Stories from the Ocean

We are made of stories

So too is the land, sea and sky; and they want to share them with you.

The Natural World is incredible and fascinating. When we make time to be still, calm our mind, open our heart and be aware of what is around us, we can tune into these stories, their wisdom and sacred teachings offered by our Mother Earth.

When we immerse ourselves in nature, we are returning, reconnecting and becoming part of Mother Earth’s wild song once again.

Here is a little story from the ocean. Last week I spent a lot of time down at the ocean. On this particular morning it was grey and the tide was out. The smell of seaweed was almost pungent yet I could not resist the invitation from a large rock that whispered to my soul.

Whale Rock

The sleeping Whale Rock was covered in barnacles. And even though he was sleeping, I could feel him watching me. On a closer look, I noticed his eye opening and a smile appeared and he welcomed me, inviting me to stay a while, and so I did.

He wasn’t the largest rock by any means but he looked very strong and solid yet had a softness and gentleness about him and although the tide was out; thinking he may prefer to be immersed in water, he told me he was very content and peaceful where he was, among seaweed and his rock friends - just being.

Just Being Not Doing

And I thought to myself, isn’t that a lovely way to be - Just Being fully present in the moment.

The sun came out and I decided to stay a little longer and “Just Be” with my new friend - Whale Rock and the sunshine.

I sat quietly and listened to the ebb and flow of the water; the gentle rhythm, a natural meditation - was soothing and with each deep breath in, I let go of the heaviness I was carrying about the future and a deep sense of calm washed over me. The more I relaxed, the more peaceful and content I became.

Slow Down - Surrender - Let Go - Just Be - You Are Healing

Feeling much lighter, I climbed onto the back of Whale Rock and looked out at the vast ocean. I was reminded that sometimes, looking too far ahead into the future, beyond whats right in front of you, in the here and now, can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Whale Rock had reminded me to stay present in the moment and that the future will take care of itself.

I took a deep breath in and whispered thank you to my new friend and opened my arms to harness the ocean’s energy and I could feel the strength of whale rock rise in me as I became one with ocean, rock, wind and sky. I felt strong and grounded and connected with all of creation. I began to hum along with whale song and my heart overflowed with love and gratitude.

“When all is lost, when all is let go of, when all is abandoned, what you are left with is an ocean of bliss “- Robert Thurman

Now I am sharing this love with you all - may you all feel peaceful, strong and grounded like Whale Rock on this sacred new day. Know you are deeply loved and appreciated. Thank you for being you.

Before I left, I felt inspired to draw my new friend.

Whale Rock - a gentle reminder to slow down, feel deeply, and trust in your inner knowing

“Whales are seen as guardians of ancient wisdom, symbolizing deep intuition, emotional healing, and interconnectedness. They teach us to slow down, reflect, and communicate authentically, helping us navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace” - Emily Carter

And just as I was leaving, 3 oyster catchers arrived.

I wonder if they will visit Whale Rock - I expect so, he has so much to share!!!

Here;s a little video of Whale Rock…

Ocean Medicine

Mother Earth always seems to know exactly what we need at any given time.

Throughout our lives we all have to navigate our way through unexpected challenges and uncertainties that make us feel weary; vulnerable and scared. Its hard sometimes to know what to do.

The Ocean whispers “Stay a While” and so I do

Sitting on the rocks, by the ocean, observing the movement, sound and energy I am reminded that we too can be like the ocean rocks, strong and grounded. And that we have an inner strength and wisdom as deep and as strong as the ocean rocks.

Mother Earth was inviting me to be like the strong rock I sat upon.; And I began to breathe in the beauty, the wonder of the ocean, the scent of the seaweed and the gentleness of the lapping water and let go of my heaviness with each out breath. Deepening my inner strength with every exhale, I become lighter and more peaceful.

“Calm mind brings inner strength and self-confidence, so thats very important for good health” Dalai Lama

Surrounded by the wild elements your body Heals, your mind relaxes and your soul sings with the rhythm of the ocean, such powerful medicine and inspiring this ocean rock being.

Sending you love and light and some healing energy from the Pacific Ocean.

Nurtured by Nature

Nature is my Medicine

My latest painting “ Nurtured By Nature” evolved during a blissful hour among the wild grasses and flowers on a warm sunny morning. With my back against an old tree friend, I felt supported by her strength and powerful energy as we shared breath. I felt the dry, warm earth beneath my naked feet and imagined the mycelium hard at work with their incredible communication network.

The bird song instantly calming my nervous system, my breath became slower, my shoulders dropped down and my heart softened as I watched in wonder, a sparkling blue dragonfly perform the most amazing acrobatics; flying at speed in-between the pretty - smiling flowers, as if it were chasing the dappled sunlight.

Rooted in Mother Nature, I became one with all of creation. Cocooned in her love, warmth and beauty. My heart overflowed with love and gratitude for this blissful harmony with all of creation and I began to thank them all - thank you tree, bird, mycelium, sun, wind, earth, dragonfly, flower, creator. And not forgetting the fairies and angels - I whispered softly, “thank you for your magic”

In Harmony with Nature

When we share our love with the trees, connect with the wonders around us, let them feel us; let nature move through us, touch our hearts, soothe our soul - we begin to feel more in harmony with her and much more connected to her; to all of creation and it feels beautiful and sacred and so very real and human.

