Local residents recently gathered to explore “The Secret Language of Flowers”, an interactive wellness seminar on nature as a self-help apothecary hosted by medical doctor and holistic health practitioner Dr Arien van der Merwe.

The seminar was designed to help participants slow down and connect their emotions with nature, with a special focus on the gentle healing qualities of plants.Those attending explored flower essences for the mind, heart, body and soul as well as natural skin care, flower remedies and the symbolic meanings behind various fragrances, textures and colours.

The interactive sessions also featured practical creative exercises, such as crafting personalised nature mandalas and experiencing flower blessings.

“The main purpose was to help people focus and establish a flower connection with their emotions and feelings,” said Van der Merwe, a medical doctor specialising in holistic wellness and adult-health education. “It is a very gentle way for healing.”

Van der Merwe, who has led public health engagements and written columns for two decades, emphasises that her work supports standard medicine rather than replacing it. “I don’t provide alternative medication, but rather a complementary service,” she explained, noting her approach to health coaching was a complementary accompaniment to conventional treatments to address the root causes of health issues.

Her expertise also led to the creation of her own product line, available through wellness retailers such as Faithful to Nature.

Participants praised the seminar for their soothing and grounding atmosphere. Dr Sanien de Beer, a local phytotherapist who attended, described the event as a rich sensory experience. “To see, smell, touch and even taste the flowers makes one aware they have a language of their own,” she noted. “Once we become mindful of this, a new appreciation of flowers and their potential to enhance our everyday lives develops.”

Another participant highlighted the calming impact of the meditation and creative exercises: “I connected more strongly to my relationship with the plants in my garden. I felt soothed and calmed by interacting closely with the beauty and symbolism of the flowers.”

Following the completion of the Strand workshops Van der Merwe continues to offer ongoing wellness engagements and online consultations.