By Alina Bradford* Mud baths may seem like some exotic spa treatment thought up by the elite, but they are actually an ancient practice. Today, many people worldwide still use mud-bathing, called pelotherapy, as a therapeutic, cosmetic, and medicinal remedy. Research and studies have found many beneficial uses for this rapidly-renewable substance in the form of baths, wraps, and other treatments. Mud Use Through the Ages As children, we splashed in puddles and made mud pies. At some point, a sports coach may have told you to “rub some dirt on it” when you got hurt. It seems that humans are naturally drawn to mud. For centuries, people around the world have used mud as a medicinal and beauty remedy. Mud acts as a natural exfoliator and means to draw toxins out of the body, to increase blood flow to certain areas of the body, and to relax muscles. Mesopotamians used clay to treat wounds as far back as 2500 BCE, and Cleopatra is said to have used Dead Sea mud wraps. The Wappo tribe of Northern California has used volcanic mud to treat bug stings and sunburns. Even the Bible includes a story of Jesus healing a blind man’s eyes with mud. Not All Muds Are The Same While it is easy to write off mud treatments as nonsense, there is real science behind the practice. Mud isn’t just mud. Muds used for beauty or health treatments are typically peloids, or natural muds. These are not just dirt and water mixed together. They consist of minerals, organic matter, gases, clay, and microorganisms. This complex soup of ingredients is unique to how the mud is made and where it was made. There are three main types of peloids: Sapropelic muds are formed in saltwater and are rich in colloidal iron hydrosulfide. Mineral and vegeto-mineral muds are found by springs. Peat muds are found in swamps and are created by the decomposition of plants. Dead Sea Mud Still Shines Just as Cleopatra surmised, Dead Sea mud, in particular, seems to have both cosmetic and healing properties. It contains high concentrations of minerals such as magnesium and can hold heat for a long period of time. It has been found to be helpful in healing wounds, reducing skin inflammation, treating joint pain, stimulating blood circulation, enhancing lymphatic flow, and in cleansing the skin. Dead Sea mud helps heal wounds, treat joint pain, stimulate circulation, cleanse the skin, and more. It is not just Dead Sea mud that is good for treating what ails you. It turns out that different types of peloids have a variety of applications that are beneficial for humans. However, because mud from diverse regions have varying ingredients, they will naturally work differently. No matter the type of mud, it seems that heat may be the key to its efficacy. Most peloids hold heat for long periods of time. This long-lasting heat can be soothing to those with aches and pains in their joints and muscles. Heat makes peloids ideal for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. In one clinical study, mud packs were found to be beneficial for patients with knee osteoarthritis. The heat of mud baths could keep your heart healthy, too. A study found that those that partake in hot baths have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. While the study focused on water bathing, it isn’t too far of a stretch to think that maybe hot mud baths can have the same benefits. Mud Baths Have Their Risks Since the ingredients in the mud itself can vary, the side effects can vary, too. Various minerals and abrasive elements may irritate sensitive skin. In mud baths, the warmth of the mud can cause dehydration and may cause health problems for those with low blood pressure and angina. It is also important to be aware that peloids can contain contaminants, including metals. In most cases, however, the concentration is not detrimental to one’s health. Manufactured Mud Might Be the Future Sources for peloids are limited. If used in large quantities, the mud can run out. The good news, though, is that mud is renewable. If left without human interaction, healing muds replenish quite quickly. While bathing directly in the mud source doesn’t tend to harm the fauna and animals of the nearby area, removing the mud to create products for sale elsewhere may have a long-lasting effect. Going forward, local and federal governments will need to find ways to balance harvesting restrictions without impeding the monetary gains that locals reap from this resource. Humans must also protect the planet at large to protect its mud. A massive source of therapeutic mud, the Dead Sea, is dying due to the effects of extreme heat in the area. It is currently shrinking by 3 to 5 feet per year. Can peloids be replicated in a lab? It seems so. An experiment in 2004 found that peloids could be made artificially. This may mean that natural sources won’t need to be sourced in nature to reap the full benefits of mud, saving natural resources and ecosystems. *Alina Bradford has been a published writer for more than two decades and has contributed her insights to SafeWise, CBS, MTV, Life Science, and many others.

By Alina Bradford* Equine-assisted therapy (EAT), also called horse therapy, has been around for centuries. Recently, though, it has become increasingly popular worldwide. This type of therapy goes far beyond just riding horses. It includes several variants, such as hippotherapy that treats occupational, physical, and speech ailments, and equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) that treats mental disorders. Let’s take a look at the science behind equine-assisted therapy and its benefits. The History of Equine-assisted Therapy While some may think of equine-assisted therapy as New Age medicine, somewhere between 460 and 377 B.C. Hippocrates wrote about the physical benefits of horses. In 1898, Florence Nightingale wrote of companion animals—those that bring health benefits to humans and invalids. Fast-forward to the 1960s when therapeutic riding centers began opening throughout Europe, Canada, and the United States. During this time horse therapy became more accepted in countries around the world, including Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Today, therapy through interaction with horses is widely accepted and used for a variety of issues. Types of Equine-Assisted Services Equine-assisted therapy is a blanket term that covers a wide range of mental, physical, occupational, and speech therapies that center around horses. Equine-assisted therapy encompasses riding horses, petting or caring for horses, or being in an environment with horses. One well-established equine-assisted service (EAS) has the unlikely name of hippotherapy. The American Hippotherapy Association, Inc. (AHA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with the goal of educating the medical field about the therapeutic benefits of horses and incorporating equine-assisted therapy with treatments provided by licensed health care providers. AHA describes hippotherapy as “the purposeful manipulation of equine movement as a therapy tool to engage sensory, neuromotor and cognitive systems to promote functional outcomes.” Therapeutic driving Therapeutic driving, another popular form of equine-assisted therapy, involves driving a horse carriage or buggy