Don’t let Technology distract you from your Humanness

WE ARE PART OF NATURE

When we lose touch with nature, we lose part of ourselves.

Nature is my medicine, my greatest teacher and constant source of inspiration

I have always felt a deep rooted connection with nature. I believe we are part of nature and when we we don’t nurture our sacred relationship with nature we become sick. Like all relationships, our relationship with nature requires time and commitment. Many are distracted by technology, and don’t seem to find the time for the real world any more and yet it is where you will find, peace, truth and solace and a meaningful connection.

Here are just a few of the scientifically proven health benefits of spending time immersed in nature:

Sunshine - Every living thing needs sunshine to grow. Sunshine is good for us because it helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones, a healthy immune system, and improved mood. Additionally, exposure to sunlight can enhance sleep quality and overall emotional well-being. It makes us feel brighter! Sunshine always makes me high.

Bird Song - Research has shown that hearing birdsong can produce a range of measurable effects in humans: Lowers stress levels and reduces anxiety; Lowers blood pressure and heart rate; Reduces pain perception; Elevates mood and increases happiness; Enhances memory; focus and concentration; Accelerates healing and recovery time.

Deeply Rooted - Grounded - Barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, soil, or sand connects your body to the earth's natural electric charge, which can help lower inflammation, ease stress, and improve sleep. Some research suggests it can support heart health and reduce anxiety by balancing the nervous system

Magic of Imagination - Our mental processes, including our own creativity, are deeply rooted in relationship with nature. Time immersed in nature alters our brain function in ways that enhance creative thinking and expression. Mother Nature is the original playground of creativity. She is constantly inviting us to freely interpret, imagine, and create.

Breath of Tree - We need trees to breathe. Trees are the lungs of the Earth. They inhale what we exhale, transforming carbon dioxide into the very oxygen we need to survive. Spending time under a tree can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, lower stress hormone levels, and improve overall well-being. It also boosts cognitive function and can enhance creativity and memory.

Mycelium - Mycelium Networks Connect Us All

Dragonfly Medicine - These tiny jewelled messengers of light are from the spirit world, a sign that a loved one from the other side is watching over you, offering their protection, reminders you are not alone on your unique path. The dragonfly invites you to know yourself on a deeper, more holistic level. Like the dragonfly we are forever evolving through transformation. Dragonfly invites us to be patient with our own growth and transformation.

Flower power - The soft, organic shapes and colors of flowers activate parts of the brain associated with calmness and positivity. Many flowers release subtle fragrances that influence the limbic system, the brain’s emotional centre; Flowers satisfy our biophilic need to connect with natural elements, even in indoor environments; Observing flowers encourages mindfulness, a proven stress-reduction technique

Our disconnection from nature has profound implications for our mental and physical health. Studies have shown that spending time in a natural setting can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function, making us feel happier, healthier and more connected.

The natural world is alive with abundant love and immense meaning, patiently waiting for you to experience all its goodness.

I invite you to take a moment to imagine you are that person in my painting among the wild things and let nature’s love and beauty soften your heart and soothe your soul; reminding you, that you too, are deeply rooted and connected to nature and all of life.

Feel the healing energy of being “In Harmony with Nature”

Wishing you all a peaceful day, know you are deeply loved and appreciated.

Nurtured by Nature Original Artwork - Mixed Media 36” x 36” x 1” boxed canvas - email for details ( I also offer payment plans on all large originals)

Nature Play - The Preciousness of Make-Believe

It will soon be International Build a Fairy Home and Den Week June 21st - June 28th - Join us for some Fairy Fun and help raise awareness of the importance of nature play.

Nature play improves all aspects of child development – physical, cognitive, social and emotional.

Here is a FREE PDF Booklet - BUILD A FAIRY HOME AND DEN WEEK

Not only is this a beautiful way to actively engage children with nature, it is an escape for "all of us" - both children and adults - from the stresses and worries we are all experiencing during this very challenging time. 

Play is imaginative, and play’s openness, aliveness, and newness are essential to creativity.

Joseph Cornell

Playing in nature, with nature has always held a fascination to me - one single leaf can have me spelled bound, a fallen branch can morph into a little earth being or fairy; a maple seeds wings, an acorn cap a little hat.

“The child awakens to a universe. The mind of the child to a world of meaning. Imagination to a world of beauty. Emotions to a world of intimacy. It takes a universe to make a child both in outer form and inner spirit. It takes a universe to educate a child. A universe to fulfill a child.”

— Thomas Berry

“Creating secret forts, dens, hideouts, and playhouses isn’t just any random kind of play.

It’s a universal drive that’s rooted in kids’ healthy development”– David Sobel

If you don’t have access to a garden, you can visit local parks and woodland areas with your children.

We can grow flowers in pots; build a fairy home on the smallest of balconies; make flower crowns outdoors in the yard. Every child, young and old, should spend at least part of their day immersed in the natural world. 

Bringing nature into a child’s life is needed more than ever before!

You are Invited to Help keep the enchantment of Childhood Alive

Click here to Download your FREE PDF BOOKLET

Part of Nature

I have always felt a deep sense of belonging to the land; a part of Mother Earth’s community.

The wonder and awe of the natural world has captivated my curiosity and imagination for as long as I can remember. Growing up in the Scottish countryside I was spell-bound by her magic and music; her beauty and poetry; her love and powerful healing energy.

