Did you know it takes a century to form a mere inch of topsoil making it a precious resource we must protect? The health of our soil directly impacts the health of the food on our plates. As the foundation of agriculture, soil plays an irreplaceable role in growing the crops that nourish us. Rich, nutrient-dense soil produces fruits, vegetables, and grains packed with the vitamins and minerals our bodies need. Unfortunately, modern agricultural practices, such as the overuse of chemical fertilisers and monocropping, have depleted soil health globally, reducing the nutritional value of our food.
This World Soil Day, understand the connection between soil and nutrition to help you prioritise your overall wellbeing. This principle is at the heart of our holistic approach at Dharana at Shillim, a luxury wellbeing retreat located in the Sahyadris Mountains. We recognise that caring for the soil is essential not only for sustainable farming but also for fostering holistic wellbeing.
Dharana’s Commitment to Preserving Soil Health
In the lush Western Ghats, Dharana takes active steps to preserve and restore soil health through environmentally conscious practices. Additionally, the yoga retreat works with the Shillim Institute, a NGO focused on conservation and sustainable development in the Shillim Forest.
Here are significant ways we protect this vital resource:
- Drip Irrigation
Water scarcity is one of the biggest challenges for sustainable agriculture. Dharana at Shillim implements drip irrigation systems in our organic farms, which deliver water directly to plant roots. This method minimises water wastage, prevents soil erosion, and ensures crops receive the right hydration for optimal growth.
2 . Seasonal Farming and No Pesticides
Seasonal farming allows the land to rest and rejuvenate between planting cycles, preserving soil nutrients naturally. At the health retreat, we grow crops that thrive in their natural seasons, without resorting to harmful pesticides or chemical fertilisers. This not only protects the soil but also yields produce that is fresher, tastier, and more nutritious.
3. Forest Preservation and Slash-and-Burn Prevention
The Shillim Forest surrounding the yoga retreat, is a haven of biodiversity. We prevent harmful practices like slash-and-burn farming that deplete soil fertility and we advocate for agroforestry techniques that maintain a balance between agriculture and nature. We protect the wide variety of trees whose roots help hold the soil together and transfer nutrients to ensure long-term soil health.
4. Stone Bunds & and Trenches
To combat soil erosion and conserve water, we have implemented effective measures such as stone bunds and trenches. These structures, including gully plugs and stone lines, play a crucial role in controlling water flow, trapping sediments, and enhancing soil fertility. By slowing down water runoff, these structures reduce the risk of flash floods and promote water infiltration, recharging groundwater levels.
‘Remember, when we care for the earth, the earth takes care of us.’
As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our relationship with food and make sustainable choices for the year ahead. Our approach to nourishment is rooted in respect for the earth and a deep understanding of nutrition. Your gut is affected by the soil in which your vegetables grow.
The culinary team at Dharana works towards providing you with the freshest, healthiest ingredients to support optimal gut health.
- Seasonal and Sustainable Diets A seasonal diet means consuming foods that are harvested at their peak, ensuring optimal flavour and nutrition. The Ayurvedic retreat promotes sustainable eating practices that reduce your environmental footprint while enhancing your wellbeing.
- Earth-to-Table Philosophy With ingredients sourced from our organic farms, every meal is created with fresh, nutrient-rich, chemical-free produce that supports vitality and balance.
- The 4 Kingdoms of Nourishment Our food philosophy incorporates the four kingdoms—plant, animal, fungi, and bacterial—to ensure a balanced approach to nutrition. This includes fruits, vegetables, protein-packed foods, probiotic-rich dishes, and even umami-rich mushrooms and truffles for culinary diversity.
- Culinary Studio Experiences Learning to cook healthy, delicious meals is an invaluable skill. Dharana’s Culinary Studio offers interactive cooking classes where guests can explore the art of preparing balanced, organic and seasonal dishes. These sessions guide you in following the Dharana approach even after your healing stay.
As you step into the new year, consider making soil-conscious eating a priority. By aligning your diet with Dharana’s approach to sustainability and nutrition, you’ll be contributing to a healthier planet while replenishing your body with nutrient-rich foods. Begin your Journey to Conscious Being by calling us at +91124-4344344, or book your stay here!