While its become a notable worldwide issue since the CCD (Colony Collapse Disorder) began in 2006, for me, I've had a relationship with bees all of my life. This because I was made painfully aware that I am allergic to them. "According to government statistics, about 3.3 percent of adults will experience anaphylaxis after an insect sting and there are 40 to as many as 100 deaths annually from insect-sting-related anaphylaxis." July 23, 2009, Momo Zhou.
At age 5, I recall being stung and I may or may not have had a hallucination involving a tiny little grey bee that I saw crawl from the area of the sting and flew away. No lie, I remember screaming at the top of my lungs from the backseat of the car. My cousin, Noelle, to my left, I'm screaming and pointing, "DID YOU SEE THAT?" They just figured I was screaming from the pain. No! I saw something crazy and no one could confirm cause....well, I was 5. [photo was taken that day]
In 2013, I attended a yoga retreat in Ojai that featured that of a shamanic healer. My first experience through guided visual meditation to discover our inner Power Animal. If you've made it this far, you already know, mine is the Honey Bee. If we've ever met, then you know I also have a Queen Bee tattooed by artist, Zoey Stevens, on the inside of my right wrist.
Besides a personal relationship with our queen, she is a vital aspect to the survival of LIFE on the planet. Bees are the farmers maintaining the entire worlds vegetation. Without them, there is no food. Unless you're good with eating food made in a lab than by all means, fill your temple with those yummy processed chemicals. For those who enjoy flowers in the spring and flourishing crops on the plain, you may be interested in this Daily Om course about the Sacred Beekeeper. A $25 course on Cultivating a Spiritual Connection with Honeybees. It includes the following:
Develop a foundation in honeybee anatomy, gestation, attributes and habits.
Learn about the different hive types and essential tools, along with information on natural beekeeping practices.
Explore the extraordinary medicine found within the hive from bee pollen, propolis and honey to the potent venom of the bee. You will learn recipes and techniques to enhance your wellbeing on every level.
Discover the influence of the bees on the ancient Mediterranean priestesshoods and other early cultures.
Consider philosopher and mystical scientist, Rudolf Steiner's, spiritual insights on the inner workings of the hive.
Each class includes a mystical journey through guided meditation along with assigned practices to establish and enhance a deep heart connection to these beautiful creatures.
Lastly, I should note that I was in no way paid to promote this course. I simply believe in spreading knowledge.