Book Review by Kolin Lymworth, owner Banyen Books, Vancouver, B.C.
Victoria’s master herbalist, counselor, nature guide and sunshine-dispenser Don Ollsin has written a lovely, useful book which shares with the reader in an experiential way the wonders and magic of herbs, nature and life. The process-oriented structure of the book is inviting, playful, and yet grounded in immense experience and knowledge. While referring throughout to herbal lore and remedies, he offers sections on personal healing myths, contacting your inner healer, Ayurveda (constitutions, treatments, guidelines, tastes, energetics), Herbs (medicine making, use, first aid, Bach remedies), Dreambody
I have 40 years experience with herbs, having purchased my first herbal, “Back to Eden”, in 1969.It was virtually the only modern medicinal herb book available at the time.I also began working in a vegetarian restaurant that served over thirty different herbs as part of the menu.
My path of learning has been largely self-directed.I sincerely wish that I had had a knowledgeable guide lay out a path of study for me to follow, as it would have been so much easier.That is exactly what I’m proposing to offer to those who are interested.
I will utilize the well thought-out educational standards that the American Herbalist Guild (of which I am a professional member) designed and currently use. These educational levels can be used as clearly defined goal posts, for those who wish to become recognized professional herbalists.
I will, however, be offering three differing levels of herbal education in all, including a beginner’s introduction to herbs.The programs of study will be modular in design and students will therefore be self-directed in their choices and commitments.Each level will have a cost associated with it, as well as a timeline, and a contract for learning.
In the process of completing whatever level you choose, we can establish mutual and workable learning contracts.And if possible, having a study-buddy and a study group can be incorporated as part of your support system for learning.
I am seeking sincere, committed students who feel moved to learn and carry forward the teachings. Your ability to be self-motivated, responsible and self-directed is vital for success.The incredible world of herbs and the many systems that surround them are both deep and vast --- learning Ayurveda, Alchemy and Shamanism, in particular, can be wonderfully enriching and enlightening.These and other related healing systems are definitely worthy of a lifetime of study.