as an alternative to riding a horse. Using a carriage provides a therapeutic experience with horses for those unable to ride due to balance issues, weight, or other reasons. Participants experience a range of movements and sensorimotor experiences and learn such things as harnessing and driving and safety issues. Equine-assisted learning Equine-assisted learning (EAL), according to the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International, provides an opportunity for participants to learn “trust, respect, honesty and communication” through working with a horse. The fact that horses use nonverbal communication allows participants to understand how this mode of communication impacts others. Horses also have a good sense of their surroundings and teach the same skill to humans. Equine-assisted psychotherapy Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) involves collaboration between a licensed therapist, horses, and a horse specialist to treat patients in an experiential manner similar to that of other established therapies, such as play therapy and art therapy. According to the Equine Education Foundation, horses are masters “at reading body language, intent, and emotion” and their “complete and honest feedback” makes EAP “so powerful.” During EAP sessions, the primary feedback comes from the horse, not from the therapist. Enya Carter sums up her childhood experiences with equine-assisted therapy as follows: "Although I haven’t ridden horses for years, the impact of equine-assisted therapy has stayed with me. Horseback riding gave me freedom and independence that I couldn’t have on the ground. As a young child with cerebral palsy, I frequently struggled to keep up with my peers. Any time my classmates and I played a team sport in P.E., I felt that there was no point in me being on the team at all. But horseback riding changed that. When my horse and I set off at a trot around the barn ring, I could go faster than any of my friends did on their bikes. When I rode horses, I could participate in competitions and even win prizes. For the little kid who felt useless in P.E., that was huge. I also made friends in my horseback riding lesson—not with the people, but with the horses. I was a kid who daydreamed often and found kinship with a chestnut horse named Woody, who would randomly stop walking and stare out the window. For disabled kids who face so much judgment from their peers, horses are perfect friends. Horses only care that you feed them and treat them well. There are also the physical benefits of horseback riding like improving one’s posture and balance. But in my opinion, the most important benefits come from the freedom and confidence disabled kids get when we ride horses—especially in a world that isn’t built for us." The Science of Equine-Assisted Therapy While anyone can talk for hours about the emotional and physical benefits of owning a horse, what they say may not seem scientifically sound. But, on the contrary, research has shown that horse therapy can improve a person’s well-being, muscle spasticity, self-esteem, balance, and much more. According to PATH International, the rhythmic motion that horseback riding provides is the key to its many therapeutic benefits. The rhythm is much like the human gait, and it can improve flexibility, balance and muscle strength in riders that have limited mobility. "The rhythmic motion that horseback riding provides is the key to its many therapeutic benefits." Equine-assisted therapy has many mental benefits, too. Interacting with animals has been found to release chemicals in the brain, such as oxytocin, that can lead to stress and pain relief, happiness, relaxation, and other welcomed mental states. Medical research shows “improving psychological health for veterans among many other improved outcomes.” It seems that almost anyone, no matter the issue, can reap benefits from equine-assisted therapy. Here are just a few of the other things EAT may help with: Physical impairments after a stroke or spinal cord injury Depression and anxiety Physical and emotional challenges of Down syndrome, Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, and Cerebral Palsy PTSD Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Brain injuries Speech problems Trust issues Addiction How Available Is Horse Therapy? While it may seem like healing with horses would be relegated to farms and ranches, it is widely available in more urban settings. Stables often offer horse therapy sessions around large metropolitan areas; the typical age to begin horse-assisted therapies in the US is seven years old. Some researchers caution that evidence in favor of equine therapy for mental health conditions is inconclusive, and it should not entirely replace traditional therapy. The Future of Equine-Assisted Therapy At this time, there are about 4,800 certified instructors and 881 therapeutic riding centers globally. As research progresses, medical professionals become more informed, and horse therapy becomes more normalized, equine-assisted therapy could become a go-to treatment for a wide variety of issues in the future. *Alina Bradford has been a published writer for more than two decades and has contributed her insights to SafeWise, CBS, MTV, Life Science, and many others.

One of Earth’s Countless Regional Treasures Waiting to Be Discovered By Alina Bradford* A fruit that tastes like chocolate? That may sound like wishful thinking, but there’s a real fruit that fulfills the sweet tooth. Called the black sapote (diospyros nigra), this tropical fruit is often eaten raw or used in decadent desserts. Not only does it taste good, it’s also packed with nutrition. Here’s the scoop on this fantastical fruit. Where Does the Black Sapote Grow? Sapote is indigenous to Mexico and Central America, where it was cultivated by the Aztecs and other indigenous people. It was later spread to other areas of the world. Now, the black sapote fruit tree grows in damp tropical regions of North America, Latin America, the Philippines, Moluccas Islands, and Sulawesi Island. Black sapote is a relative of the persimmon, a common tree in Asia, North America, and Europe. Large black sapote trees can produce hundreds of pounds of fruit per year. There are various varieties of black sapote that vary slightly in size and amount of seeds. Some varieties include Merida (Reineke), Bernicker, Mossman, Cocktail, Maher, Ricks Late, and Superb. What Does the Black Sapote Look Like? The black sapote isn’t really black. When young, the fruit is a bright green with orangy pulp. As the black sapote matures, it becomes very soft and turns a dark olive green or a chocolatey brown. It might look like it’s completely rotten, but it’s perfectly ripe at this point. Black sapote is also called the chocolate pudding fruit and for a good reason. When the fruit is sliced in half, it looks like a bowl of pudding with long seeds in the center. What Does Black Sapote Taste Like? The taste of the black sapote isn’t exactly how it looks, though. It’s creamy, but its texture isn't quite like a real pudding. The pulp is almost like a cross between a pudding and a jelly. The flavor varies by taste. Some people say it tastes like chocolate. Others say it tastes more like caramel