Today, I am still that young child, full of wonder and curiosity, inspired by our sacred Mother Earth. She is always inviting me to slow down - to stop and pause. To Breathe. To listen. Observe. Notice. Feel and Communicate

What happens when we stop being busy and go outside to pause; breathe; notice; feel?

Something Magical Happens

We can listen to the poetry of the land, the whispering trees; the soothing melody of the early morning birds and feel peaceful and calm

We can notice the the intricate detail of a single leaf and be inspired

We can discover at least one of the lifetime stories held in a piece of driftwood - what might that story be?

We can say hello to a tree and touch her bark and become friends

What might we learn from a lifetime of wisdom held in one small rock

We can marvel at the beauty and innocence of a daisy and be reminded of our own beauty and innocence

We can be playful with a seeded dandelion and make wishes

We can ponder at the butterflies miraculous life cycle - we too go through many transformations- we too are miraculous

We can walk barefoot on the dewy grass and feel grounded

We can lie on the grass and drift into a dream carried by the whimsical clouds

We can watch the sunset and be thankful for the gift of this sacred day

We can gaze up at the illuminating moon and be reminded of our own powerful light within

I could go on and on and on….but my hope is that you will instead - go on and on rediscovering the magic for yourself.

I promise you - you will feel happier, healthier, more connected and inspired!

The more time we immerse ourselves in nature, the more we begin to remember.

We remember that We are part of Nature and that Nature is part of Us

Slowly, we are returning, weaving ourselves back into the sacred tapestry of the natural world.

Rediscovering the joy and wonder of our Mother Earth and the powerful healing energy she gifts freely to each and everyone of us. Rekindling our relationship fills our hearts with gratitude and our love for natural world grows deeper.

May we remember who we truly are, that we are part of Mother Earth’s community.
May we honor, love and respect our beautiful Earth Mother and all her inhabitants
We are One

Sending love and light and some magic from the beautiful British Columbia x

Grief and Joy are threads in the same tapestry

The other night I was listening to a Grief meditation. The facilitator invited us to put our hands out in front of us, as if we were holding an empty bowl and going to receive something. And to close our eyes and focus on something that we appreciate in our life - what has brought us joy today. I immediately thought of the bird song that wakens me every morning. And the wild roses that have been whispering to my soul recently. He tells us, when you see it, to hold that joy in our hands and bring it to our hearts - by placing our hands upon our heart. And when we bring it into our heart, we say thank you.

Thank you for the bird song and the fragrant wild roses.

Then he invited us to extend our hands out in front us once more to receive again. This time he asked ask us to reflect on the person we were grieving, reflect on a time that we cherished with them, then say something specific about it - I thought of my brother Clifford and our deep love of trees and birds, especially their gift of song. Clifford too, gifted us with his beautiful music - guitar and song.

I saw my brother, Clifford and myself as children enjoying the birds and the silver birches in our back garden. We shared a deep love and passion for the wild outdoors. So many sacred childhood memories; and we continued throughout our adult lives creating precious memories immersed in nature.

I recalled our last walk together (before his cancer robbed him of his mobility). We walked to his favourite tree where a robin was visiting and sharing her soulful song. We stood in silence, in awe of the beauty, the music and the powerful energy gifted from tree and bird. We held each other and felt a deep communion with God and all of creation.

Tears rolled down my face as I said thank you and placed my hands upon my heart. Filling my heart with these sacred memories of my late brother.

Grief and Joy are threads in the same tapestry

Then we take a deep inhale and bring our hands to prayer. We now extend this love and appreciation. Taking a deep breath in, we lift our prayer, by lifting our hands up and letting go, bringing our hands down in full circle and returning our hands to prayer and repeating this flow of beautiful healing energy.

It was so incredibly beautiful, deeply moving and healing. I am learning that we can hold both grief and joy.

painting among the wild roses, infusing the paintings with wild rose water was incredibly spiritual and meditative

This flow continued into a series of little paintings. I love the simplicity and freedom of these paintings. Allowing the ink pen to dance around the paper, one continuous movement. (Maybe a song) It is the most natural way to create - we are after-all a continuous flow of energy.

"If I had not known deep sorrow, I could never sing seriously of joy and love of life." - Gilean Douglas

Inspired by a little bird that wakes me up with its beautiful song every morning, at the same time around 4am. After I have listened to his song, I fall back to sleep. I know it’s my brother singing me back to sleep. I feel my brothers presence in the birds from the tiniest Hummingbirds to the mighty Bald Eagles; forever with me in Spirit.

“Grief and joy are not enemies; they are threads in the same tapestry. Even in sorrow, joy whispers that love remains, and even in joy, grief reminds us of what was precious. You don’t have to choose between them—hold both, and let them shape you.” - Cyndi Matos

I am so deeply grateful for the bird song each morning and the wild roses that keep on whispering to my soul. And for the beautiful meditation shared by Paul Denniston - thank you.

May all beings be well, happy and at peace.

BIRD IN ROCK

BIRD IN ROCK

Two years ago this sacred rock whispered to me while bathing my feet in the lake. Rocks hold stories and if you listen they share great wisdom with you. This rock held a bird within it, reminding me of my brother, whom we lost the year before and so I began to paint what I felt.

My bird painting was simple and rustic with no detail and I had forgotten about until last week.

