Blessings, Shanti"

Students, grads and inquirers - browse Shanti's website - Divine Herbals - for true inspiration. Quotes from her inspiring site!! "Hello, and welcome to the beautiful world of herbs! I am very proud and excited to bring these herbal blends to tea drinkers throughout New Zealand. Divine Herbals has been developed through my ongoing admiration and respect for the power of the plant kingdom. Nature is truly a manifestation of ancient knowledge and herbs are gracefully attuned to our body's innate wisdom. This range of herbal tea blends has been especially created to stimulate our own healing potential. Humans, and especially wise woman healers, have used this ancient knowledge throughout history."

I studied at the School of Natural Medicine in Boulder, Colorado USA under Farida Sharan; a master herbalist, healer, teacher, and extraordinary woman. She taught me how to listen to my body and most especially to the plants.  Under her guidance I gained a unique perspective about health, healing, and herbs.   Currently, I practice Reflexology, Herbalism, and Iridology in Takaka, NZ.  Through my study and work as an Herbalist, I have developed a unique range of teas to suit various needs, situations, ailments, imbalances, and moods.  Several of the blends I have used for years and others have been developed more recently as the need arose."

Her husband, Theron, a stoneworker and builder, did major self healing on SNM programs, and Shanti are spending months this summer building a yurt and other magnificent creations on Black Mesa, and Isla, the daughter, gets to enjoy summers in Golden Bay, New Zealand and summers in Colorado. Many blessings and effort work well for an authentic life!!

STUDENTS, GRADS, & CHILDREN SHARE WISDOM INSPIRATION

What a happy fun filled gathering reunion yesterday at School of Natural Medicine: Shanti, Naturopath, Master Herbalist, Master Iridologist, now living in Golden Bay New Zealand, was in town and she wanted me to meet her daughter, Isla, and visit, so I thought, fun, come just before our Herbal Medicine I class starts, and share also with the students about your practice, your herbal company and your life in New Zealand - of course she said YES!

 

Megan, our magnificently passionate Naturopath student, had just arrived in Boulder, for Herbal Medicine I, accompanied by her 20 month old daughter Kaia, from Philadelphia, and our 1998 Naturopathy graduate Laura, from Breckenridge, was in Boulder to care for her daughter while Megan is in classes.

They all arrived and as it turns out, Shanti and Laura reunite in great affection, as they both studied around the same time, and our reunion and sharing takes on a spontaneous delight!

Laura shares about her self healing, her thyroid problem the doctors said was incurable and that her thyroid must be removed. Laura, recently graduated from UC, thought otherwise, searched and found SNM, and joined classes in her last semester, and progressed during her studies with total and complete healing of her thyroid and has gone on in the last 12 years to develop a practice as a birthing assistant and support for pregnant, birthing and nursing mothers – she also was nanny for a time to my youngest granddaughter Flynn, lucky girl to receive such nurturing and care!

Shanti then shared about her WOOFing explorations in New Zealand that led to her and her husband settling in Golden Bay. I visited her there about three years ago - past posts on SNM Graduate links in January 2007 - where she practices reflexology and iridology (yes she has a wonderful iridology camera that fascinates her clients with superb iris photos that lead to depth education of their unique body and being) where she wildcrafts, harvest, drys and creates herbal products for her company, Divine Herbals. Her beautiful daughter, Isla, accompanies her as she gathers plants. Shanti enjoys the beautiful nature of South Island and says, "I look around me as I gather Red Clover and other herbs and think I am the luckiest person in the world."

Fantastic introduction to our Herbal Class – this day devoted to understanding how the supreme nutrients of a fresh organic individually herbal formula will shift all the layers of being and open change, healing and transformation. In the second half of the class, the students explored all the various areas of their lives since joining the school, noticing the areas of change and healing, and gaining deep appreciation for the causes they make with following their program of herbs, diet and natural therapeutics - embodiment learning that will inspire others as living the truth and sharing the truth makes the truth possible for others to receive.

DANIEL - THE AUSSIE AWESOME GINGER MAN

Here is a pic of Daniel, the Aussie awesome ginger man during his herbal medicine and flower essence studies at the School of Natural Medicine through May and June here in Boulder, Colorado. There is something so lovely about a soul who connects deeply with plants begins to resonate with the healing qualities of nature - here contemplation on a thistle informed him deeply of many of the thistle's healing offerings.

There are many ways to learn and experience and open to the blessings of this universe and all paths lead to love – love of life, being, opportunity to grow, learn, evolve, heal, and fulfill one's highest purpose of self realization, god realization and true service to others and the planet.