I discovered Thomas Moore in the midst of the pandemic lockdowns. I found his books profoundly inspiring and compassionate. Dark Nights of the Soul and his highly acclaimed best seller Care of the Soul, helped me navigate a really challenging period which I am sure many others were also experiencing.
Moore encouraged me to embrace these dark nights, not as something to be feared or avoided, but as an opportunity for growth, transformation, and self-discovery. He reminds us to find meaning in our suffering and that by facing our deepest fears and anxieties, we can emerge stronger and more resilient.
He emphasizes the importance of nurturing the soul and connecting with our inner selves during these difficult times. It was during this time that I channeled my creative energy to nurture my sould by completing and launching my books - Aromatherapy and Chakras, and The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy Volume III – Psyche & Subtle, and create some beautiful blends such as the limited-edition Perfect Potion Chakra Collection, Soul Comfort and the Forest Bathing Collection.
Thomas Moore reminded me why I had originally fallen in love with aromatherapy. It helped me realise that essential oils can help us transcend the mediocrity of life. He describes mediocrity as an attitude of ‘doing only what is necessary and sufficient,’ the feeling of not having an essence worth showing. It also involves giving up on the possibility of living an outstanding life.
Moore helped me appreciate that essential oils embody the numinous, they will awaken the spark of divinity in you and evoke a profound feeling of awe. In doing so we have the courage, grace and resilience to navigate the dark nights - whether it be related to relationships, career, aging, illness or spiritual crises.
Dark Nights of the soul is a beautiful and insightful exploration of the human condition, offering a message of hope and resilience, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, we can find the strength to heal and grow.