When I came across the painting, I immediately felt compelled to sit with it outside where I could listen to the bird song and remember the day I found the bird in the rock and my heart overflowed with so much love and gratitude for the rocks strength that it gifted me when I seemed to have very little strength. And I felt inspired to let my paint brush dance across the “bird in the rock” painting once more.

Your Inner Strength is Always There -Trust In It

I began to paint, how my soul felt, adding depth and detail and colour to the painting and celebrating how much I had evolved over the last 2 years, finding a deeper inner strength. Where my heart could hold both Grief and Joy.

The unseen one was standing tall and strong

And to my astonishment, when I photographed the painting, I noticed that when I turned it anti-clockwise there was another bird; a bigger bird, standing tall and strong.

The unseen one was standing tall and strong

The unseen bird, representing my inner strength was there all along. Just waiting for the right moment to reveal itself. I realized I wasn’t ready to really appreciate and understand what it symbolized until now. That I can carry both Grief and Joy.

This painting represents for me - how our Inner Strength is always there, we just sometimes don’t feel it; yet it is there within us - always and to “trust it”

“It’s not the strength of the body that counts, but the strength of the spirit.”

– J.R.R. Tolkien

May your inner strength guide you today and always. Sending love and light on this sacred new day x

BIRD IN ROCK - Mixed Media 24” x 36” - DM for more details

PRINT OFFER - Buy One And Receive A Free Print

I have received so many requests for prints of my original artwork so here are a few offerings. As a thank you for your love and support I wish to gift you a Free Poster Print with every purchase. Simply choose which print you want, purchase it and I will pop in your Free Poster Print of your choice (message me your chosen free print) with your purchase.

It is really lovely to hear from you all, your kind words warm my heart and encourage me to keep on the path I walk. Bless you all on this sacred new day, how grateful I am to be alive and to share this sacred journey with kindred spirits.

I will continue to add more prints to my collection throughout the year as it unfolds.

NEW AND OLD PRINTS AVAILABLE BELOW

NEW BEGINNINGS POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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DANDELION MAGIC POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Bird in Rock

BIRD IN ROCK POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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RETURNING TO THE FOREST POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Among the Trees (Strong and Grounded) POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Tulip Sisters

TULIP SISTERS POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Grandmother Blossom Tree

Grandmother POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Holding You

HOLDING YOU POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Original Artwork Available - please contact me for details

Tree Medicine (Connected)

TREE MEDICINE (Connected) POSTER PRINT 8.5” x 11” $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Snowdrop Blessings

SNOWDROP BLESSINGS POSTER PRINT - Poster Print - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Original Artwork Available - please contact me for details

Sunflower Sisters

SUNFLOWER SISTERS POSTER PRINT - Poster Print - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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LOVERS GARDEN POSTER PRINT 8.5” x 11” $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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AUTUMN SISTERS POSTER PRINT 8.5” x 11” $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Original Artwork Available - please contact me for details

Inner Strength 2 (Interwoven)

INNER STRENGTH 2(Interwoven) POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Joyful Birdsong

JOYFUL BIRDSONG POSTER PRINT 8.5 x 11” $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Sunflower Song

SUNFLOWER SONG POSTER PRINT 8.5 x 11” $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Original Artwork Available - please contact me for details

HOLDING MOON POSTER PRINT - 8.5 x 11” $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Garden of Love - Refection

GARDEN OF LOVE (Reflection) POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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DRAGONFLY MEDICINE POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Original Artwork Available - please contact me for details

DEAR PINE CONE POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Original Artwork Available - please contact me for details

WALK WITH ME POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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Original Artwork Available - please contact me for details

HEALING GARDEN (Cornflowers) POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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GRASSHOPPER RIDE POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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PEACE (Garden of love) POSTER PRINT $19.00 plus $10 shipping - Total $29.00

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If you don’t see the art piece you would like to purchase simply email me : info@marghanita.com and I will send you details on your chosen piece.

LARGER PRINTS AND FINE ART GICLEE PRINTS ARE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

Grandmother Tree

GRANDMOTHER TREE

PRINT AVAILABLE - Poster Print - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Resting In Nature

RESTING IN NATURE

PRINT AVAILABLE - Poster Print - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Among the Trees

AMONG THE TREES

PRINT AVAILABLE - Poster Print - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Mother Earth’s Womb

MOTHER EARTH’S WOMB

MOTHER EARTH’S WOMB POSTER PRINT - Poster Print - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Hummingbird Beings

HUMMING BIRD BEINGS POSTER PRINT

- Poster Print - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Mother Earth Goddess

MOTHER EARTH GODDESS -POSTER PRINT- 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Holding You Close

HOLDING YOU CLOSE POSTER PRINT - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Dispatched within 2-3 days.

Wind Song

WIND SONG POSTER PRINT - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Cocooned

COCOONED POSTER PRINT 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Blue Poppy Fairies

BLUE POPPY FAIRIES POSTER PRINT 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Cedar Womb

CEDAR WOMB POSTER PRINT - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Morning Moon Dance

Morning Moon Dance POSTER PRINT - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Dragonfly Dreamer

DRAGONFLY DREAMER POSTER PRINT 11” x 8” - landscape $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Rainforest Child

Rainforest Child Poster Print - 8.5” x 11” - with white border - $19.00 (Postage 10.00) Total - $29.00

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Healing Power of Trees

HEALING WITH TREES - One Breath at a Time

I would like to share my Tree Mediation with You

Trees are teachers of resilience, deeply rooted in the ground, yet able to bend and dance in a raging storm.They remind us - we too, can stay strong and grounded during these strange and bewildering times.

