Organic
Webster defines organic as free from chemical additives; simple, basic, and in harmony with nature. In my constant attempt to live more simply, basic, and in harmony with nature (my spiritual practice), I have been trying to eat more organic. The Mayo Clinic distinguishes between conventional and organic food using the following chart.
| Conventional farmers | Organic farmers |
|---|---|
| Apply chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth. | Apply natural fertilizers, such as manure or compost, to feed soil and plants. |
| Spray insecticides to reduce pests and disease. | Use beneficial insects and birds, mating disruption or traps to reduce pests and disease. |
| Use chemical herbicides to manage weeds. | Rotate crops, till, hand weed or mulch to manage weeds. |
| Give animals antibiotics, growth hormones and medications to prevent disease and spur growth. | Give animals organic feed and allow them access to the outdoors. Use preventive measures — such as rotational grazing, a balanced diet and clean housing — to help minimize disease. |
Eating organically is not only healthier for you, but it is also better for the environment. Studies have shown that organic farming methods are better for the environment in the following ways:
- They use fifty percent less energy than conventional farming method
- They reduces the odds of pesticides and toxins getting into our drinking water by eliminating groundwater pollution with pesticides and toxins.
- They promotes richer soil which combats erosion
It never really occurred to me before that everything I was eating for the past thirty-seven years was full of toxins (negative energy). The chemicals are not only located on the outside of the fruit or vegetable, but some studies show that they can seep into the food itself and can be related to headaches, birth defects, and even cancer. If the prices were equal, which foods would you choose?
Conventional farming methods use chemical fertilizers because it is easier and more cost effective, at least that is what they say. However, there is evidence to the contrary; we can grow our food organically and have it be just as easy and cost effective. So why aren’t we? We now have the option to buy organic food, although at a higher price. More and more people are starting to demand that their food be chemical free and in harmony with nature. The more need there is for organically grown food, the more the prices will come down. In the meantime, we have to pay more for the HEALTHIER food; it makes no sense to me.
To take this practice of mine a step further, and for the same reasons mentioned earlier, I have also been slowly but surely phasing out everyday products that contain toxic chemicals, from my make-up, shampoo and conditioner to my dishwashing soap, potting soil, and all purpose cleaner. Eating organically and using everyday organic products goes hand in hand with being responsible for the energy I put out there in the universe. I don’t want to take in or be around negative energy in my life and that includes the products that I use and the food that I eat.
If you are interested, the following are some links that may help you eat healthier, protect the environment, and do your part to positively change the world.
