Picking wines for the next holiday meal? Consider Biodynamic and organic wines. No compromises necessary.
What are Biodynamic Wines?
Rudolph Steiner (founder of Waldorf Schools) began Biodynamic agriculture in 1928 in Europe. Today, Biodynamic viticulture continues to treat the entire farm as an organism seeking balance. Harmony with nature, seasons, pests, organic pest control, even lunar cycles, are all taken into account by producers following the tenets of biodynamic farming. Underlying the methods is the belief that the earth, if cared for properly, will be self-healing, but needs our stewardship to achieve that state. Biodynamic agriculture is based on a holistic and spiritual view of the farm as a self-contained organism.
While some call Biodynamic agriculture “bohemian”, others are drawn to that very aspect. One of the best known biodynamic farmers calls farming itself unnatural. Given that the vines don’t choose to grow together in straight rows, grouped by varietal, in microclimates, you can see his point. Yet, farming has existed almost as long as we have. Perhaps it’s best to simply consider the benefits of returning existing farms to more holistically, healthfully run enterprises.
Demeter Certifies the Vineyards
An international organization called Demeter certifies vineyards as biodynamic in a process that typically takes years to achieve. Currently, there are about 105 Demeter-certified vineyards in the US. Demeter “aids the healing of an ailing earth and the production and availability of the highest-quality healthful food. We provide education about biodynamics and a certification process.”
Certified organic vineyards must meet Demeter’s additional criteria for a period of one year before earning the designation Biodynamic.
Becoming a vegetarian is a life choice that can have many benefits, both to you and the planet. If more people were vegetarians, or at least ate less meat, we could use the land more productively, and cut down on water usage and pesticides, since we wouldn’t need to grow grains for animals to eat. (And don’t forget about the carbon footprint of your cheeseburger…) Even if you are not prepared to become a full on vegetarian, consider the benefits of eating less meat in your diet.
There are many types of vegetarians
Some vegetarians include eggs, dairy products and even fish in their diet (lacto-ovo- vegetarians). Some will eat dairy products (lacto-vegetarians) but not eggs. Yet others do on occasion, like when they are invited out, or at a restaurant (flexitarians). Vegans won’t eat any animal by-products including all diary and egg products. If you’re considering becoming a vegan, talk to your doctor about vitamin supplements and consider taking calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B 12 fortified food or/and vitamin supplements. Most vegetarian diets are healthier than many meat diets so long as diversity and balance are maintained.
If eating high quality food with few pesticides and chemicals is important to you, it may be easier than you’d think to save money on your grocery bill. The organic section of your grocery store isn’t the only place to purchase healthy whole foods; in fact, it may be the most expensive option!
If you’re searching for organic or hormone-free meats, free range eggs, or low to no pesticide produce, you already know how expensive such items can be at traditional grocery stores. It can be a bit intimidating to watch your bill go higher and higher each month, and it may be tempting to switch back to traditionally farmed items. Before you do so, however, consider taking advantage of what your local community has to offer.
It’s true what they say, when you look good, you feel good.
Each morning when you begin your beauty regime, why not commit to using only natural products that wont harm you or the environment.
Better Hair Days
Lets face it, when your hair is clean and styled, you look younger and feel healthier. Gone are the days of natural shampoo’s that leave your hair limp and flyaway, so why not recycle your old bottles of chemical based products, and pick up one of the following natural shampoos.
Dr. Hauschka
Features a line of natural shampoo, conditioner and hair oils. The entire line is formulated with eco-friendly, natural ingredients certified by the BDIH, whose criteria for natural certification are the most stringent in the world.
Sure, one of the hottest movies out right now is The Secret Life of Bees, based on Sue Monk Kidd’s bestselling novel. But what we’re concerned with is not the main character; instead, we’ve taken a liking to the bees that give the movie its moniker.
That’s right we’re talking about the healing powers of bees and that tasty stuff they produce – honey.
Here’s how becoming a member of the hive might improve your health:
Bee Pollen
Unless you are allergic to bee stings, bee pollen’s high B12 and protein properties can boost immunity. Pop a few spoonfuls of wildflower bee pollen in your next smoothie or yogurt, and you’ll be buzzing with energy in no time.
Sure, one of the hottest movies out right now is 