If you are unable to get out to stand with a tree, I invite you to take a moment and join me for a simple meditation that will help you feel more grounded.

Watch Meditation Video Here

Just take a moment to just be here in this beautiful, glorious, joy-filled moment

Just breathing in the beauty; breathing in the love; powerful healing energy. Let us harness this beautiful energy. Bring it into our hearts. Allow this beautiful healing energy to flow through your entire being.

I feel blessed and so full of gratitude to be able to share this beautiful sacred meditation with you today.

Nature is my Medicine and greatest teacher

Several nights ago I dreamt I was standing under an ancient Grandmother tree in full blossom and she whispered softly to me “stay a while” and so I did. I was filled with wonder and awe by her love and beauty, her strength and gentleness and her incredible healing energy as we exchanged sacred breath. I awoke the next day and painted my Grandmother Blossom Tree.

Simply Sitting with a Painting Can Bring Peace

Imagine you are in the painting standing under Grandmother Tree - take a few deep breathes in; and slowly breathe out - exchanging breath with Grandmother Blossom. Place one hand on your heart and your other hand on her bark. Feel Grandmother Blossom’s love and healing energy flow through your entire being.

Original Artwork - Grandmother Blossom Tree - Mixed Media - 12” x 18” - SOLD

However Poster Prints are available below:

Grandmother Blossom Tree - 8.5x11” Poster Print 19.99 (plus $10 shipping flat rate) Total $29.99

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May you too, feel strong and grounded, deeply rooted.

My heart is full on this sacred new day, deeply grateful for the love and wisdom; and the healing energy these beautiful beings bring to our enchanting world

Sending love and light and healing energy from Grandmother Blossom Tree.

Dandelion Medicine

Dandelion Magic - New Painting

Oh how I love Dandelions, they are one of the first Spring flowers that share their Golden Smiles with us. They invite us to play, explore, imagine and create and so I did.

I painted some Dandelion “Magic” Medicine

Dandelion “Magic” Medicine

Dandelions make me smile. I love their golden smiles; they whisper, come stay a while, and so I do. I crouch down low among the dandelions and watch the little fairies and angels that arrive to gift blessings of gratitude for the abundant gifts the dandelions share with us all.

Not only do the dandelions gift immense joy and wonder and stir happy childhood memories playing in the garden making fairy crowns and potions; they also have amazing nutritional benefits, and medicinal properties. I have recently started drinking dandelion root tea as an alternative to coffee, and love it. They are also resilient plants that support pollinators and improve soil health and ecosystems.

I am deeply grateful to the dandelions for their love and beauty and powerful healing energy, for their abundant gifts for so many living beings and I love when they go to seed - inviting us to send fairy messages carried by the wind - oh so magical - I could go on and on but instead I invite you to share what you love about Dandelions.

What do you love about dandelions?

Please do share, I would love to hear your dandelion stories.

Wishing you a magical and enchanting Sunday. Sending you all some Dandelion Wishes of Good Health and a Calm and Peaceful Heart.

Dandelion Magic - Medicine - Original painting - 9” x 7” x 1” wooden boxed canvas - mixed media - DM for details

Peace Among the Tulips

I remember tulips from my childhood, our back garden was full of tulips come Spring. Soft pinks, dark amethyst and mauve alongside burnt-orange and saffron dancing happily; a feast for the senses.

Photo credit - Jennifer Ngoc Phan

Watching the Venerable monks on their Peace Walk, these last few weeks, clothed in their rich earth toned robes, receiving and gifting flowers along their peaceful journey, spreading peace and love everywhere they walked reminded me of happy peaceful days in my garden, barefoot among the tulips and inspired this painting.

Peace Among the Tulips

Although I did not attend the Peace walk in person, I was there in spirit and I found myself crying throughout the journey. For sometime now, I have felt that the world had become fragmented; however witnessing the tenderness shared between the monks and all the people coming together for values that unite all of humanity. It was spiritually uplifting and gave me hope.

Peace Unites Us

“This walk has shown that no matter what race you might belong to, whatever ethnicity you might come from, whatever religious faith you might adhere to, whatever the color of your skin might be, we all celebrate peace.” Everyone came together in the spirit of compassion and mutual respect.

Monk Bhikku Pannakara’s desire for the Walk was not to teach Buddhism, or convert anyone to Buddhism. His desire was to teach MINDFULNESS, which is a path of peace for all people.

He reminded us, that Peace is Within and sometimes all we need is a simple reminder that we can all cultivate a peaceful mind and heart, through mindfulness.

To stop and pause, even for a few moments, and notice one another, to be in the present moment; to notice the bird song, notice our sacred breath; the beauty and wonder that surrounds us.

Following the monks walk has been a soothing balm during these strange and bewildering times. I have found a new lease of energy growing inside of me. I am full of hope and feel peaceful; grounded and inspired. And I know others are feeling this too. I am deeply grateful to all who were involved in making the Walk for Peace possible.

