Happy International Women’s Day!
Today, as we celebrate the achievements and contributions of women around the world, I find myself reflecting on two remarkable women who have shaped my journey into the realms of nature, holistic healing, and spirituality. Their influence runs deep, and on this special day, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to them.
First and foremost, I must acknowledge my multi-faceted mother, Dawn. She is not just a mother - but a healer and force of nature, practicing a form of quantum energy healing that transcends labels like 'Reiki'. From a young age, I witnessed her profound ability to intuitively work with people, effortlessly transmuting their blockages and infusing them with healing energy from the source. I learned to appreciate the power that some of us have been gifted to aid others on their healing journey. I’m grateful to be stepping into her shoes in this way. It wasn’t until I was much older that I came across the title of ‘Light Worker’. My mother instilled in me a love for nature, animals, and all things spiritually enriching. She raised me as a veggie from birth, brought me up around a plethora of beautiful crystals, allowed me to appreciate nature, to love animals, and all things spiritually weird and wonderful.
Mum and I
As a child, I was incredibly fortunate to have Dragana Vilinac as a neighbor & close family friend. She was the founder and former head herbalist of Neils Yard Remedies before she sold it. Interestingly enough, I almost made my grand entrance into the world at her Halloween party, but that's a tale for another time.. Dragana was a pioneer in the field of herbal medicine. Growing up next door to her, I was immersed in her world of botanical wonders. Her expertise extended beyond mere knowledge; it was a profound understanding passed down through generations of herbalists in her Yugoslavian family. Dragana's father, Mladin, was renowned for his miraculous healings on terminally ill children, and she carried on his legacy with grace and dedication.
Dragana
At 3/4 years old - I was aware of Kombucha because we had the phattest scobies growing in the kitchen - as donated by Dragana, as well as tinctures, poultices, broths and herbal brews - because she always had a natural solution for any ailment!!She would ‘baby’ sit me often, and it was like attending my very own Hogwarts Herbology class. She was a safe space for me to be a curious child - and that I was! I was one of those ‘Why …but why?’ kids - haha. I really enjoyed being around her quietly strong energy. She was quite dry humoured - and had the warmest of smiles - was highly magnetised and had an unexplainable energy - very serious when it came to the wellbeing of others and was very sure of her path. She re-inforced my mothers encouragement of me to be barefoot, and would find it amusing that this little cheeky curly haired thing would seek out the perfect stick to be able to wave around as her magic wand.
Me with one of my many wands in Dragana’s Cottage.
Though Dragana has departed from this realm, her legacy lives on in the memories and works she left behind. I often find myself wishing she were here, to share in my journey, to impart her wisdom, and to create alongside her. Yet,I take solace in knowing that her early inspirations continue to guide me as I strive to honor not only my own ancestors but also her wisdom, upholding the tradition of assisting others through natural means.
“There is not much time to waste: crystallise what you came here for and give it to the world.”
If you're interested - Dragana left a wealth of wisdom in several books;The Chinese Herbal Cookbook: Healing Foods for Inner Balance
Neal's Yard Remedies: Cook, Brew, and Blend Your Own Herbs
Neal's Yard Remedies: Healing Foods 
If you’ve got this far, and you’re a woman who’s contributed to my life in any way - thank you from the bottom of my heart. Make sure the women in your life know how much you love and appreciate them - for its a beautiful thing to give people their flowers whilst they can receive them.
Love & Light,
Tamzin xx