What is Biodynamics?
In 1924, philosopher and scientist Rudolf Steiner presented a series of lectures that laid the foundation for Biodynamic Agriculture as it is practiced today. At the core of these lectures is the understanding that the Earth is a complex living system. Unlike many of the scientists of the 19th century who proposed mechanistic explanations of natural phenomena, Steiner took a holistic view, acknowledging the energetic and spiritual dimensions of the earth as well.
While Steiner’s agriculture lectures are detailed and wide-ranging, they are also practical, equipping farmers with a toolkit of four main principles: 1. Using preparations to enliven the soil and the farm ecosystem, 2. Treating the farm as a living organism, 3. Observing cosmic rhythms and influences in our everyday work, and 4. Developing a spiritual connection to the land. It is through these practices that we develop farms that are ethical, sustainable, and pulsing with life.
We encourage you to take the time to read more about each of these principles below and incorporate them into your own farm or home garden.
Part 1: Healthy Soil, Healthy Spirit
Biodynamic Preparations are foundational to building soil health on the farm. They stimulate microorganism activity, facilitate nutrient uptake by plants, and support a healthy “immune system” of the plant, which discourages pests. These preparations enliven the soil, the food we grow, and the people who eat it.
Part 2: Nurturing the Farm Organism
The farm itself is a unique living organism best treated as a closed system. As Rudolf Steiner notes, “Whatever you need for agricultural production, you should try to possess it within the farm itself. A thoroughly healthy farm should be able to produce within itself all that it needs.”
Part 3: Tuning to the Cosmos
To many, the Biodynamic Calendar appears mysterious or magical. In this article, we demystify this astronomically-based resource that guides our planting, sowing, cultivation, and harvesting.
Part 4: The Spiritual Farmer
While a scientific understanding of nature guides much of our work as farmers, the energetic or spiritual dimension must not be overlooked. Indeed, our spiritual connection to the land is our most valuable tool.