Flora
Biodiversity at Crossing Hedgerows
One of the exciting aspects of the farm and sanctuary is the incredible diversity of plants and wildlife that has been encouraged to flourish – partly as a result of re-wilding, and partly as a result of purposeful planting.
I have shared some tidbits about this in the past, and thought it would be fun to continue to do so.
In that spirit… here are a couple of plants that are popping up around the farm currently.
Motherwort
Catnip
I chose these two because I recently read that herbalist Matthew Wood recommends pairing catnip with motherwort to ease menstrual cramping. Any of you who have had to deal with that, or have a loved one who has, knows that this is a cause for great rejoicing.
Both of these plants have many great qualities that are worth exploring, but I share this much simply to pique your curiosity. …because plants are awesome!
(Of course, before trying any herbal remedies, do be aware that there can be contraindications for plant medicines just as there are for pharmaceuticals.)
Love and Blessings,
Jean
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Written by : Jean Cavanaugh
Jean Cavanaugh is the founder and steward of Crossing Hedgerows Sanctuary, established in 2019 as a living, learning community devoted to reconnecting people with the wisdom of nature, the sacred order of creation, and the presence of Christ within all life. Her work brings together spiritual formation, ecological stewardship, ancestral wisdom, and hands-on community practice.
Through years of practical work on the land, study of the Mysteries, and the healing of her own severe health challenges through natural methods, Jean has come to recognize God’s hand at work throughout creation. Her teachings, rooted in the Mystery School tradition and Christian gnosis, explore how the patterns of heaven, earth, and the human body reveal the way back to divine presence, peace, and inner strength.
Jean leads with honesty, integrity, and a deeply welcoming spirit, inviting others to let go of inherited assumptions and rediscover truth through lived experience and embodied understanding. She works with all ages—from preschoolers to elders—offering programs and celebrations that emphasize direct engagement with nature, music, story, homesteading skills, and in-person community.
She and her family live at the 21-acre Crossing Hedgerows Sanctuary, where daily life reflects a commitment to simplicity, beauty, and harmony with the land. The sanctuary includes gardens, woodland trails, a seasonal creek, gathering circles, and spaces designed to nourish both people and wildlife. Jean is especially passionate about creating environments that are grounding, beautiful, and spiritually restorative.
Through her writing and teaching, Jean encourages others to know themselves, know creation, and recognize Christ as the living truth present within and around us—always inviting a return to love, beauty, and the sacred order of life.
