As kids, many of us were told to play outside and get our hands dirty. And as it turns out, that advice was spot-on. Working within a healthy soil with our hands or bare feet can have a great impact on our health and happiness, thanks to the diverse community of microbes living within the soil.
One of the most interesting and beneficial groups of microbes found in healthy soil are actinomycetes. These filamentous bacteria have a distinct earthy aroma that many of us associate with healthy soil. In addition to their pleasing scent, actinomycetes play an important role in breaking down organic matter and cycling nutrients. They are also responsible for producing a number of compounds that have medicinal properties, including antibiotics and anticancer agents.
But actinomycetes are just one of the many players in nature’s microbial symphony. A healthy soil is teeming with life, from bacteria and fungi to protozoa and nematodes. And each of these organisms plays a unique role in maintaining soil health and supporting plant growth.
Working in healthy soil can also improve our health and well-being. When we work with soil, we get grounded both physically and emotionally. The physical act of touching soil has been shown to increase levels of endorphins, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. In addition, exposure to the diverse community of microbes in soil has been linked to improved immune function and a reduced risk of allergies and asthma.
The aromas of the plants themselves also play a role in our health and happiness. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by plants have been shown to have a number of beneficial effects on human health, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving cognitive function and memory. And when we work with plants, we are exposed to these compounds in a way that is both therapeutic and enjoyable.
So how can we tap into the benefits of healthy soil and its microbial community? One way is through the use of products like Nature’s Brew. This living, breathing brew is teeming with beneficial microbes that can help to build healthy soil and support plant growth. By incorporating Nature’s Brew into our gardening practices, we can create a thriving ecosystem that benefits both plants and people.
In conclusion, healthy soil is more than just dirt – it’s a living, breathing ecosystem that has a profound impact on our health and happiness. By working with nature’s microbial symphony and using products like Nature’s Brew, we can unlock the secrets of healthy soil and create a thriving garden that supports both our physical and emotional well-being.
