Back to Nature, Back to Health
In recent years, there has been a growing movement emphasising the importance of reconnecting with nature for improved health and well-being. This movement encourages practices such as foraging, homegrown food cultivation, green bathing, and the consumption of organic foods. While these practices may have initially been associated with alternative lifestyles, scientific research has increasingly recognised their potential benefits. Here we take a look:
Foraging for Health:
Foraging, the act of gathering wild foods, has been practiced for thousands of years and is rooted in our ancestral history. Research suggests that foraging can provide various health benefits. A study published in the journal "Food Chemistry" found that wild edible plants are often richer in essential nutrients and antioxidants than their cultivated counterparts. Foraging can also promote physical activity, exposure to natural environments, and a sense of connection to nature, all of which contribute to improved mental well-being.
In addition to all of those added benefits of wild foods, spending time gathering them outdoors allows you to spend time in nature which has been proven to reduce stress and boost your immune system!
Homegrown Food and Health:
Growing one's food at home has gained popularity in recent years, driven by concerns over food quality, sustainability, and a desire for a closer relationship with the food we consume. Multiple studies have highlighted the health advantages of homegrown produce. Revealing that homegrown fruits and vegetables are typically higher in key nutrients such as vitamins C and E, and they contain fewer pesticide residues.
The current commercial agricultural system operates on the assumption that food should have a specific appearance and genetic makeup to withstand long-distance transportation and have a long shelf life. However, the focus on aesthetics and durability often neglects the nutritional value of the produce. In reality, true health and nutrient-rich food are derived from plants cultivated in fertile soils teeming with beneficial microorganisms that actively contribute to the production of delicious and nutritious fruits and vegetables.
By growing your own garden, you gain the opportunity to take charge of your soil's health. You can enrich it with organic sources such as compost, minerals, nutrients, and biochar, all aimed at nurturing the biological life within the soil. This, in turn, supports and nourishes your plants, ensuring they receive the maximum nutrition possible.
Additionally, engaging in gardening activities has been associated with increased physical activity, stress reduction, and improved overall mental health.
Green Bathing and Well-being:
Green bathing, or spending time in nature-rich environments, has been shown to positively influence our well-being. Numerous studies have demonstrated the stress-reducing and mood-enhancing effects of spending time in green spaces. For example, a study published in the "International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health" found that forest bathing, specifically, was associated with reduced levels of stress hormones, improved immune function, and enhanced mood. These benefits are attributed to the phytoncides released by trees, which have a positive impact on our physiological and psychological state.
Organic Foods for Optimal Nutrition:
The demand for organic foods, produced without synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), has surged in recent years. Research comparing organic and conventionally grown foods indicates that organic options may offer some nutritional advantages. A comprehensive review published in the "British Journal of Nutrition" reported that organic crops contain higher levels of certain nutrients, including vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. Moreover, organic farming practices promote soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability, contributing to the overall environmental well-being.
Scientific research provides compelling evidence that embracing practices such as foraging, homegrown food cultivation, green bathing, and the consumption of organic foods can have significant benefits for our health and well-being. From the nutrient-rich properties of wild edibles to the stress-reducing effects of spending time in nature, these practices offer a holistic approach to wellness. By reconnecting with nature and adopting sustainable food practices, we can nourish our bodies and minds while promoting environmental sustainability.
Our superfood juices are outdoor grown on our farm in organic soil, flash frozen and never powdered- to bring you the best that nature has to offer. To order yours simply visit our shop today.
