Gemini Season: the Exchange of Information
Plants that were once just budding, are now in full bloom, their colors vivid and bright. The days are longer, the weather warmer, and there's a palpable excitement in the air that begs us to communicate and share.
Think of dandelion seeds floating on the breeze, spreading far and wide,—this is Gemini's influence, teaching us to be light and adaptable.
Mutable Air
During these weeks, the air is literally alive with the dance of pollinators—bees, butterflies, and even the wind itself. These pollinators are constantly on the move, flitting from flower to flower, spreading pollen and facilitating the growth of new life, acting as spiritual guides for us during this season.
While at first glance the flight patterns of the bees might seem random, a second glance would show you just how incredibly efficient they are. Adaptable and curious, the bees adjust their paths based on the availability of flowers, the weather, and even the movements of other pollinators. They even share their findings by dancing a map for their sisters with joy. Butterflies can also be found on the breeze, newly emerged from their cocoons, their delicate wings carrying them effortlessly between blossoms. Their journey is not just about reaching a certain destination, though many are migrating to warmer temps, but about the process itself—exploring, interacting, and adapting as they go.
And of course the wind plays a crucial role in the exchange of seeds and pollen, especially for grasses and trees. The wind carries pollen grains from one plant to another, often across great distances. This movement, mostly unseen yet vital, mirrors the way ideas and information flow during Gemini season—carrying new thoughts, sparking connections, and spreading knowledge far and wide.
Young animals, newly hatched or born in the spring, learn by mimicking their parents and siblings. A young wolf watching its pack, or a dolphin calf learning to swim by following its mother, embodies the spirit of Gemini's influence on learning. It’s all about curiosity, exploration, and the joy of discovery.
The Body’s Communication Switchboard
The lungs, which help to facilitate this exchange need our attention and care, especially as the wind carries heavy amounts of pollen and other agitators to the respiratory system. Overall this season has three major themes and effects on the body:
Increased Outdoor Activity
With warmer weather and longer days, we spend more time outdoors, engaging in sometimes strenuous physical activities that can challenge our respiratory systems. All this fresh air revitalizes our lungs, while the physical movement stimulates our nerves and helps our brain make new connections.
Mental Stimulation
The lively, curious energy of Gemini season encourages us to learn, explore, and communicate more. This heightened mental activity stimulates the nervous system, making it essential to support it with proper rest and nutrition.
Allergies and Respiratory Health
Spring can also bring allergies, which can affect our respiratory health. Managing allergies by avoiding allergens, eating honey and bee pollen that is local to your area, and maintaining good indoor air quality can help keep the lungs healthy during this season.
Recipes for Gemini Guardian Herbs
Cooling, Astringent, Lung Supportive
During this vibrant period, our minds are particularly active, our social interactions more frequent, and our desire to explore new ideas and environments are heightened. This energy aligns perfectly with herbs that support the nervous system, respiratory health, and mental clarity.
Peppermint also holds a special place in spiritual practices. With cleansing properties that can uplift the spirit and help us think straight, the scent is often used in aromatherapy to clear the mind and enhance focus. Whether you’re preparing for a big presentation or need a mental boost during a busy day, peppermint can help sharpen your thoughts and improve your concentration.
Recipe: Peppermint Honey
Gently warm 1 cup of honey in a saucepan until it becomes more fluid, being careful not to boil it.
Add 1/4 cup of fresh peppermint leaves to the warm honey and stir well.
Pour the honey and peppermint mixture into a clean jar and seal it tightly.
Let the mixture sit for one to two weeks, allowing the peppermint to infuse the honey with its refreshing flavor.
Strain the leaves out and store the peppermint-infused honey in a cool, dry place.
Recipe: Milkweed Pod Stir Fry
Blanch the young milkweed pods in boiling water for two to three minutes. This helps to remove any bitterness and ensures the pods are tender.
Drain the pods and set them aside.
In a large pan, heat 1tbsp sesame oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add the blanched milkweed pods and any additional vegetables you like. Stir-fry for about five to seven minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Pour in 2 tbsp soy sauce and stir to coat the vegetables evenly.
Serve hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice.
Recipe: Skullcap Salve for Tired Muscles
Begin by infusing 1 cup of coconut oil with skullcap. Place the coconut oil and 1/4 cup of dried skullcap in a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Heat gently for two to three hours, stirring occasionally.
