Can You Actually Get High on Soil? Use Dirt to Elevate Your Mood
--
While pot and psychedelic ‘shrooms get all the hype, organic farmers and gardeners are getting high on something far more humble.
In fact, this natural “happy drug” is microscopic and available to everyone with zero side effects. Its antidepressant effects on the brain are similar to Prozac, but without the risk.
Scientists are uncovering what naturalists and ancient cultures have known for millennia: the Earth makes us happy. We are hardwired to be connected with nature.
While it probably won’t be the solution to all the world’s problems, a closer connection to the soil is a simple, free, and scientifically-proven way to boost serotonin and dopamine levels while lowering stress and improving our quality of life. There is even evidence the smell of soil microbes can make you smarter!
Let’s dig into the details of how soil microbes elevate our mood.
Disclaimer: This is obviously not medical advice. Mental health problems are complex and different for everybody. All sources are linked in the text. Consult with your garden and your own intuition regarding use of soil to improve your mood. Ask your doctor why they aren’t prescribing a healthier diet and time outdoors with nature.
When We are Disconnected from Earth, Our Health Suffers
Our society is dirt-phobic, yet all this hyper-cleanliness has created more health problems than ever before. Only in the last century have humans transitioned to a predominately indoor, synthetic, dirt-free lifestyle. And boy, are we paying for it!
With drug addiction, depression rates and mental health crises at an all time high, one can’t help but wonder: is nature trying to tell us something? The further we move away from our innate connection to the Earth, the sicker and sadder we will become!
Our society’s dependence on mind-altering substances is truly disheartening. 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 12 are on antidepressants, some 14.5 million Americans are alcoholics, and…