or a sweet squash. Most agree it isn’t overwhelmingly sweet. Black sapote tastes best when ripe and fresh from the tree; it dries out quickly once peeled and stored in a cool place but will keep for several weeks at room temperature—assuming it isn’t eaten all at once! Black sapote doesn’t need much prep time. It is eaten by scooping out the insides with a spoon and eating it plain. Some people like to squirt the fruit with lemon juice. In Mexico, people mix orange juice with the pulp and serve it as a dessert. Black Sapote Recipes Of course, there are many recipes for this versatile fruit. It can be used to make pies, ice cream, cakes, shakes, and much more. Here are two recipes to make at home. Black Sapote Pudding Ingredients: 1 soft ripe sapote 2-3 diced dates 3 or 4 tbs cocoa powder 1 banana, cut into chunks 1 tbsp honey 8 tbsp coconut milk Blend all of the ingredients until smooth and serve in a bowl. Top with chopped nuts, grated coconut, or whipped cream. Black Sapote Fruit Smoothie Ingredients: 2 black sapote fruits (skinned and de-seeded) 1 cup water 1 cup strawberries or strawberries and blueberries 2 cups ice cubes 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional) Dash of ground cinnamon 3 tablespoons brown sugar Dash of ground nutmeg (optional) Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend well. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This makes a nice refreshing drink on cool days, but it is also delicious served warm as a dessert! Black Sapote Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits Besides tasting good, black sapote is nutritious. It packs fiber, vitamins, and minerals and it is low-calorie. One black sapote fruit provides around 10% of the daily value for iron. It’s also a good source of both vitamin C, calcium, and vitamin A, and contains a moderate amount of potassium. These nutrients all come together to make the black sapote a rich source of antioxidants, which are proven to help prevent cancer. Black sapotes are also a good source of protein, with about two grams of protein per fruit. The majority of the black sapote’s nutritional value comes from its high fiber content, coming in at a whopping fifteen grams of fiber. All of this nutritional goodness comes with only five grams of sugar and around 100 calories. That’s not all. Its non-edible parts, the peel and seeds, are currently being researched to make into potential medicines because of their antioxidant and antibacterial properties. How Can I Purchase Black Sapote? Grocery stores don’t carry the black sapote because it doesn’t have a very long shelf life. The best bet to try this fruit is to travel to an area where it is grown and buy it from a local fruit stand or farmer’s market. Some online exotic fruit sellers will mail unripe black sapote fruit. It is also possible to grow it at home in some climates. However, black sapotes are tropical fruit, so they don’t grow very well in temperate regions. Eating black sapote is a great way to try something new and enjoy a popular food from a tropical region. While it may be a little difficult to find, the uniqueness of this fruit makes the struggle well worth it. *Alina Bradford is a safety and security expert that has contributed to CBS, MTV, USA Today, Reader’s Digest, and more. She is currently the editorial lead at SafeWise.com. Sources: University of Florida, “Black Sapote Growing in the Florida Home Landscape.” Accessed September 16, 2022. MyFitnessPal, “Black Sapote Raw.” Accessed September 16, 2022. Elhadi M. Yahia, Fabiola Gutierrez-Orozco, Claudia Arvizu-de Leon, Food Research International, Volume 44, Issue 7, “Phytochemical and antioxidant characterization of the fruit of black sapote (Diospyros digyna Jacq.).” Accessed September 16, 2022.

By Alice Kachere* The Earth & I asked Ms. Alice Kachere, a Malawi smallholder farmer and global women’s advocate, to inform our readers of the challenges and successes of smallholder women farmers in Malawi, who are striving to farm successfully without the security of property rights, adequate training, or advanced farming technology. Alice’s Story I am a smallholder farmer from Kalumbu, Lilongwe, Malawi, with three children and three grandchildren. I grew up in a farming family. When my husband died in 2003, I began to farm on my own. But because only the husband can own land, I lost the right to farm our land when he died and I had to appeal for permission to stay on farming there. I worked tirelessly in the fields, sweating year after year to grow and harvest the cash crops of tobacco and maize. But because I was incurring great losses in the process, I received little to no profits. This changed in 2006 when I joined the National Smallholder Farmers’ Association of Malawi (NASFAM). Through my association with NASFAM, I joined the bandwagon of legume and livestock farmers—dairy and legumes offer improved nutrition and market prices—which has improved my livelihood tremendously. In 2007, I was selected as a board member of NASFAM and became a chairperson of NASFAM in 2009. In 2012, I was selected as a member of the World Farmers’ Organization’s Women’s committee, and today I am a chairperson of the Rural Women’s Assembly, Malawi chapter. Prior to joining NASFAM, I was farming, but not as a business. It was subsistence farming, like that of many of our rural dwellers. As a single woman, I had to depend on steady family labor as well as seasonal, casual laborers to help with land preparation, weeding and harvesting. Our basic tool is a hand hoe. And I couldn’t farm just for the sake of it; I had to earn a living from it to pay school fees for my children and care for my elderly mother when she was alive. I saw I needed a different approach to farming to offer a more meaningful benefit to my life, and NASFAM has shown me how to move into agribusiness, largely focusing on producing and marketing. When I look back now, sometimes I don’t believe it is me who has accomplished all that I have done since striking out on my own. The growth of my business gives me the drive to keep on going. Most importantly, I have acquired skills and developed a reasonable network to push my business forward. The Challenges of Farming in Malawi Farming in Malawi is not easy. I still rely on the hand hoe to farm. I don’t have appropriate farming equipment, such as tractors. Even when I do all that I can to follow good agricultural practices, farming as a business suffers from the effects of climate change and pests like armyworms. There is also a lack of a conducive business environment, limited access to financial services (interest rates are high), lack of ownership and control of land, no crop insurance, and farm gate prices (crop prices if purchased at the farm) that don’t consider the cost of production. Malawi’s farming tools (left). Armyworm on a soybean plant (right). ©Swathi Sridharan, Wikipedia Commons. ©JCesar/Pixabay As a rural farmer, my dream is to go into “value addition” or changing products to a more valuable state. I want to be able to both produce and process crops. I just need access to machinery and investment capital—loans that are not punitive, but serve as a catalyst to move me higher up the value chain. Farming as a Woman in Malawi Farming