“To be a successful farmer, one must first know the nature of the soil.” - Xenophon, ancient Greek philosopher and historian, student of Socrates, Circa 430 - 354 BC

 

The roots of our good health begin on the farms and ultimately depend on the quality of the soil. Many of us have been taught and encouraged since an early age to eat our fruits and vegetables because they’re healthy for us. That was good advice when I was a child as a large percentage of the produce we consumed was home- or locally grown in nutrient-dense soil with few or no chemicals added.

 

Due in large part to industrial farming, about a third of the world’s soil has been degraded, and if current rates of degradation continue, all of the world’s top soil could be gone within 60 years (Chris Arsenault, Reuters, December 5, 2014).

 

The Regenerative Organic Alliance has established a Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) standard that prioritizes soil health, high standards for animal welfare and farm worker fairness. Farms that follow ROC protocols become biodiverse ecosystems, with organically rich soil that absorbs water, does not erode over time and produces safe, nutritious food.

 

You’re likely aware of the importance of our gut health and the microbes that help digest our food, synthesize our vitamins and compounds, regulate our immune system and influence our behavior and mood. The gut microbiome, critical for fighting off disease, and the soil microbiome, which enables plant growth, are both vital to maintaining all life on Earth. Our feature article explores how these two communities of microorganisms are connected and describes how researchers are studying the interplay between them.

 

While an ROC designation for all farms is the ideal goal, you don’t need to be certified to create a biodiverse ecosystem in your own yard. What you can do is see the article “Easy Steps to Sustainable Landscaping” inside this issue, from Campisi Property Service, LLC.

 

Our feature article also discusses the health value of forest bathing and being outdoors. For forest bathing opportunities, connect with Wild Spirit Paths, LLC, listed in the Community Resource Guide, and watch the video series in our Online Exclusives, provided by the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation, sharing the reasons outdoor recreation is good for you.

 

Getting outdoors and dipping your hands in the soil are great ways to feel good, live simply and laugh more.