The rose of jericho is a symbol of my innate power to heal and of my endless resilience.

When the rose of jericho is not getting the water that it needs to thrive it adapts by curling its stems into a tight ball and enters a period of dormancy. It can exist for years in this state and even be uprooted while traveling long distances as a tumbleweed. Based on its appearance you would think it is dead. Once moisture is reintroduced to the plant it uncurls, expands its stems, and returns to a bright green color. It can repeat this process indefinitely if need be. I find this process to be amazing to witness!

This small plant instantly reminds my whole being that I have the ability to thrive in moments that I wonder if I am capable of thriving again. It teaches me that depending on my environment and what needs are being met, I will go dormant. This state of dormancy functions as way for my psyche to harness and preserve my life force energy until I am in a time and space to flourish once again.

You may be judging yourself for the coping strategies that you are employing or ones that you relied on in past dormant states. Perhaps you are upset that you are not functioning at adulting the way you think you should.

People have been using the power of symbols for healing for centuries in medicine, religion, and various healing modalities such as reiki.

Children often cling to stuffies in a similar way. It is a symbol of safety and love, often at a challenging time. It can serve to offer them a reminder that they will once again be in the presence of that love and safety. It allows them to keep themselves open and not retreat into a state of dormancy.

I encourage you to identify a symbol of your power to thrive and use it to offer yourself hope and direction.

So, how do I choose one, you may be wondering.

The personal token that I described above was gifted to me 17 years ago by an instrumental healer that I was working with at the time. You may find that you have also been gifted with a healing symbol or token within a healing exchange. Another option is to look within a lineage that you are a part of for a symbol that has already been held for many generations. And lastly, there is always good old google. :P

When I meet with people I hold this mindset. I know that whatever state you are in is a function of your survival and preservation. I believe that you can identify what you need to once again slowly uncurl and thrive. It is the ultimate gift to witness.

Happy seeking!