is a source of livelihood for many families in Malawi, especially in rural areas of the country. Today, women in Malawi contribute a great deal to the agricultural sector, primarily through crop and livestock farming. In fact, the contribution of women farmers exceeds 70% of Malawi’s farming sector. However, due to high illiteracy levels, rural farming initiatives are hampered by lack of knowledge on modern farming techniques and marketing skills as well as poor infrastructure and inadequate resources. In Malawi’s culture, land resources are generally owned by males, thus depriving women of adequate land and farming opportunities. Many men earn money doing “piece work” outside the agriculture sector, so they do not spend too much time on farms. This can create frustrating problems when the men are asked to make crucial decisions about their family’s farming activities. Women farmers in Malawi further lack exposure to modern farming technologies and such things as processing and packaging. Training opportunities, such as in manure making and storage and marketing for farm produce, are minimal. Due to women farmers’ high poverty levels, they focus on short-term farming for quick realization of income and food security. But this strategy offers very little opportunity compared to pursuing agricultural investments for the long term. Advancements for Women Farmers in Malawi Despite the challenges, Malawi women farmers can now form cooperatives and village level groups that offer a helping hand to meet the labor requirements of different farming processes and seasonal demands. This development has afforded them soft loan opportunities through Village Savings and Loan initiatives. Malawi has also established favorable policies with the aim of promoting agricultural activities. The existence of controls in agricultural markets has eliminated middlemen who brought unfavorable price fluctuations for farm produce. Malawi has generally favorable climatic conditions that enable farmers to cultivate and harvest crops through rain-fed and irrigation-based farming. Most parts of Malawi have a good topography, soil suitable for small-scale farming, and adequate and suitable water reservoirs. Because of these natural advantages and financing and policy advancements, women in Malawi can now harvest food crops, ranging from cereals to vegetables, as well as cash crops like tobacco and cotton. Like farming anywhere, high quality inputs—such as seed, fertilizer, energy, pest controls, equipment and livestock feed—into farming activities are crucial for Malawi’s women farmers to achieve better yields. In addition, proper livestock management is crucial for them to ensure livestock health and increased earnings. Biodiversity and Farm Yield Women farmers have put biodiversity conservation at the heart of their operations through converting land to forests and adding composite manures to enrich and conserve the soil. They have planted cereals, legumes, tubers and herbs as soil nutrients. Moreover, new “tree plantations” have helped to reduce soil degradation and improve water conservation, which assists in irrigation farming. Through all of these things, Malawi has seen a tremendous boost in yield resulting in higher produce proceeds in the markets. Impact of COVID-19 Agriculture is the main contributor to Malawi’s Gross Domestic Product and the pandemic battered the nation’s GDP by shrinking global markets and lowering levels of agricultural exports. Women farmers in Malawi were adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in many ways. Curfews and lockdowns closed markets for their farm produce. Restrictions on Village Savings and Loan meetings negatively affected the progress of farm-financing and knowledge-sharing at the village level. Also, most Malawian agribusinesses closed their operations, leading to scarce availability of farm inputs and exorbitant market prices. COVID further led to high levels of unemployment in the major cities. This forced many people to relocate to rural areas, causing a scramble for farmlands. Now, Malawi is making efforts to recover from the pandemic. COVID-19 preventive measures are being followed in the agriculture sector. Recently, women farmer cooperatives have formed with emerging agricultural governance structures to link our women farmers to the rest of the world. The social cash transfer program has boosted farming-financing, leading to more sustainable farming, more affordable farm inputs, labor costs and harvest management. Women Farmer Cooperatives As I mentioned, women farmers in Malawi have formed cooperatives that permit them to sell their produce in bulk quantities and obtain soft loans from Malawi’s state-owned institution, the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF). The joining together of rural women farmers to sell in bulk has strengthened their bargaining power. The introduction of modern communication media has further seen Malawi women farmers accessing international markets for produce like soya beans, pigeon peas, and sunflower. These crops are now being exported to India, China, and Zimbabwe. The government’s 2016 introduction of the Buy Malawian Strategy campaign has bolstered the market for local farmers’ produce. When local industries are encouraged to procure raw materials locally, women farmers have greater opportunities to sell their produce more easily. Next Steps Malawi’s hard-working women farmers can spur improvements in agricultural production and marketing sustainability. In the meantime, these women farmers need to: Explore improved seed varieties and new farming technologies that require less human labor Adopt modern agricultural produce storage systems and other business activities to get their products to market Learn about capacity-building with local women farmer associations Learn more about crop biodiversity, nutrition values, and medicinal crops, such as Moringa, that can be used to improve health and combat disease Finally, Malawi’s women farmers could benefit from value addition, such as having access to owning machinery that can help them in processing their produce. Retail products such as cooking oil, butter, soap, flour, tomato sauce and many more food items could be manufactured locally. The residues from the factories could create a source of livestock feeds—and directly help in local job creation and sustainable local farming. *Alice Kachere is a smallholder farmer and mother of three in Malawi. She holds a Junior Certificate of Education, was trained as a women’s advocate by The Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN), studied Crop Life at Egerton University, organized by The Eastern and Southern Africa small-scale Farmers Forum (ESAFF) and received leadership training organized by the Southern African Organization of Agricultural Unions (SACAU). Selected as a board Chair of the National Smallholder Farmers’ Association of Malawi (NASFAM) for 2 years, she was also selected as an Ambassador for women’s food climate justice, became a member of the World Farmers Organization’s Women’s Committee and is now a chairperson of Rural Women’s Assembly, Malawi chapter. Alice is a global advocate in the fight for women to own land and commercialize agriculture.

