Enchanted by Roses
This spring, I find myself once again enchanted by the spectacular display of roses blooming abundantly around the Elfin Forest Qigong Studio. There has been a fair amount of research linking intentional qigong practices with improved plant growth and food crops with an eye towards improving yields. For thousands of years, cultures around the world have revered the healing properties of roses. In Chinese Medicine roses are known to aid in regulating qi.
Our roses have undoubtedly thrived from years of receiving qi cultivated by the regular qigong practices in the studio. Today, outside the front door of the studio the Double Delight rose bush stands in glorious bloom, proudly displaying over 40 open flowers at once as shown in the photo above.
Each day, I am captivated by the ever-changing beauty and intoxicating fragrances that fill the air. My grandchildren, with their curious noses and imaginative minds, delight in describing the unique scents of each variety—some evoke zesty citrus, others warm cinnamon, and a few even remind them of sweet vanilla.
A Divine Connection with Nature
As I reflect on these magnificent roses that have been basking in the Elfin Forest studio qi field for more than 18 years, I am reminded of something one of my teachers in Sichuan Province once shared. While we expect a beautiful scent from these roses, Daoism and other traditions teach that an unexpected fragrance signifies divine presence with a transformative power.
The sense of smell is considered a powerful conduit to the spirit, especially during qigong movement or meditation. Noticing fragrant aromas while in the qi field serves as a bridge to deepen our connections with the natural world.
An Invitation to Stop and Smell the Roses
For the next couple of weeks and through most of the summer the ‘qi roses’ will be at their peak here at the Elfin Forest Qigong Studio. You are invited to come to experience their healing power at the studio here and enjoy your connection to the divine through these magnificent qi-full blossoms.
