THE PRACTICE

I always think of the question asked of Ramana Maharishi "How should we treat others" and his reply "There are no others". It's true not only of people, but of plants, water, every part of this earth. There is no "other place" things go when we throw them away. There are finite resources on this planet, and we have an obligation to consider that with the choices we make.

I'll never promise you a 'chemical-free' product — air is a chemical, our bodies are composed of a beautiful constellation of chemicals. What I will promise is whole plants, careful sourcing, and labels that tell you everything — every ingredient, the percentage on the preservative. Rare proprietary scent blends are one small mystery I sometimes keep.

I prefer to honor rare wild plants, instead of harvesting them — chaga, white sage, palo santo, Mysore sandalwood. I adore them from afar. My formulas lean on what's abundant, local, and vigorous.

When I do gather from the wild, I develop relationships with the land — returning year after year to tend to the plants, and simply spend time with them. I always ask permission before carefully harvesting a minute amount. The goal is to step lightly, and love devotedly.

Sustainability is rooted in the livelihood of both plants and their stewards. True flourishing is mutual.