When I was a young girl, I had a strong desire to be a medicine woman living in the woods. My dream was that sick people would come to visit me and I would help them feel better with herbs and plants.
Time quickly passed and that dream was forgotten – for a while. In the meantime, I went to school several times and became a physical therapist assistant, an acupuncturist, and a lymphedema therapist. Between various degrees, I became acquainted with essential oils in 2001. While I thought it was fun playing with oils, it was really only about five years ago that I developed a strong interest in oils. I began making my own soap and household items using oils instead of harsh chemicals. The more I use and study them, the more I appreciate what a powerful health tool they are.
I really wanted to take my dabbling to a deeper level so I took some classes with Andrea Butje from Aromahead Institute. After that I was motivated to get my aromatherapy certification so I went to the Aromatic Wisdom Institute in 2014. I also have had an advanced clinical course with Rhiannon Lewis. These three women are so knowledgeable in aromatherapy – I am inspired to keep learning!
All this brings me around to my original dream – to be a medicine woman and help others. Essential oils transport me in a way that I can’t explain, but I do know this: essential oils (and aromatherapy) speak to me and connect me to my authentic self, the person I am supposed to be. So, with deep gratitude, I invite you to go with me on this journey. – Diane Bryson