After the infusion period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the skullcap leaves, collecting the infused oil.
In a clean double boiler or heatproof bowl, melt 1oz of beeswax over low heat.
Once the beeswax is melted, slowly add the infused coconut oil, stirring continuously until fully combined.
Pour the mixture into small jars or tins and let it cool completely to solidify.
This salve can be applied to sore muscles, temples, or pulse points to promote relaxation.
In addition to boosting energy, cordyceps supports respiratory health by increasing oxygen uptake and improving lung function. Cordyceps also strengthens the immune system, helping to protect against illnesses and infections, which is crucial as we transition through the changing seasons.
Recipe: Cordycep Energy Balls
In a food processor, blend 1 cup of dates until they form a sticky paste.
Add 1/2 cup of nuts of your choice (cashews, almond, etc) and blend until the mixture is well combined and slightly chunky.
Add 2 tbsp of cordyceps powder, 1 tbsp cocoa powder, and 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract. Blend until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls.
Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
The mushroom contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain. NGF is essential for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons, making Lion's Mane a powerful ally for brain health.
Recipe: Lions Mane Stir Fry
In a large pan or wok, heat olive oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat.
Add sliced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Add sliced Lion's Mane mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, grated ginger, and any other veggies you like. Continue to stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Pour in tamari or soy sauce and stir well to coat the vegetables evenly.
Sprinkle the stir-fry with sesame seeds and toss to combine.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Recipe: Lemongrass Coconut Soup
In a large pot, heat 2tbsps of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion, garlic, and grated ginger to taste, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Add 2 stalks of finely chopped lemongrass and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in sliced mushrooms, bell pepper, and zucchini, and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Add 1 can (14oz) of coconut milk, lime juice, and soy sauce or tamari, stirring well to combine. If using tofu or chicken, add it at this stage and cook until heated through.
Simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes, adjusting seasoning to taste.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
In traditional Chinese medicine, licorice root (known as Gan Cao) is used to harmonize the effects of other herbs in formulas, support the adrenal glands, and treat various ailments such as coughs, sore throats, and digestive issues. The herb is considered a "guide herb" in Chinese medicine, helping to enhance the effects of other herbs and bring balance to the body.
Recipe: Licorice Lozenges
Gently warm 1 cup honey in a saucepan over low heat until it becomes more fluid. Be careful not to let it boil.
Stir in 1/4 cup of licorice root powder and grated fresh ginger (if using) until fully combined.
Continue to heat the mixture gently for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Pour the mixture into candy molds or drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper to form lozenges.
Allow the lozenges to cool and harden completely before removing from the molds or parchment paper.
Store the lozenges in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Recipe: Mulberry Smoothie
Place 1 cup of mulberries, 1 banana, 1 cup of plant-based milk, 1/2 cup of spinach or kale (if using), 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds, and 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup (if using) in a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately.
The herb's high levels of vitamins A and C, along with flavonoids, support immune function, promote healthy skin, and enhance overall vitality. It has also been found to have adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress better.
Recipe: Basil Pesto
In a food processor, combine 2 cups of basil leaves, 1/2 cup of pine nuts, and 2 cloves of garlic. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
With the food processor running, slowly add 1/2 cup of olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Pulse a few more times to blend the ingredients thoroughly.
Transfer the pesto to a jar or container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Recipe: Homemade Dill Pickles
In a saucepan, combine the water, white vinegar, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar are dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
In clean jars, divide the garlic cloves, fresh dill, black peppercorns, mustard seeds (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
Pack the cucumber slices tightly into the jars.
Pour the cooled vinegar mixture over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Seal the jars with lids and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying. For best flavor, let the pickles sit for 2-3 days.
Recipe: Lily of the Valley Perfume
In a small spray bottle, combine 1/4 cup of distilled water and 2 tbsp of vodka. The vodka acts as a preservative and helps the fragrance last longer on your skin.
Add 10 drops of Lily of the Valley essential oil (ensure it is specifically for fragrance and not consumption) to the bottle. If you’d like, you can add 5 drops of bergamot essential oil for a more complex scent.
Cap the bottle and shake well to combine all the ingredients.
Allow the perfume to sit for a few days to let the scents meld together. Shake the bottle gently before each use.