Another way to add color in the classroom is to bring in plants and flowers. Not only are plants visually stimulating, but they are also helpful in creating an environment full of life and growth. Plants are essential for life on earth because they help us breathe. People retreat to gardens for rejuvenation, rebalance, and meditation. Many escape to these natural sanctuaries because of stress or anxiety. The plants help maintain our physical health and can positively affect our mental health as well. They bring the beauty of nature into the classroom. If we add plants to our classrooms, then there will be a free flow of oxygen in our sacred space. Oxygen stimulates our body’s functions and will support our learning process. We want our classroom to be a sanctuary for the women.

Aromatherapy uses natural oils to stimulate physical and emotional well-being. They restore the balance of the mind, body, spirit, and emotions. They are used to heal the whole person from dis-”ease” and imbalance. Pleasing scents can surely soothe the body so the brain can concentrate on learning. We always try to use subtle fragrances from incense or candles to fill our classroom. Specific aromas are also used for healing and to stir memory. These certainly can be helpful for our students, but most of all, we use scents to calm our students so they can learn.

There is always a full pot of coffee or tea available in the kitchen. We also try to keep basic snacks stocked in the kitchen. During the Women, Violence, and Adult Education project, we brought breakfast every Monday morning. This complimentary breakfast coincides with the Loves Herself Regardless class on Monday mornings. Since this class’ primary goal is to encourage the women to attend to the needs of the whole person, it is fortunate that they can nourish their bodies each Monday morning. Since the project has ended, we have to find other means of providing food for the women. Occasionally, Dunkin Donuts will donate pastries, bagels, doughnuts, and other breakfast items to the program. Some of the women have even taken it upon themselves to bring snacks for others in the program.