Meet Lauren Snyder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Snyder and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a queer herbalist and botanical artisan; which means that I connect to the practice of herbalism through a wide and ever-changing lens. I thrive in the spaces of nuance, fluidity, and creativity. I love the practice of curating and cultivating relationships to customize my offerings in a way that honors and empowers each person’s individuality. I am a forever student; and believe that no matter how much we think we know; (especially when it comes to plants) there is always something new to learn.

I believe that there are many pathways to building a relationship to plants; and whether it is a personal consultation, trying out a new herbal remedy, finding support and seedlings to start your own medicinal garden; commissioning a custom floral embroidery piece to bring the garden with you wherever you go; or joining me on a sensory plant walk…I am inspired to offer unique and engaging ways for people to reconnect to the botanical kingdom.

As someone who lives with chronic illness; I have learned to utilize plant medicine as a part of my daily wellness practices; and honor the nuanced understanding that even though I can not “cure” my disease; there is potency in working with these plants to bring about deeper wellness and comfort while living with a chronic and incurable disease.

I have built my business to not only honor my own physical limitations and wellness needs; but to embrace folks looking for someone who can welcome them into herbal practice on their own terms; someone who will allow them the space to be human and explore the path that feels most aligned for them.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The lands of this valley hold deep memory and connection to my family. And fortunately for me; Ojai is one of those places in which the preservation of natural spaces has been a top priority for many decades. One of my favorite regular haunts is the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy’s River Preserve; which provides miles of meandering trails along the Ventura River; rich with plant and animal life. When I am craving a little more peace and quiet; I venture up the canyons; whether it is to Sisar Canyon Trail (the home of some of my very first plant walks as a child), or up Highway 33 towards the Sespe wilderness.
Ojai’s abundant trail systems, preserved lands, and open spaces allow for many outdoor adventures for all levels of ability.

I lead monthly Sensory Plant Walks through many of these spaces; allowing folks to spend time immersed in the sensory experience of just being present with the plants. We walk slowly, utilize our senses, and explore the nuance and details of the flora around us; while I share information about local botany, ecosystems, and the uses of these local plants in herbalism practices.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my community. The beautifully woven tapestry of individuals who inspire, uplift, and nourish me every day. My family, my friends, my mentors, and those I serve.

I love the quote, “We don’t heal in isolation, but in community.” by, S. Kelley Harrell. And, I think it rings true for me, in that I am only healed, whole, and fulfilled because of the community I choose to surround myself with. Every one of them has a role to play in my journey; just as I play a role in many of their stories.

And, to Patrick…thank you my love for your relentless belief in me and your constant support.

Website: www.thimbleandseed.com

Instagram: @thimble.and.seed

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thimbleandseed

Image Credits
Erin Cox Photography, Lauren Snyder