By Adrian Lopes* The charismatic Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris) is a species native to South Asia’s wilderness. With close to 3,000 tigers, India is home to more than seventy percent of the world’s tiger population. Even so, this species is listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Traditional Asian medicinal practices fuel the black-market demand for tiger body parts, and the unregulated conversion of land for agriculture eats into tiger habitats. Such threats to species preservation have raised concerns about effective management strategies by the tiger range states. One of these strategies includes an engagement with indigenous folk who continue to reside within tiger habitats. A curious urban dweller may ask the question: what can one learn from the ancient wisdom of peoples closely connected to the natural world? “I came across an article about a small reserve in southern India that witnessed a rapid rise in its population of tigers; moreover, the article described the fascinating beliefs and practices of the neighboring native Soliga tribe that successfully coexists with the tigers." A few years ago, Shadi Atallah and I came across an article about a small reserve, the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple reserve (BRT) in southern India that witnessed a rapid rise in its population of tigers; moreover, the article described the fascinating beliefs and practices of the neighboring native Soliga tribe that successfully coexists with the tigers. The article further spoke of how the Soliga revere and protect the tigers in accordance with their customary spiritual beliefs. Their animism—belief in spiritual power within all things, embedded within the broader Hinduism—entails the belief that a Hindu deity rides the sacred tiger of the forest, protecting them from misfortune[1]. The Soliga protect and venerate the tiger in return. The example of the Soliga tribe bolsters the claim expressed in the article that, "tribal peoples are the best conservationists and guardians of the natural world." We surveyed the conservation economics literature, yet found no formal theoretical or empirical assessment regarding the effect of spiritual practices on endangered species preservation. Intrigued yet concerned by the lack of study of this subject, we decided to dig deeper. India’s flagship tiger conservation program, “Project Tiger,” began in the 1970s and has achieved remarkable successes in raising tigers in designated protected areas[2]. While there is reason to laud these successes, there remains the frequently overlooked interrelationship between tribal customs and wild animals and plants that has existed since time immemorial. The protected area strategy typically designates a large area exclusively as an endangered species habitat; this designation consequently leads to the expulsion of native peoples whose livelihoods are either little understood or considered to be of little value. Courts have entitled indigenous communities to their ancestral lands within tiger reserves through the 2006 Indian Forest Rights Act[3]. However, there have been instances of such land claims being rejected by the Supreme Court of India when sufficient proof of land possession for at least the last three generations is lacking[4]. This vulnerability creates an air of uncertainty in securing forestland titles. The sacred interrelationships between an aboriginal population and its natural habitat have been fostered over generations. An approach to conservation that ignores these belief-based interrelationships runs the risk of undervaluing their positive effects on preserving an endangered species. Several indigenous people around the world have spiritual practices closely connected with the land they live on and their natural environs. In northwest India, the Rabari tribe reveres leopards in accordance with traditional beliefs, and thus avoids the retaliatory killing of leopards when their livestock are taken. In other parts of India, sacred forest groves are venerated by local communities in the belief that their gods reside within such groves. In Borneo, the Dayak tribe performs rituals during agricultural cycles that protect forests in line with their spiritual beliefs. Forests are a way to connect spiritually with their gods, and without forests there can be no farming and livelihoods. These practices unite the Dayak against commercial monoculture and mining interests, thereby sustaining their culture and forests. An interesting facet of such indigenous practices is that they are not carried out with the explicit purpose of preserving biodiversity. Rather these practices are performed in accordance with traditional beliefs, with sustainability being an inadvertent consequence. An approach to conservation that ignores belief-based interrelationships runs the risk of undervaluing their positive effects on preserving an endangered species. The study of spiritual and cultural practices of indigenous peoples has gained much-needed momentum. But because such practices are not easily quantifiable, they are often circumvented by scientific studies[5]. Moreover, the application of valuation methods to measure parameters within indigenous settings runs the risk of neglecting values relevant to a tribe[6]. Valuation using economics requires a careful identification of the cultural aspects to be studied. For instance, one such study used a survey technique to assess the value of traditional agricultural practices and the associated environmental services of the Native American Hopi tribe; valuation of such traditional activities are gauged by their contribution to the perpetuation of the Hopi culture and way of life. So why do culture and spirituality exceed other economic incentives in preserving biodiversity or a specific species? In our study, Shadi and I designed a numerical simulation that modeled the economic impact of choices facing the Soliga tribe’s elders regarding tiger preservation. The elders or “managers” weighed the short-term gains of harvesting the tiger to sell its body parts against the spiritual stock of maintaining tigers in perpetuity. We conducted multiple simulations under a variety of policy scenarios. Each simulation demonstrated that by explicitly including the aspect of spirituality in the elders’ choice set, it was economically more profitable to preserve the tiger stock in perpetuity. Significantly, this finding was contingent on the granting of legally binding guarantees of secure forestland rights to the Soliga, thus indicating the importance of unambiguity under the Forest Rights Act for India’s indigenous folk. In contrast to the positive contribution conferred when the value of spirituality was included, under the exclusionary conservation approach of designated protected areas, such spirituality was not ascribed any value within the simulations. Success stories such as that of the Soliga’s reverence and preservation of an endangered species, the tiger, serve as an inspiration on our quest for wisdom on effective strategies for conservation and sustainability. A concern that many academics grapple with is the relevance of their work to a policymaker. Will our study inspire new approaches to species protection? While we are certainly hopeful that it will, we must remain cautiously optimistic. From an academic perspective, in conducting future analyses in this area, care must be taken to precisely identify the specific aspect that is to be studied. Spirituality and culture can take many different forms among the diversity of indigenous peoples living off the land. We considered how the Soliga revere the tiger in accordance with their beliefs, and the effect that such practices potentially have on the tiger population within the BRT. Our results depend on the assumptions and economic theory behind our model. While one can generalize the broader lessons for guiding conservation strategies, the particulars of spirituality for the Soliga and the pathways for preserving the tiger population remain specific to the BRT ecosystem. Much can be learned from the spiritual and cultural customs of indigenous peoples. Those who reside in technologically advanced and industrialized societies, particularly those residing in urban environments, may not fully comprehend native practices of venerating the land and its wild fauna and flora. Care should be taken on the part of environmental policy makers not to discount the value of indigenous practices, or the novel solutions such practices may reveal. The precipitous decline in wildlife over the past few decades is serious cause for concern, because the welfare and biological diversity of the natural world directly impact the welfare and perpetuity of humanity. Success stories such as that of the Soliga’s reverence and preservation of an endangered species, the tiger, serve as an inspiration on our quest for wisdom on effective strategies for conservation and sustainability. This article is based on a paper by Adrian Lopes and Shadi Atallah, which can be found at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10640-020-00416-1 Footnotes Mamatha, L. D’Mello, and G. Gowda, "A Study on The Situations of Soliga Tribes in Karnataka," vol. Quality in Higher Education Challenges & Opportunities, ed: SIMS Pandeshwar & Srinivas University Mukka, Karnataka India, 2018, pp. 254-261. Y. Jhala, Q. Qureshi, and A. Nayak, "Status of tigers, co-predators and prey in India," National Tiger Conservation Authority, Government of India, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2019. L. Bhullar, "The Indian Forest Rights Act 2006: A Critical Appraisal," Law, Environment and Development Journal, vol. 4, no. 1, p. 394, 2008. S. Sengar, "More Than 10 Lakh Forest Dwellers To Be Homeless After Supreme Court Orders Eviction," in India Times, ed, 2019. J. Burger, "Valuation of environmental quality and eco-cultural attributes in Northwestern Idaho: Native Americans are more concerned than Caucasians," Environmental Research, vol. 111, no. 1, pp. 136–142, 2011, doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2010.09.013. W. Adamowicz et al., "In search of forest resource values of indigenous peoples: Are nonmarket valuation techniques applicable?" Society & Natural Resources, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 51–66, 1998, doi: 10.1080/08941929809381061. *Adrian Lopes is an Assistant Professor of Economics at the American University of Sharjah, UAE. He has a PhD in Applied Economics from Cornell University, USA. Adrian has a keen interest in the economics of natural resources and environmental sustainability.

