Interview with DIY Herbalism Instructor, Paula Billig PART 2
We’re beyond excited to be offering the fifth installment of our DIY Herbalism program with Paula Billig starting in March! We're sharing a few new Q&As with her based on questions we’ve been frequently getting about the course.
Q: Just DIY projects? Anything else?
A: Yes we make DIY Herbal projects, 2 each class, and we also do more!
Our days are themed to a body system, so you’ll learn about stress and sleep, immune and lymph, digestion, the liver, the lungs, etc.; different herbs that work with and support the systems; and make projects related to them as well.
Each class also includes a talk about herbal energetic pairs so you can begin to understand how to choose the remedies you want to make- for example, your child’s dry cough is different than your own wet post-nasal drip, and need different methods of handling.
You’ll also have the opportunity to taste, smell, sample, and experience a broad variety of remedies that I will bring to each class for Show and Share, and students are encouraged to bring theirs as well. Our final class will conclude with a large Show and Share celebration!
The DIY Herbalism program is rich with projects and experiences on its own, but if you want to get the most from your time with us you are invited to delve into our Herb of the Month homework. Each class everyone receives a plain brown bag of a mystery herb to experiment with over the next month. Logging your experiments and handing them in, along with a small writing/research assignment and good class participation, are part of the earning you the DIY Herbalism Program Certificate of Completion.
Finally, most classes (weather permitting) will begin with a plant walk outside, and we have a class garden that will provide us with some raw materials and the chance to witness the growth and harvest process over the course of our 9-month program.
Q: What is a typical class day like?
A: Brief overview of a typical day:
As everyone arrives we grab a seat to set up our notebooks, tea, etc.
First thing, weather permitting, we head outside for intention setting, a breathing and tiny movement practice, and a little plant walk with a sustainability topic talk
Back inside we quickly cover any admin that needs attention, then turn to a body systems talk
Project #1, related to today’s body system! We may be using mortar and pestles to grind herbs, cutting or chopping, mixing or pouring - we get into our medicine making. Before class you’ll get an email about what to expect, so if you want to bring your own mortar and pestle, or other equipment, you’ll know ahead of time
Snack break, chat time, hopefully outside
Project #2! Also related to the Body System of the Day, demonstrating a different remedy type. We could be cooking, blending, garbling, all kinds of practices to make more goodies.
A final sit-down, to learn about how Herbalists choose plants and remedies energetically, to talk about our mystery Herb of the Month experiments, and to collect your next packet of mystery herbs. This HoM practice is developing your intuition and self-confidence, but there is a way to find out what the herb is if you just can’t live without knowing!
Final questions, a heart-centered closing ritual, and we’re done. Thanks for coming.
Q: What if I can't make all the classes?
A: We understand that a few students may have to miss a class session, either because of a preplanned event or due to an emergency. We will bring your handouts to the next class for you, so you don’t miss out. If you will miss a class and would like your projects, we ask that you specifically reach out in advance to request that the projects be set aside for you. You will either need to pick them up in between classes, or at the following class (depending on the type of project). We recommend having a “buddy” in class who can help make up your projects for you.
*If* there is space, there is potential for students to switch sessions on a conflict month. Switching days usually works out and tends to be the better solution. Students will need to reach out in advance to see if there is enough space for them to switch days.
Plus, we have a private Facebook group just for DIY students where we can share pics of our remedies, additional articles and resources related to our class topics, and stay connected between classes. This is a great place to ask questions and catch up on what you missed. Class PowerPoints and handouts will also be posted on the FB page as well as Paula's website.
Q: Why is learning with you/this particular program a different experience from other courses?
A: One of the beauties of Herbalism is the distinctly personal nature of everyone’s practice. My experience with herbs may be similar to yours or another teacher’s, but no two Herbalists will ever be exactly the same.
This means that the more people you learn from, the richer your own practice will be- no matter how personal or public you ever choose to make your practice.
“Community not competition” is really a great tagline for Herbalism and all wellness work, really. Everyone has something unique to offer, and every student is at a unique point in their lives to receive it. I encourage everyone to learn from a wide variety of formal and informal teachers continuously!
You can find Paula online at paulasherbals.com and @paulaswellness on Instagram.