Even though the air is still bitterly cold and snow, I am told, is on its way tonight, Spring has already sprung within me and flowing into my art.

The Tulips remind us to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of every day life. And their growth symbolizes the rhythm of life, endings and new beginnings. I have always found nature to be my greatest teacher and healer.

May you and all beings be well, happy and at peace. Love Marghanita x

Today will be my Peaceful Day

Image-Walk For Peace Official website : https://www.walkforpeace.us/

Like many, many thousands of people, I have been deeply moved by the Venerable monks on their “Walk for Peace’ from Texas to Washington DC. I found myself crying at times, tears of joy as I watched the monks share their deep love with everyone they encountered along the way, that beautiful soulful human connection; inspiring unity, compassion, and mindful living; witnessing this was spiritually uplifting ; and reaffirming my belief in humanity.

The other day, I was gazing at my little driftwood angel that sits peacefully on my windowsill and it reminded me of the monks; they are like angels, visiting us, spreading peace, love and hope wherever they walk.

And then I thought to myself, how lovely it would be to make a driftwood monk that I could place near my bed (or next to my angel on the windowsill) reminding me, every morning of Bhikkhu Pannakara’s words “Today will be my Peaceful Day”.

I made a short video so that you could make a monk too if you so wished. Here is the video below:

HOW TO MAKE A LITTLE DRIFTWOOD MONK

I know you will love the peaceful and healing process of making your monk. And I am sure you will find the perfect spot to place your monk and let their presence be a beautiful reminder that “Today will be my Peaceful Day” - Bhikkhu Pannakara

You will require the following items:

• A piece of driftwood or a fallen branch, you could remove the bark to make it smooth if you are painting it

• Wire of your choice, I reused an old piece copper wire but any thin wire will do

• A recycled wooden bead

• Fabric, or felt or wool (optional)

• Paint - I used natural earth paint but you can use any kind of non toxic paint

Hand making the driftwood monk was a very peaceful and meditative process. Creating grounds you in the present moment. Part of the joy of making something from nature is searching for a piece of driftwood (or fallen branch) We can take this opportunity to wander and walk slowly, without rushing which invites awareness—of breath, body and surroundings. When we walk slow we can listen, listen to the sounds of nature and listen to the fallen branch; a piece of driftwood whisper to you. Blessing our branch and giving thanks for the gift from our Mother Earth. What a beautiful offering to begin our creative journey making our monk.

Bhikkhu Pannakara reminds us that “Peace already abides within each of us, and happiness is already present within us. We have simply forgotten. This present moment is the time to awaken peace and happiness once again. May you and all beings be well, happy, and at peace.”

Deep gratitude to all the monks and all who were involved in making the Walk for Peace possible. You can learn more about the peace walk here: WALK FOR PEACE

If you are inspired to make a wooden monk, I would love to see your creations, please do share. Each one created is unique and beautiful like each monk, like each one of us.

May you and all beings be well, happy, and at peace. Sending love and light and peace, Marghanita x

Healing with Trees - One Breathe at a Time

Several nights ago I dreamt I was standing under an ancient Grandmother tree in full blossom and she whispered softly to me “stay a while” and so I did.  I was filled with wonder and awe by her love and beauty, her strength and gentleness and her incredible healing energy as we exchanged sacred breath. I awoke the next day and painted my Grandmother Blossom Tree.

My heart is full on this sacred new day, deeply grateful for the love and wisdom; and the healing energy these beautiful beings bring to our enchanting world. 

“Between a human and a tree is the breath.
We are each other’s air.”
– Margaret Bates

Nature is my Medicine and greatest teacher. Trees are teachers of resilience, deeply rooted in the ground, yet able to bend and dance in a raging storm. These sacred, ancient beings remind us we too can stay strong and grounded during these strange and bewildering times.

Feel the Energy

If you are unable to get out to stand with a tree, I invite you to take a moment and imagine you are in the painting standing under Grandmother Tree - take a few deep breathes in; and slowly breathe out - exchanging breath with Grandmother Blossom. Place one hand on your heart and your other hand on her bark. Feel Grandmother Blossom’s love and healing energy flow through your entire being.

May you too, feel strong and grounded, deeply rooted.

Here is a beautiful share from David Takahashi( bDharma) - Exchanging Breath with Trees

Inviting Sacred Presence

“There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colours are brighter, the air softer, and the morning more fragrant than ever again.”  —Elizabeth Lawrence.

Sacred presence brings a spiritual dimension to this practice. Drala is the living energy of wisdom and vitality that arises when we engage with the world with openness and reverence.

We actively attract Drala into our experience by exchanging breath with a tree. The tree, a living conduit of sacred energy, offers its stability and life force as a gift, which we receive with gratitude. We invite Drala to awaken within and around us with each breath, transforming the exchange into a sacred ritual. This practice becomes a way to engage with the natural world and the spiritual energy that infuses all existence.

The fruition of incorporating Drala into this practice is an elevated sense of presence and harmony. We begin to see the sacred in the trees and all aspects of life, fostering a deeper connection to the world and a renewed sense of purpose.

Integrating Intention, Reciprocity, and Cycles

This practice is enriched by intention and heartfelt presence. Approaching trees—and nature as a whole—with curiosity and openness creates the conditions for genuine connection. The sense of reciprocity cultivated in exchanging breath reminds us to carry this mindset into all areas of life: to give as much as we receive and to express gratitude through acts of stewardship.

