In the heart of Asturias, amidst the lush green fields and rolling hills, I’ve witnessed a profound connection between the health of our soil and the well-being of women.
It’s a connection that has been largely overlooked, a forgotten story waiting to be told.
For centuries, women have been intimately tied to the land, nurturing and tending to the earth as they nurtured their families.
The soil has provided sustenance, nourishment, and a sense of belonging.
Yet, in our modern world, the abuse and degradation of our soil have far-reaching consequences, particularly for women’s health.
The constant neglect, convenience, and toxicity of industrial agriculture have stripped our soil of its vitality.
Pesticides, toxic chemicals, and the loss of biodiversity have created a barren landscape, unable to sustain life in its fullest expression.
But we are all connected
The health of our soil directly impacts the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe.
And as women, we are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of soil degradation.
Hormone disruptors found in pesticides and other contaminants can interfere with our reproductive health
leading to fertility issues, menstrual irregularities, and other health problems.
The lack of nutrient-dense food produced on degraded soil can contribute to nutritional deficiencies and chronic diseases.
It’s time to reclaim our connection to the land
And restore the health of our soil. We can start by embracing regenerative agriculture, a farming practice that focuses on improving soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience.
Here are some practical steps we can take:
- Start a small garden: Growing your own food, even on a small scale, can help you connect with the land and reduce your reliance on industrial agriculture. Even in your apartment ( search on YouTube).
- Support local farmers: Choose to buy organic and locally sourced produce whenever possible.
- Compost: Composting food scraps and yard waste can enrich your soil and reduce waste.
- Reduce pesticide use: Explore natural pest control methods to minimize your exposure to harmful chemicals. Especially when you start small.
- Join a community garden: Connect with like-minded individuals and learn from experienced gardeners.
By taking these steps, we can not only improve the health of our soil but also nourish our bodies, minds, and souls.
Regenerative gardening is more than just a farming practice; it’s a way of life that promotes sustainability, community, and well-being.
Let’s reclaim our connection to the land and create a healthier, more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.
Sources:
- Mnif W, Hassine AI, Bouaziz A, Bartegi A, Thomas O, Roig B. Effect of endocrine disruptor pesticides: a review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2011 Jun;8(6):2265-303. doi: 10.3390/ijerph8062265. Epub 2011 Jun 17. PMID: 21776230; PMCID: PMC3138025.
- https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/endocrine-active-substances
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0yn74At4ks