Uruguay Meeting Starts Talks on International Treaty The first session of an international effort to control and eliminate plastic pollution on land and sea was held in Uruguay in late November. According to a news brief by Reuters, 2,000 representatives from 160 nations met in Punta del Este for the first International Negotiating Committee (INC-1), which is organized under the UN Environment Programme. The goal of INC-1 was to start the dialogue on a legally binding, international agreement on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. A second meeting, INC-2, is planned for May 2023, and the goal for completion of a document is the end of 2024. Among the negotiators were representatives from the US and Saudi Arabia. Both are home to some of the world’s top plastic and petrochemical companies. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged a crackdown on both plastic pollution and production. "I call on countries to look beyond waste and turn off the tap on plastic," he said via Twitter. UN member nations had agreed in March to develop a treaty to deal with plastic waste. Negotiations are expected to address several knotty issues, such as limits on plastic production, phaseouts of some types of plastic, and whether nations will be required to act or left to their best judgments. The INC-1 had a group of forty nations, including Ghana, Uruguay, and EU members, that called themselves the High Ambition Coalition. Their goal is a treaty with mandatory measures, such as curbs on plastics production. "Without a common international regulatory framework, we will not be able to address the global and increasing challenge of plastic pollution," said coalition member Switzerland in a position statement. The Swiss statement contrasted with that of the US, which prefers country-driven pledges. "The United States is committed to working with other governments and stakeholders throughout the INC process to develop an ambitious, innovative and country-driven global agreement," said a US State Department spokesperson. The US favors an agreement similar to the Paris climate agreement, in which countries set their own strategies and goals. Saudi Arabia seeks a pact “based on national circumstances” that is focused on plastic litter. As expected, industry and NGO views of the negotiations differed. "Although in the minority, there are some powerful opponents of global rules and standards, which risk potentially weakening obligations on countries to take action,” said World Wide Fund for Nature’s Eirik Lindebjerg, who leads the conservation organization’s global plastics policy. "At the end of the day, we hope the committee comes to the same conclusion we do, which is that increasing recycling offers the best solution to reducing plastic waste," said Matt Seaholm, president and CEO of the Plastics Industry Association. Despite such differences, Reuters cited observers who see growing agreement regarding the problem of plastic pollution. "Plastics are not anymore being seen as just a marine litter issue. People are discussing plastic as a material made of chemicals. … There has been a narrative shift,” said Vito Buonsante, policy adviser for the International Pollutants Elimination Network. Source: Reuters, “Countries split on plastics treaty focus as U.N. [global plastics treaty] talks close” by Valerie Volcovici

Oxford University Professor Emeritus Wade Allison has warned in a paper, published by a nonprofit group, that his analysis of wind power generation data shows serious inefficiency in this alternative energy resource. “The generation of electricity by wind tells a disappointing story,” Prof. Allison writes in a 2023 paper for The Global Warming Policy Foundation. Inefficiency is not the only problem with wind power, adds Prof. Allison, who teaches mathematics and physics at Oxford, is a researcher for The European Organization for Nuclear Research, known as CERN, and supports nuclear energy. “Vast ‘farms’ that monopolize the natural environment are built to the detriment of other creatures,” he says. According to Prof. Allison, a global push to reduce and eliminate fossil fuel emissions has led to an “instinctive reaction” to turn to renewables whose sources—originating from the Sun—are “intermittent” and “weak.” He says “The political enthusiasm and the investor hype are not supported by the evidence, even for offshore wind.” Prof. Allison provides the following example: “If the wind speed is 10 meters per second (about 20 mph) the power is 600 watts per square meter at 100% efficiency. That means to deliver the same power as Hinkley Point C [nuclear power station in the UK] (3200 million watts) by wind would require 5.5 million square meters of turbine swept area—that should be quite unacceptable to those who care about birds and to other environmentalists.” Moreover, “if the wind drops to half speed, the power available drops by a factor of 8. Almost worse, if the wind speed doubles, the power delivered goes up 8 times, and as a result the turbine has to be turned off for its own protection,” he writes. There is also a problem with grid storage battery technology that is used to store the power generated by wind, the professor adds. “It can provide for laptops and other portable applications, even car batteries at up to 75 kWh, but larger batteries have problems with safety and mineral shortages.” “Batteries 20 million times larger are never going to be available,” he argues, and “storage batteries will never make good the failure of offshore wind farms” when the wind speed drops for a week. “The wind can drop for longer periods than that.” Source: https://www.thegwpf.org/content/uploads/2023/03/Allison-Wind-energy.pdf

By Cassie Journigan* Oceans play a vital role in the health and well-being of planet Earth. They support much more than the life within them. They provide life and livelihood to many who live on or by the sea. They also absorb excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. As such, these carbon sinks absorb more carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere than they release. So that should be a good thing, right? The atmospheric concentration of CO2 has increased by almost 48% since the late 1700s. Some of it returns to the Earth, where it's stored in forests and oceans. These increased CO2 levels are wreaking havoc in the planet's largest water bodies by causing ocean acidification. What is Ocean Acidification? Ocean acidification refers to the lowering of pH levels in the world’s seas. While ocean acidification can occur naturally, the current increased acidification is believed to be largely due to human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels. Here's how ocean acidification works: Once CO2 dissolves in water, it undergoes chemical changes. As it dissolves, it combines with water, creating carbonic acid. The carbonic acid further breaks down, creating hydrogen and bicarbonate ions. When too few carbonate ions remain, an imbalance occurs, lowering the water's pH and increasing its acidity. Carbon Dioxide in Water Carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere through various avenues, including exhalation by humans and animals, the burning of fossil fuels, and deforestation. There is a natural cycle of oxygen and CO2, with humans and animals breathing in oxygen and exhaling CO2, while plants take in CO2 and use it to grow, giving off oxygen in the process. 