Additionally, seasonal and cyclical awareness can enhance the practice. A tree in winter may symbolize stillness and resilience, while a tree in summer may embody abundance and vitality. Each season offers unique lessons that can deepen our experience.

You can read the full post here: https://bdharma.world/exchanging-breath-with-trees/

Original Artwork - Grandmother Blossom Tree - Mixed Media - 12” x 18” -DM for details.

Prints are available below:

Grandmother Blossom Tree - 8.5x11” Poster Print 19.99 (plus $10 shipping flat rate) Total $29.99

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Sending love and light and healing energy, peace, Marghanita x

(Garden of Love) - The Lovers

This was an incredibly spiritual and healing piece of artwork to paint. At one point while listening to a piece of music (Are we still here) the words sank deep into my heart and I felt great sadness as I paused to think about resent events.

I sat with the sadness then I looked at my couple in the painting wrapped in love, surrounded in beauty and tranquility of the garden.

And said out loud - Yes, we are still here.

And my heart began to soften again and my spirit danced as did my paint brush with joy - knowing love conquers all.

Love Conquers All

How precious Gardens of Love are. Not only are gardens full of beauty and wonder - gardens symbolize growth, endurance, hope and we can witness the full cycle of life in a garden of love; a beautiful and enchanting reminder that we are not separate from nature, we are nature!

Gardens offer a sanctuary where we can relax, find solitude and peace, allowing for reflection on your thoughts and emotions.

What flowers might you plant in the Garden of Love?

What flowers are you planting this year? do you have a favourite flower? Please do share I love to hear what flowers people are growing.

Here is my finished painting. Mixed Media 12” x 18” x 1” boxed wooden canvas (DM for details) Prints also available here: PRINT OFFER

The Lovers (Garden of Love)

Wishing you all a peaceful weekend, know you are deeply loved and appreciated, peace Marghanita x

FREE NATURE ART WORKSHOP AND PDF - BIRD SONG

FREE Nature Art Workshop

with Marghanita Hughes - BIRD SONG

These challenging times can seem quite overwhelming. It has been a time of mental stress and anxiety for many. 

One way to relieve some of the stress is to be creative. 

Self-care is vitally important and when we combine nature and art we get a double dose of very powerful natural medicine.

This week I have been focusing on the bird song.

"Once upon a time...there was the simple understanding that to sing at dawn and to sing at dusk was to heal the world through joy.

The birds still remember what we have forgotten, that the world is meant to be celebrated."

-Terry Tempest Williams

I love music, we all have our favorite music and bird song is one of my most favorite of all  - it lifts my spirit - the bird song speaks to my soul. Nature, even from a distance, can help nourish our body, mind, heart and spirit.

Nature Art is Nourishing and Healing

Today I am sharing a Free Workshop and PDF on how we can experience great joy through Nature Art. Download the FREE PDF and watch the video:

WATCH THE VIDEO

Free PDF to accompany this video is available here:

FREE PDF

The nature art workshops are based on the spirit of sharing and caring and connecting with our natural world. Our first session is celebrating our feathered friends and their song. In this unique session we will do a short meditation - awakening the senses, before playfully exploring bird song and what it means to us personally and collectively through expressive art.

Be Kind to Yourself - Make Time for Creativity

Nature Art I can be helpful for self-care, mental health and developing your creative process. Heart to heart - soul to soul.

“Kindness is defined by doing something towards yourself and others, motivated by genuine desire to make a positive difference.  We know from the research that kindness and our mental health are deeply connected. The research shows that kindness is an antidote to isolation and creates a sense of belonging. It helps reduce stress, brings a fresh perspective and deepens friendships. Kindness to ourselves can prevent shame from corroding our sense of identity and help boost our self-esteem.  Kindness can even improve feelings of confidence and optimism.” Mental Health Foundation 2020

Wishing you all a beautiful and creative weekend, know you are deeply love, Marghanita x

Snowdrop Blessings of Hope

“Sometimes I need only to stand wherever I am to be blessed.” - Mary Oliver

Mary Olivers quote above is one of my favourite. She reminds us of the preciousness of being fully present in the moment and acknowledging all that there is to be grateful for.

And there is so much to be grateful for, especially when you take a walk in nature.

Blessings of Hope

On one of my morning walks last week, I came across a patch of snow drops. I crouched down and gently picked one single snowdrop, stood up slowly; and placed the white flower next to my heart; appreciating its beauty and simplicity; Immediately, I was transported back to happy childhood memories of being in my back garden and the excitement of seeing the first snowdrops underneath my very special silver birch tree. I remember gathering a small bunch of the snowdrops for my mother; much to her delight.

So deeply grateful in this moment for the delicate beauty of this sacred Winters day and sweet memories of winters past.

Inspired, I began to paint

My paintbrush danced across the paper, as my excitement and joy flowed through me creating this little mixed media. My little snow drop fairies are singing songs of gratitude and hope.

I see snowdrops as little messengers of hope; there is a purity and innocence about these beautiful angelic flowers; they appear fragile yet are remarkably resilient considering how hard and frosty the winter soil is right now.

And so a little snowdrop fairy was created to sit with me and remind me that hope is everywhere, when we make time to slow down and look.

