In this painting, I sought to capture the mycelium network and energetic presence of Reishi – an invisible web of life full of intelligence. This intricate, living system beneath the surface mirrors the flow of energy, communication, and resilience that fungi bring to the natural world, and which Reishi embodies on a medicinal level.
For over 2,000 years, Reishi has held a place of highest esteem in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is celebrated in Japan as a panacea — a universal remedy believed to promote balance, vitality, and longevity. Its medicinal properties are manifold: Reishi is known to support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and has antiviral and anticarcinogenic qualities. It is used traditionally to help the body cope with stress and to restore balance on all levels — physical, emotional, and energetic.
Reishi’s range of healing effects is remarkable. It has been valued for its supportive role in conditions such as stress, tinnitus, cancer, insomnia, multiple sclerosis, menstrual imbalances, migraines, fibromyalgia, rheumatism, inflammation, immune deficiency, depressive moods, and burnout. It is considered a harmonizer for the entire organism.
Personally, I feel very connected to this mushroom. When I first experienced its spores — considered the most potent part of the fungus — I was filled with an unexpected, joyful outburst of laughter. It is no wonder Reishi has been called the “Elixir of Eternal Life”.
