Positive qualities: Freedom from limiting influences, making healthy transitions in life, inner strength to follow one's own path and destiny Patterns of imbalance: Overly influenced by the social expectations or values of family or community, past experiences or beliefs that inhibit the soul's evolution

Positive qualities: Dignity and inner composure balanced with social connections to others; ability to share one's gifts with others Patterns of imbalance: Aloof, withdrawn, disdainful of "lower" relationships; making distinctions based on class, race or social status that insure separation from others; false pride

Positive qualities: Tranquil disposition, spacious mental state that transcends personal or petty thoughts Patterns of imbalance: Worry-bound repetitive thoughts, chattering mind; restless and agitated mental condition; insomnia

Positive qualities: Work as an expression of inner calling; manifestation of one's true goals and values; work experiences motivated by a clear life purpose and conviction Patterns of imbalance: Confusion and indecision about life direction; trying many activities but chronically dissatisfied or restless, lack of commitment or focus; work for survival rather than service

Positive qualities: Will to live, joy and commitment to life despite trials or pain Patterns of imbalance: Resignation or apathy; inability to embrace life; pain or suffering that paralyzes body and soul; lingering illness which does not resolve itself

Positive qualities: Acceptance, forgiveness, taking responsibility for one's life situation, adaptable to changing fortunes and circumstances Patterns of imbalance: Feeling resentful, inflexible or rigid emotional memories which turn to bitterness; tendency to blame others or see oneself as the victim

Yarrow has been known historically as a warrior's herb, with such traditional names as "Soldier's Wound Wort" and "Knight's Millefoil." The genus name Achillea refers to the Greek warrior Achilles, whose soldiers carried the herb into battle for psychic protection as well as to staunch the bleeding of wounds. Even its form, a canopy of white flowers, suggests a protective "umbrella" of white light. Yarrow flower essence has become one of the most widely acclaimed FES essences since it was first prepared in 1978. It has been used extensively with individuals who feel "vulnerable" (literally: "able to be wounded") to the influences of others and their environment. It "knits together" an overly porous aura - the envelope of vital energy that surrounds and protects the body. It encourages a healthy sense of Self, imparting strength, integrity, and clarity of consciousness typical of members of the Composite family.