Words Josh O’Rourke. Photography Yossi Nachum.
For millennia, human bonds have formed and been strengthened over the dinner table. The word companion is derived from the Latin words ‘com’ and ‘panis’, meaning ‘together with bread’. In this era of increasing social isolation and segregation from nature, it is more important than ever to make a concerted effort to reaffirm our connections with community and the land. There is no better way to connect with people and the land than through community gardening.
Gardening is a peaceful, beautiful, and rewarding experience that I’ve been fortunate enough to dedicate a large part of my life to.
Much of that focus has been on developing extensive permaculture gardens, and the most joy I’ve had has been when I’ve invited the public to wander my paths and discuss my methods. Over the past year, I have been working on a new project that is more community-centric.
I’ve learned that each person brings a flavour to the project that keeps things interesting. One woman consistently shows up with her two young boys. At first, she was apologetic about the damage they would might cause. But I was able to share the perspective that the work she accomplished while in the garden far surpassed any damage incurred by her rambunctious children.
I have also been able to occupy their attention so that their mother can have a bit of a break from their demands and focus on a task that brings her satisfaction. I have no idea what effect our time in the garden together will have on these impressionable little people, but I hope it will be profound and encourage them to connect the land with their food. I was certainly tickled pink when they showed up unexpectedly one day, and I was told it was what her son wanted to do that day.
Gardening for the gut
Nothing comes close to the health benefits of getting your hands in the dirt. Scientist, educator and doctor Zach Bush emphasises the profound benefits of gardening for the microbiome and overall health. He highlights that exposure to soil and its microorganisms helps diversify and strengthen our microbiome, which is crucial for our immune system and overall wellbeing – great for our young ones.
The benefits I have gained go beyond the work in the garden and delve into my societal wellbeing. I have formed beautiful relationships and had the opportunity to step into a teaching role.
In addition to drop-in visits throughout the week, we host a Saturday garden gathering in which community members may join. We start our meeting with a cup of tea and then get started on a simple task, whatever someone feels like doing based on their energy level. It’s always a positive experience to spend time with people of all ages, giving love to the land and ensuring we have food to share. Occasionally, we’ve interrupted the work to crack open a watermelon and share in the fruits of our labour.
The bonds we form in the garden ensure positive connections throughout our community; sometimes, they lead to community dinners served from the vegetables grown from our efforts. There is a real connective energy that comes from sharing food with your neighbours that started with a seed.