55.8 million years ago, the Earth's temperature increased by about 9°F (5°C) attributed to increased levels of CO2. Oceans hold much of the CO2 generated; in fact, they take in roughly 30% of what was released into the atmosphere. Scientists, studying rock and soil samples, discovered that nearly 56 million years ago, the Earth's temperature increased by about 9°F. Scientists attribute this to increased levels of CO2 and speculate that it may have been due to increased volcanic eruptions, extensive wildfires, or dissolution of ocean sediments. Measuring Ocean Acidification Liquids are measured on a pH scale of 0 to 14 based on the concentration of hydrogen ions. Pure water has a pH of 7, or neutral. Anything below 7 is acidic, and anything higher is alkaline. Today's average ocean water pH stands at 8.1. Before the Industrial Revolution, when humans began using fossil fuels for manufacturing, the level was 8.2. And while that change may not look like much, the pH scale is measured logarithmically. So, for one pH unit lowered, acidity increases by a factor of 10. Put another way, today’s oceans are about 25% more acidic than in the late 1700s. Perils of Acidic Oceans Ocean acidification is sometimes referred to as “osteoporosis of the sea.” Animals, like oysters and corals, use calcium and carbonate to build shells and skeletons. Four types of carbon—dissolved CO2, carbonate, carbonic acid, and bicarbonate—should exist in a balance in ocean water. But the ideal ratio is no longer maintained as CO2 increases. The carbonate ion concentration lessens, creating bicarbonate due to the higher level of CO2. With ocean acidification, smaller amounts of carbonate ions become available, meaning there is less calcium carbonate to construct or preserve hard shells and skeletons. Clams, corals, mussels, and oysters, for example, hold a vital role in the food chain, but when the pH drops, these animals' shells and skeletons are weakened. Fish may also be affected by ocean acidification—researchers studying sardine-like grunion off the California coast found their larvae suffered an increased mortality rate. More studies on fish are underway. Harvard postdoctoral researcher Valentina Di Santo studied the problem in skates in laboratory conditions. She found that they seemed to grow faster while their wings' cartilage skeleton grew heavier. With a heavier skeleton, it takes more energy to swim long distances, which could affect migration. Addressing Ocean Acidification While the most effective way to reduce ocean acidification may be to limit the use of fossil fuels, there are other solutions. For instance, when ocean acidification caused a drastic impact on the West Coast's shellfish industry during the 2000s, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), along with the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS), developed an early warning system for approaching acidic seawater. This system allows hatcheries to schedule fish production for times when water quality is favorable. Hatcheries can schedule fish production when water quality is favorable. Another localized solution might come from aquatic plant colonies like the giant kelp forests off the California coastline because they store CO2 and release oxygen. And scientists have seen a decrease in CO2 in the surface waters around the kelp. In the Great Barrier Reef off Australia, scientists injected alkalinity into the reef in a process called artificial ocean alkalinization (AOA) to counter the effect of about four years of increased ocean acidification. Raising Awareness About Ocean Acidification The most effective way to prevent further acidification of the oceans is to limit the release of CO2 into the atmosphere. This can be accomplished by reducing the use of fossil fuels. Another way to help, as NOAA advocates, is to raise awareness of the problem. They suggest participating in habitat restoration efforts or talking about ocean acidification to people whose businesses could be impacted by its harmful effects. While the buildup of CO2 in the oceans is creating a slight decrease in the water's pH levels, it is already impacting sea life and people who depend on the oceans for their primary food and income source. And the problem is expected to increase: In environmental scientist and marine ecologist Dr. Jane Lubchenco's words, ocean acidification is “climate change's equally evil twin.” It is impacting life on this planet in significant ways, but through timely, sustained effort, the oceans can thrive. *Cassie Journigan is a writer who lives in the north-central region of Florida in the United States. She focuses on issues related to sustainability. She is passionate about numerous topics, including the Earth’s changing climate, pollution, social justice, and cross-cultural communications.

Rebalancing Humanity’s Relationship with Self and the Natural World By Gregory Henschel* The practice of yoga—as in, “I am going to yoga”—refers to classes where people collectively do postures to strengthen the body by resisting one’s own weight and stretching to keep the body limber. Clearly, many people have benefitted from group yoga classes taught in many fitness centers. But what is a yogic “lifestyle”? The expression suggests something more than visiting the gym. In its lifestyle manifestation, yoga means a broad range of mental and physical disciplines to increase a person’s vitality and bring the mind to a state of equipoise or balance. Aside from postures, a yogic lifestyle involves a deeper penetration of many of the following practices, which affect many aspects of life, from without and within. Breath Control It is said that “breath controls the mind, not the other way around.” To enhance concentration, to modify mood, and expand a feeling of calm, breathing exercises can be quite beneficial. While yogis evolved systems of breath control ages ago, much has been confirmed by science. A 2019 article in the Scientific American magazine explains, “slow, deep breathing increases the activity of the vagus nerve,” a part of parasympathetic nervous system that controls, and also measures, the activity of many internal organs. “When the vagus nerve is stimulated, calmness pervades the body. The heart rate slows and becomes regular, blood pressure decreases, [and] muscles relax,” the article says. Diet Dietary fads abound, but yogic diets are based on time-honored principles. In general, yoga emphasizes vegetarian food. Fresh vegetables and fruits are believed to have the most “life force” or prana. Further, meat is considered to weigh down the mind and make it harder to sit still for meditation. Beyond this basic guidance, there are many schools: lacto-vegetarian, vegan, lacto-ovo, etc. But what is right for an individual? Many factors should be considered, as no one diet will work for everyone. This is where the environment comes into play. A journal article in Nature Food states that greenhouse gas emissions, which are deemed responsible for global warming, are twice as intensive for animal-based foods than for plant-based foods. The article, and many like it, show that there is large variance between animal-based foods, with beef causing much greater greenhouse gas emissions than, say, poultry. This is also part of the yogic lifestyle— being conscious of the effects of one’s personal actions on others. And what about stimulants, recreational drugs, and alcohol? Those are basically out, although some serious practitioners do take moderate amounts of tea or coffee. Yoga Postures This is a popular topic, and there are many schools. Some hold classes in rooms that are quite hot. Others have friendly animals, such as goats, walking around while the class is in progress. While many people have received great benefit from yoga postures, as with any form of exercise, it is possible to get hurt. Amidst the diversity of yoga styles, it is important to find a qualified teacher. One way to help make sure that yoga teachers and schools have met learning standards and are committed to ethical standards is to check with Yoga Alliance. This nonprofit professional association representing the yoga community has over 7,000 Registered Yoga Schools (RYS) and more than 100,000 Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT) as of April 2020. Anyone can search for individual teachers and schools on their website. Mindfulness and Meditation The diversity of meditation teachers and styles of practice is even