In The Spring, At The End Of The Day, You Should Smell Like Dirt

Margaret Atwood is not only a great writer about botanical themes, but she also highlights the need for ecological preservation and sustainability. She knew the weight of these words when she came up with this quote, but I would add that you should interact with your garden all year long.

There is an undeniable benefit that comes from playing with dirt, not only as a child but as an adult. Research at Bristol University discovered that certain bacteria in soil can act as natural antidepressants, offering a potential alternative to pharmaceutical treatments like Prozac. The bacteria in question, Mycobacterium vaccae, have been shown to stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation. When inhaled or ingested through soil, Mycobacterium vaccae can trigger a positive immune response and activate areas of the brain linked to emotional regulation (incredible). This discovery has opened new doors for exploring how the microbes we encounter in nature might help combat depression and improve mental health. As research continues, M. vaccae may become a key component in developing natural therapies for those struggling with mood disorders. 

Which better way to help regulate mood, sleep, digestion, and appetite than to get your hands dirty? I wish I had known this when my kids were toddlers; I would have encouraged them to play outside a lot more. Any natural trigger to produce serotonin should always be a regular practice, and this is why it is paramount for all of us to interact with plants, especially edible ones. 

You can find fulfilment in gardening, particularly in the rain; you can feel at ease and alive! I don’t suggest being outside when it's raining cats and dogs, but when it's moderate, just to delve into the fantastic petrichor. Coined in 1964 by Australian scientists Isabel Joy Bear and Richard Thomas, who came up with the name of petrichor by combining the Greek words for stone (petra) and the blood of the gods (ichor). It represents the scent released from soil and rocks when moisture hits them, often including compounds like geosmin (produced by Streptomyces) and plant oils. 

Petrichor can hit the brain in such a positive way that it can also be an inspirational, creative scent, at least for the great Jordi Roca. He came up with "The Rainy Forest" (Bosque Lluvioso), an avant-garde dessert at the three-Michelin-starred El Celler de Can Roca. It was designed by him to evoke childhood nostalgia through sensory experience. It features edible, distilled forest soil, mushroom-flavoured "rain" from a suspended cloud, pine honey ice cream, and carob, capturing the aroma of a forest floor. I have not had the pleasure of tasting this Greek God-like divinity, but combining it with pine honey makes it a must-try before you die! I had learned about Jordi Roca’s brilliant mind (and nose) through my son, who was an amazing pastry chef before becoming a bee-saviour, and he got me to watch on tv how Jordi’s out-of-this-world invention came. Most importantly, I completely related to his need to create something so representative. It felt like when you go to a museum, and you find artwork that takes you to your happy place. 

I have the fondest memories of playing with dirt while growing up in Guatemala. They were so fulfilling to me that I would naively grab the "fever worm" (sometimes also referred to as "burning caterpillar" or "chinahuate") and  “bathe them” in muddy water.  How did I survive? I have no idea. It seems their venom can cause a systemic reaction that includes fever or chills, but I don’t remember being rushed to the ER. I do recall having swollen, burning fingers, but it was totally worth it!

The core message we are trying to convey is that everybody needs soil and plants in their life, and this is why we came up with the idea of designing kid-friendly gardens. You don’t need to have a great space to build one, believe me, we could do wonders for you as long as you are willing to try! Your children will be eternally grateful, and it will be what awakens and teaches them to become the best versions of themselves, which will matter the most. 

Don't have a garden? Go to a park, sit or lie on the grass! I will brighten up your day.

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