Growing up, I didn’t have much. My parents did the best they could, but I had second-hand clothing that never fit and was not in style. I wasn’t permitted to wear makeup or have my ears pierced as most girls did. Children and teenagers can be really mean – I was often made fun of and as a defense mechanism, I developed a keen sense of humour and often pointed the humour away from myself. Thankfully, it worked for me, but not everyone has coping mechanisms in place.

Lately there seems to be a rampant use of shaming (sexual, pets, drought, wealth, poverty and affiliation). Why on earth is this in abundance and how can we effectively deal with it? I had a lengthy phone conversation with my Mom last night and I have surmised that shame is born out of individual fears. Have you ever pointed a finger at someone in ridicule when really it was about something that made YOU uncomfortable? If you stop and really think about it, shaming is because someone or a group is afraid of/or doesn’t understand the other person’s choices. As Spock would say, “Fascinating”.

So how do we move forward as enlightened beings? My idea is this: the next time you hear about shaming or if you find yourself inflicting shame upon someone or something, take a moment. Centre yourself and ask yourself – what is this stirring up inside of me? What is it about the situation that makes ME uncomfortable and why? We have so much to learn and life is rich with potential; we have the opportunity to come from a place of compassion instead of a place of ridicule if only we take a few moments to really allow ourselves to experience and understand.

Rock rose, also known as “Rose of Sharon” or Cistus ladanifer is an exquisite essential oil that helps dissipate fear, while building up courage. It provides support, centering and deep nurturing. It is also a remarkable treatment for swollen lymph glands and facilitates lymphatic cleansing which, as we all know, can become affected by stress! A show of hands – how many of you get sick when you are really stressed? Another wonderful addition is pink grapefruit essential oil. It is the laughing child of essential oils, bringing joy and balance while also cleansing the lymphatic system.

Compassion Massage Oil Blend
30 mls – sweet almond, coconut, apricot kernel or grapeseed oil
3 drops of Cistus (Cistus ladanifer) essential oil
12 drops of Pink Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) essential oil
Shake well before use. Avoid contact with direct sunlight, tanning beds or saunas when using citrus essential oils.

Lots of love and compassionate wishes …

Casey Mulcaster
Amarna Holistic Centre
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