My Snowdrop Fairy and painting are for those of you who maybe feeling a little fragile or overwhelmed. May you find time to pause with wonder and excitement at the little miracles that are abundant in every day. May the magic of the natural world, like the little snow drops - gift you hope and a sense of peace and tranquility.

Sending love and light and a sprinkling of angel-fairy healing energy to you on this beautiful sacred new day.

Snowdrop Blessings - MixedMedia using Natural Earth Paints on heavy watercolour paper - 8.5 x 11 unmounted Original Artwork and prints for sale - DM for details

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Holding You

Holding You

This painting is for those of you feeling overwhelmed with sadness, finding it difficult to pull yourself out of the heaviness you are experiencing.

It takes immense strength to remain open-hearted in a world that seems cold and chaotic. To keep showing up with love, to keep creating, to keep believing in goodness despite the challenges. Yesterday all I wanted to do, was bring peace and gentleness to the world and so I began to paint and this is what evolved.

Holding You

I invite you to gather your attention to be here and now. Take a deep breath in and slowly release. Feel your body relaxing and let yourself disappear for a moment into the painting.

Let yourself become the one that’s being held.

Feel the love and gentleness wrap around you like a warm blanket; breathe in the joy, the beauty and the magic!

Let the soft, sacred love and light - flow into your entire being and bring you peace.

Know you are deeply loved, Mother Earth holds you close to her heart;

Creator is holding you; you are deeply loved and appreciated.

You are beautiful, you are love, you are light. You are being held.

Please, be gentle with yourself

May we all hold each other in gentleness, may we all be at peace.

Love and light, Marghanita x

Original Art for sale - Holding You in Gentleness - Mixed Media on Wooden boxed Canvas 11’ x 15” x 1” Message me direct for details.

Tree Medicine

What Happens to Your Body When You Touch a Tree?

Tree Medicine - Feel the Connection

Feeling overwhelmed, a little stressed or just feeling a lack of connection?

Head outdoors and touch a tree.

What happens when you touch a tree?

When you physically make contact with a tree, it can reduce cortisol and blood pressure, boost immune-strengthening cells, and trigger the release of feel-good hormones. The physical pressure of touching a tree triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone linked to calmness and emotional bonding. The practice is linked to decreased anxiety, improved mood, enhanced mindfulness, and a deeper sense of connection to the natural world.

All year connection

CONNECTED - The Electrical Connection

The Earth's surface possesses a natural electric charge, and direct contact can facilitate the transfer of free electrons into the body. Physically touching a tree provides a contact for this energetic exchange which can have powerful therapeutic effects by neutralizing free radicals, which are tied to inflammation and aging

CONNECTED - Reconnecting with our roots

I have always felt a sacred connection with trees. Ever since I was a very small child, trees have whispered to me, come stay and while and so I do. My love and respect for trees has grown deeper as more sacred as I get older and I am deeply grateful to my tree friend at the back of the house. This wise old being has really helped me feel more grounded and peaceful during these strange and bewildering times. Spending time among the trees, I feel more alive, deeply connected to the truth, to nature, and creator. Even on bitterly cold days touching the bark of my tree friends provides a healing energy like no other. Soul to soul.

For the last few days I have been harnessing the powerful healing energy that we receive when we touch and connect with a tree and letting it flow into my latest artwork - Tree Medicine - Connection.

My wish is for you, is to feel the healing energy of the tree while viewing this piece of art and maybe inspire you to go outside and connect with some trees in your neighbourhood.

This beautiful medicine is natural and free to anyone.

Tree Medicine - Connected - Mixed Media - 18” x 24” portrait

New Painting - Tree Medicine - Mixed Media on heavy watercolour paper 18" x 24" portrait. DM for details.

Sending you love and light and some healing tree energy. Know you are deeply loved and appreciated! Happy Thursday!

Everything Will Be Okay

We all experience stressful days, moments when we feel overwhelmed. And sometimes just hearing these words “everything will be okay” can be reassuring and a source of hope.

The painting is of my husband (my rock) reassuring me “everything will be okay”

This little watercolour was inspired by my very old woollen jumper that my mother bought me many moons ago from a wonderful shop in Edinburgh, my home city. The cardigan is like a comforter, it has travelled with me everywhere and reminds me of my homeland, the Scottish countryside and my beautiful mother. My mother turned 96 this year. She lives back in Scotland and I miss not being able to hold her in my arms, however I do get to speak with her almost every day and today we laughed, cried and sang one her songs she wrote when I was a child.

I felt a great sense of peace and joy while painting and reflecting on past memories of Scotland, family and future. Everything WILL be okay. All is good.

Do you have a piece of clothing that brings you comfort? Or holds special memories?

Wishing you all peace today and every day. Know you are deeply loved and appreciated.

Sending love and light, know everything will be okay, peace, Marghanita x

Thank You

My heart is full of gratitude for your love and support throughout this year. Sharing your beautiful stories with me, your love and gratitude for the natural world; for each other and all life has been a great source of strength and joy and inspiration.

 I feel blessed and hopeful for the future because I believe love conquers all.

Your love and kindness have touched my heart deeply. Know you too, are deeply loved and appreciated.

Wishing you a very Happy Christmas

I am excited to share some new projects in the New Year with you all so until then here is wishing you a Happy, Healthy and Peaceful New Year with oodles of nature play and creative adventures

Sending love and light on this sacred new day, Marghanita x