Recognizing and decoding the signals of distress are an important part of our work as herbalists. Sometimes it may appear that beliefs, perspectives and life experiences can become obstacles to wellbeing. The yellow flag model can help us to spot these obstacles, reframe them, and help to empower people to overcome them. In this presentation we will explore the origins and development of the yellow flag system, consider how it might be relevant to herbal practice, and maybe look at ways of working together and sharing our experiences to see if we could use it as a way to empower ourselves and herbal practise.