This is the year to discover secrets of the soil and to savour bounty unfolding. It’s the time to get out of ruts and sink your hands and feet into new depths of knowing the earth’s endless creativity and possibilities.
Whether you’re plopped on a small plot of land or plodding through too many acres, take time to ponder the wealth waiting in the ground to be found and nurtured. Trust in the possibilities of the seasons full of nature’s surprises and the many resources calling you to flourish. And know with each step if you get stuck that a rich community of other soil and food lovers is waiting to help when things get too muddy.
1. Feel the earth beneath your feet!
Absorb the healing energies from the earth by walking barefoot on the grass, dirt, plants, and rocks – earthing.
Connecting organically to the earth’s natural electrical charges grounds your body and stabilizes its natural electrical system – regulating circulation, blood flow, brain, and heartbeat – lowering stress and inflammation, while invigorating mind, body, and soul.
2. Pick foods and products made naturally
Wherever possible, choose products made from the ground up. Look for clues to the stories behind labels and seek out locally made items. Whether food, clothing, or home goods, ask yourself which products have histories closest to the soil.
3. Get to know more of the soil – by doing less
Hang out with the soil in your own backyard – without pulling, tilling, or spraying. Think about ways to feed the soil with the immediate environment – adding leaves, dead branches, grass cuttings, or other organic layers for fortifying mulch. Enjoy watching new ecosystems unfold over seasons by working with what you have. (For some classic science advice on adding natural minerals to the soil, read the classic Bread from Stones, by Julius Hensel.
4. Forage for native foods and herbs
Discover useful plants growing naturally in nearby landscapes. Check with your local agricultural extension office for a list of useful or edible roots, plants, or herbs. Take a ramble to find some of nature’s timeless surprises to harvest, store and prepare for your pantry.
5. Shop more organics – as conventional food prices increase
Now is the time to seek out more organic foods as conventional costs have climbed 15% and more since 2020. Comparing prices and shopping sales pays off in an increasingly competitive organic market. Don’t forget, too – farmers often share surplus deals with loyal patrons buying direct.