Your body is a forest and you should treat it as such..
We regard nature as a vital part of our ecosystem and existence. But do you see yourself as part of that same system? Do you see yourself as much an integral cog in this chain as a woodlice scuttling around the undergrowth of a degenerating tree stump?
An Alan Watts statement goes.. We talk about being born ‘into this world’, but is it not wiser to say ‘we are born out of this world. Like a leaf comes from a tree or a flower from a plant?
Maybe the reason that we instinctively know what’s best for our forests, is because they are as much a part of us as the organs in our body. Trees are without doubt an extension of our respiratory system, without them we would cease to exist.
The Forest Ecosystem
Forests are a natural mass of integrated biological systems with complex interdependencies working together in harmony for the benefit of the whole being, the forest itself and the planet.
Mycelium
Trees feed from sunlight and disperse its energy to the smaller saplings who are too shaded to perform photosynthesis adequately. The trees use the network of mycelium in the ground to transfer energy, water, nitrogen, carbon and other minerals which the smaller trees need. This network of mycelium and roots is called the mycorrhizal network, dubbed the ‘Woodwide Web’ 😆 by German forester Peter Wohlleben as it is through the mycelium that trees communicate.
Microbiomes
The ocean has a microbiome, the earth has a microbiome, forests have a microbiome, our skin has a microbiome and so does our gut. Humans have trillions and trillions of microbes living in and on us. Our skin has more microbes per square centimeter than there are people on earth and our gut has a thousand times more! Everything in nature does. All these microbiome systems are related to each other and are part of a larger ecosystem. These are all vital for the planet, our health and vitality.
The human microbiome is so important that it’s like another organ. It is a part of our body that serves necessary functions, just as the skin and kidneys do. Some scientists think that babies who do not have much contact with microbes get more allergies, asthma, eczema, and other health problems. Studies also suggest that the microbiome plays a role in obesity and depression.
Ancient forest cultures intuitively had/have a holistic understanding of their environment, it’s complexity and how to live in harmony with it. They showed their environment the respect it deserved so that it could provide them with a sustainable and abundant home.
The Human Body
Our body is also made up of multiple complex systems that function in balance as a self-sustaining organism. The 11 main systems of the human body are the; integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. And of course, there's also the various microbiomes of the body which make up the human microbiome.
Modern Society
In the same way ‘the powers that be’ in modern society are messing with nature and chopping down forests. We seem happy for them to manipulate us into messing with our human ecosystems, all in the name of capitalist growth and shareholder wealth. We can think of the modern day skincare industry similar to the modern industrial food complex. They have both migrated in the same direction. I think you know where I'm going with this, right!?
To quote from my favourite skincare researcher and journalist Jessica DeFino…
“My skin wants for nothing. It is lavished daily with all the buzziest beauty ingredients: ceramides and peptides, antioxidants and antimicrobials. Exfoliating enzymes, epidermal growth factor, stem cells, and squalene oil. Pre-, pro-, and post-biotics, plus a pore-clearing cleanser that balances my pH level. Collagen, of course, and hydrating humectants: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid. Finally, a face oil—one that’s biocompatible and full of essential fatty acids.
You may scan that list and think: in this economy? But let me assure you, no plastic bottles were squeezed in the making of this skin care routine. I haven’t used an essence or eye cream in years. I don’t need to. You don’t need to. The human body produces all the aforementioned chemicals on its own. It uses them to self-moisturize, self-exfoliate, self-protect, self-heal, and even self-cleanse.”
Check out the full article here
Forests and humans (and other animals) are self-sustaining ecosystems that make up part of an even greater ecosystem. So what can we learn from each other? Thinking about ourselves as a forest and as part of nature can help us understand ourselves better and help us realise how we may take good care of ourselves.
Your Body is a Forest.. Treat it Kindly..
- Don’t treat it with synthetic chemicals
- Don’t over exploit its resources
- Don’t hack away at it’s biodiversity
- Let nature take its course
- Treat it kindly
And with this philosophy in mind, we will continue to develop our product range. Keeping our skincare natural, simple and sustainable. And working with nature's bounty to offer a bit of luxury, self-love and wellbeing routines for your busy lives.