Why I Love to Rub Plants on People
During recent bodywork sessions with me, you may have experienced the use of fresh aromatic plants or plant brushing as part of your session. This practice offers many benefits that enhance both physical and spiritual well-being. In the Yucatec Maya healing lineage, limpia is a healing practice that involves using fresh plants to brush, tap, or rest on the body, cleansing the body and spirit and promoting healing.
Yucatec Maya healers have passed down their knowledge of plants for generations, recognizing both their physical benefits and spiritual powers. I am so grateful to be inspired by in that lineage through my studies with Ann Drucker (Ms Beatrice Waight) and Naomi Love (Rosita Arvigo).
Why Plant Brushing Feels So Good
On a physical level, the brushing action stimulates the skin and increases circulation of blood and lymph, which can lead to a feeling of rejuvenation. The gentle touch of the plants soothes the nervous system, helping release tension in the muscles and joints.
The release of essential oils from the plants provides aromatherapy, which can uplift your mood, calm your mind, and ease stress. These aromas affect the limbic system, promoting peace and emotional well-being.
On a spiritual level, the act of being brushed with sacred plants can connect you to the natural world. It serves as a reminder of your place within the larger web of life and the healing power that nature offers. This connection to the earth, combined with the spiritual intent of the ritual, creates a sense of peace and well-being that lingers long after the limpia is complete.
The Aromatic Power of Fresh Plants
Each plant used in limpias is chosen for its specific physical and spiritual properties:
Rue: Known for its strong, protective energy, rue is often used to ward off negative influences and protect the aura, as well as bring in healing.
Basil: A plant of purification, basil is believed to cleanse the spirit and bring clarity to the mind.
Rosemary: With its invigorating scent, rosemary is used to enhance memory, concentration, and to cleanse spaces of negativity.
Mint: Cooling and refreshing, mint is often used to clear away confusion and energize the body.
Lemon Balm: Calming and soothing, lemon balm is a powerful remedy for depression, anxiety and clear negativity.
Calling on Your Guides
During a limpia, there is an opportunity to invite spiritual guides and ancestors for protection, insight, and healing assistance. Spiritual guides can mean different things to each person. You could call on a healing element of nature like water or sunlight, your higher self, God, a saint, or an angel. My teacher Ann Drucker says that our guides are often lingering in our periphery, and don’t want to intrude, so it is important to let them know that you are open to receiving their support. In my experience, the plants are similar to acupuncture needles, channeling energy from your guides into your being, deepening your spiritual connection and providing guidance, clarity, and support.
Embrace the Healing Power of Plant Limpias
Plant limpias offer a pathway to deeper healing and spiritual connection. Whether you seek to cleanse your energy, connect with your guides, or simply enjoy the soothing benefits of plant brushing, this sacred ritual nurtures your body and spirit, creating harmony and balance in all aspects of your life.
Are you curious about plant brushing and limpias? Schedule a Wise Womb Ceremonial Bodywork session to experience the full ceremony, inspired by the Yucatec Maya healing traditions, and sessions can include plant resins, prayer work, and womb massage.
You can also just hit reply and let me know that you'd like to try plant brushing as a part of your next bodywork session!