Bach Flower of the Month: IMPATIENS (March 2021)

by Rev. Shellie Enteen

One of the first remedies created by Dr. Bach, this flower’s name says it all. The negative Impatiens state is common and easily identified. Who cannot relate to the word “impatience” and the accompanying irritability and ill-temper of this state of being, even if this is only seen in the frustration of driving behind a slow car when you’re late for an appointment? But for some of us, impatience is more a “way of life,” or can become prominent under a certain circumstance, and that is when the Remedy can bring relief.

Impatiens is the remedy of the Cardinal Fire sign, Aries. The first sign of the Zodiac and the doorway to rebirth at the Spring Equinox, Aries is the epitome of energy. Quick movements characterize this sign, and while these bursts of activity may not be long lasting, they are intense. The drive to get one’s way and to defend self and possessions relates to Aries’ ruling planet, Mars, the Warrior. Self-focus and the need to be ‘first’ in all things makes the Aries energy impulsive, irrepressible, direct, courageous, and potentially difficult for others to deal with. Not one to look before leaping, “action!” is the battle cry, and we can deal with any consequences later. When we had the unusually long transit of Mars in Aries during the last half of 2020, the Impatiens state was extremely visible in many areas of life.

It may seem odd that Dr. Bach puts Impatiens in the “Loneliness” category. His reason becomes clear in his description of the negative Impatiens state: “Those who are quick in thought and action, and who wish all things to be done without hesitation or delay. When ill they are anxious for a hasty recovery. They find it exceedingly difficult to be patient with people who are slow, as they consider it wrong and a waste of time, and they will endeavor to make such people quicker in all ways. They often prefer to work and think alone, so that they can do everything at their own speed.”

The Impatiens type does not hesitate to express their anger with others. They are prone to blaming others when things do not go right and so they alienate those they are working or living with. However, they themselves cannot take criticism or correction, no matter how diplomatically delivered. They have lost sight of the interdependence and interconnectedness of all things and the unique gifts that others have come to express.

Impatiens types also avoid frustration with behavior that undermines equality, support, or harmony in their personal life. The Impatiens friend may always insist on driving. The Impatiens mother might prefer to tie their child’s shoelaces rather than letting them learn how. The Impatiens spouse might be too busy to hear about their mate’s day, or finish sentences for them. A state of constant mental tension can lead to illness. (Skin rashes are a common complaint.) Inner restlessness and an impulsive nature can make them prone to accidents.

When restored to the positive vibration soul quality, the Impatiens type is a natural leader by example who knows how to get things done but can allow others their space to do things in their own way. They are diplomatic, patient, and can display great empathy and gentleness. Still self-reliant, they are without the underlying attitude of superiority and disdain for others.

Some supportive affirmations while working with Impatiens:

“I hear with my heart.”

“Each at his own pace.”

“I am nurtured when I stop to smell the roses.”

Focused breath work and physical exercise are also helpful when using this remedy.

Rev. Shellie Enteen is a Registered Aromatherapist with over 30 years of experience and practice. Shellie has spoken at professional conferences, taught continuing education in Aromatherapy, and continues to provide online classes and continuing education through the SC Allied Health Education Corporation. She wrote the column “The Aromatic Message” for Massage Today magazine from 2003-2013 and her articles appeared in Massage Magazine and The Aromatherapy Journal of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, where she served on the Board for nine years as Vice President.

Rev. Shellie Enteen is available for personal Bach Flower consultations and online classes. She can be reached through her website, www.ShellieEnteen.com.