Hello, my intrepid Intentional Table guests! Today, with our afternoon wine, will be the topic that is near and dear to our hearts here. Biodynamics. What is it, you may ask? Why is it important to this table, Musea, and our lives? All good questions.

Read on, and if you want the DEEP DIVE EXTRA CREDIT, it's at the bottom.⬇︎

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There are two polar views of scientific reality when it comes to the consideration of the active practice of biodynamics. One is the left-brain approach, represented by the Newtonian Analytical view that has dominated science for the last two centuries.

Newton looking pretty snappy…

Left or Right? When referring to the 'left' or 'right' side of the brain, it's not actually about sides, it's about two different 'engines of perception'. One 'side' tends to try to solve by examining the parts in order to make the whole. One 'side' tends to start with wholes and then break that down into parts. So, they are both trying to solve the answer to X, but they go about it in differing ways. Neither is correct nor wrong, just differing approaches.

Goethe has a WAY better coat than Newton…

The 'other' way, or should I say the both/and, by J.W. Goethe, integrates the left and right brain hemispheres, resulting in a direct experience for you, which combines analysis with synthesis. This is the heart of ontology or the observation of 'what is.' You do not really need to understand why it happens or even how, but that it does'!

The solely reductionist and analytical method has resulted in large-scale environmental and cultural change that is unsustainable and compounds the degradation of planetary life. As a consequence, many of today's leading-edge scientists are revisiting Goethe's ideas. New insights offered by quantum physicists reveal paradoxes, not explainable through a Newtonian understanding. A dialogue has emerged between scientists and philosophical thinkers who are also seeking new ways of understanding the world using inferred and contemplative methods. A good example of this process is the regular exchange between senior scientists and the Dalai Lama and his monks.

The illustrations below demonstrate the two views and the combination into a single Whole.

Biodynamics uses and respects Newton's view, seeing it as part of the full view, which also includes the Goethe synthesizing approach.

"Theory" or "Seeory" The Greek root of the word theory means to 'perceive with the eye.' So, my beloved guests, what do you say?

The Newtonian Approach seeks conceptual understanding.

Conclusions about the whole are based on examining the parts, resulting in abstract concepts between the observer and the observed.

The Goethean Approach seeks insight into the archetypal plant.

Conclusions about the whole are based on observing the living plant in rhythmic time and seeing, with the 'mind's eye,' the plant's essential 'beingness.'

Re-thinking how we produce food in times of environmental and global dilemmas.

Biodynamics uses all aspects of knowledge to attain insights, recognizing that all the 'kingdoms' of nature are co-dependent. (I don't like the word kingdom because it's dated patriarchy crap, but it's what we got here, folks…) The result is a:

Holistic Ethical Moralistic attitude and behaviors that match. Nature herself is seen as part of the greater cosmic picture. The idea of 'Beingness' is central to biodynamics. The grower of food (meaning medicine, too) observes and listens attentively to the soil, plants, animals, and conditions. Thus, entering into a dialogue with nature has the potential to become a rich foundation for the evolution of future generations. Working in harmony with nature makes economic and ethical sense. Here at Musea, on our small farm, there is no option. It's how we do. We do not have room for the correct animals, but they are right across the street in the adjacent field.

Does this sound like something you might hear me prattle on about while I am whipping you up some soup? You betcha.

Thanks for reading!

EXTRA CREDIT SECTION

Biodynamic farming is a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach to agriculture, gardening, food, and nutrition. It is based on the principles and practices developed by Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century. This farming method is similar to organic farming but includes various esoteric concepts drawn from Steiner's ideas. Here's a brief outline of the benefits of biodynamic farming practices:

1. **Environmental Sustainability**:

- Enhances soil health through composting, crop rotation, and cover cropping.

- Increases biodiversity by integrating crop cultivation with animal husbandry and wildlife conservation.

- Reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

2. **Enhanced Food Quality**:

- Produces nutritionally dense and flavorful food due to the emphasis on soil health and plant vitality.

- Minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals, benefiting consumer health.

3. **Economic Resilience**:

- Promotes self-sufficiency with on-farm fertility and seed production, reducing input costs.

- Diversifies farm income through various crops and products, improving economic stability.

4. **Social and Ethical Benefits**:

- Encourages community engagement and shared responsibility through cooperative aspects of biodynamic certification.

- Supports animal welfare with humane treatment and integration of livestock into the farm ecosystem.

5. **Holistic Management**:

- Uses an integrative approach to farm planning and management, considering celestial and terrestrial influences on biological cycles.

- Encourages farmers to develop a deep understanding and connection with their land, leading to more mindful and informed farming practices.

Biodynamic farming seeks to sustainably produce food and heal and regenerate the earth, making it a comprehensive approach to addressing today's environmental and social challenges in agriculture.

Also, it just feels like the way the earth asks of me to be with it. My father once told me, "In order to master nature, you must agree to be mastered by it."

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