more wide-ranging than yoga schools. Meditation can mean everything from just watching the river flow to intensive concentration techniques practiced in austere monastery-like environments. Most people have heard of Transcendental Meditation Technique, Vipassana, and other meditation schools. Some are accompanied by philosophical or religious teachings, while others are not. In the search for a good school, students should look at the teachers and community around them. Are they happy, healthy, and open to questions? Or, do they seem more interested in getting paid than doing service? Service There is more that lies beyond the common manifestation of yoga in contemporary culture. There is the meaning of yoga, which is “unity.” Yoga, akin to the English word “yoke,” means the uniting of the small “s” self and the inner capital “S” Self. This fullest expression of yoga centers one’s life not only on personal health and balance of the body-mind system, but also on the inner connection to one’s place in the cosmos, to a deep unification with all existence, the Oneness of all Being. Practitioners of this yoga seek to live with a subtle type of morality while focusing the mind’s eye on the inner spirit in all things. From this core, an outward yoga can emanate for rebalancing the economy, improving social justice, and rebalancing humanity’s shared relationship to the natural world. It is the consummation of the yogic lifestyle to bring balance to the body, the mind, to the inner spirit and from there, a sustainable harmony between oneself and others. This all-around “unity” is, in final form, sought through service. This is not the same as retail service, as in “billions of burgers served!” Instead, this is a striving for the good and happiness of all through thoughts, words, and actions. This kind of yoga—a continuous flow of Self-awareness and expression of kindness—integrates meditation with outward acts. When all this works together, the “lifestyle” becomes something even greater: a mission. It becomes one’s mission in life. *Gregory Henschel is also known as Acharya Govinda. Acharya means “one who teaches by example.” He has been a dedicated meditator and practitioner of yoga for 50 years and has been teaching classes since the mid-1970s. He lives in Alexandria, Virginia, with his wife Francey and their parrot Scarlett.

United Nations member states have agreed on a treaty text for management of the two-thirds of Earth’s oceans that lie outside national jurisdictions. These vast areas, known as the “high seas,” refer to the waters outside the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) that now extend 200 nautical miles (370km) from a nation’s coasts, Reuters said in a March 30, 2023 article. Nations currently can limit human activity in EEZ waters and sea beds. The new international treaty—known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction treaty (BBNJ)—is twenty years in the making. It aims “to protect biodiversity by establishing large-scale marine protected areas and regulating marine research for scientific and commercial development,” says Reuters. Some of the treaty’s goals are to combat ocean pollution and overfishing, as well as regulate the building of infrastructures in the oceans for agriculture, mining, and power plants. While there is limited study of the Earth’s oceans, research warns that marine species are at special risk for extinction due to man-made activities. The Marine Conservation Institute, a member of the High Seas Alliance, says less than 3% of the oceans are presently “fully or highly protected.” It is hoped that the treaty will help the UN achieve its “30x30” goal to protect at least 30% of the planet’s land and water by 2030. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the treaty a “breakthrough” for “global efforts to counter the destructive trends facing ocean health,” and credited Rena Lee, Singapore’s Ambassador for Oceans and Law of the Sea Issues and Special Envoy of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, for her leadership and dedication in taking the lead negotiating position for the “historic” agreement. Sources: https://www.reuters.com/graphics/GLOBAL-ENVIRONMENT/OCEANS/jnvwyjomdvw/ https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/03/1134157

Unexplainable Phenomena Suggest ‘Intelligent Design’ Linking Humans and Nature By Dr. Beverly Rubik* In the quest to understand the origins of the universe, the concept of “super synchronicities”—or multiple experiences of unexplainable coincidences in people’s lives—is gaining interest. Studies are finding that these experiences often bring people into higher states of consciousness that allow them to see the benefits of relationships with each other and with Nature. In 2022, Dr. Gary Schwartz, Professor of Psychology, Medicine, Neurology, Psychiatry and Surgery at the University of Arizona, presented research on fascinating phenomena or “super synchronicities” as among the best evidence of an underlying intelligent design. He defined super synchronicities as patterns of six or more serial coincidences in life that cannot be simply explained. Synchronicity can have a profound effect on one’s sense of connection to Source and nature. It is a notable aspect of Jungian psychology, of a causal connection beyond space and time. Carl Jung wrote in 1973 that synchronicity reveals facets of the unus mundi, the underlying unity of the world. Jung’s viewpoint recovered the meaningful connections between the subjective [non-material] and objective [material] realms. Super synchronicities can be extraordinary experiences. They can evoke meaning, sense of purpose, heightened emotions, and even personal transformation. Those who experience super synchronicities may feel wonder, delight, amazement, greater spiritual connection, and humility before a Divine order and creativity. They may also feel love, joy, and gratitude. Thus, synchronicities can trigger expanded psychospiritual states of consciousness. Such expanded states, including a profound experience of a personal interconnection with the cosmos, could help bootstrap humanity to recover a lost relationship with nature and the environment. Persons in this state frequently experience even more synchronicities, too, which further reinforce their heightened state. In contrast, other people may feel cut off from the greater whole. To them, a synchronicity appears to be a rare and random incident rather than a meaningful aspect of temporal order and creative unfolding of the universe. Such people may be seen as being in a contracted state. When one feels separate from nature, then nature may be seen mainly as resources to be consumed. Pollution of the environment can become rampant. A sense of separation from nature along with a lack of awareness that nature nurtures life, may be at the root of environmental degradation. Frontier science has revealed some new discoveries about emotions that could lead to some helpful technology. Therefore, I would like to briefly mention our work at The Institute for Frontier Science. A subject in one of our experiments, an energy healer, intentionally moved from a neutral state to sending “healing love,” and we then measured almost four times more biophotons near the heart. One of our main projects is research on the human biofield or energy field (Rubik, 2002; 2015; Rubik et al., 2015). We can measure extremely low-level light emissions from the body, also known as biophotons. A subject in one of our experiments, an energy healer, intentionally moved from a neutral state to sending “healing love,” and we then measured almost four times more biophotons near the heart (Rubik and Jabs 2017). In experiments with several human subjects, we found that biophoton emission from the body can change according to intent, emotion, and state of consciousness. The biofield may be seen as a bridge between consciousness and the physical body. Besides biophotons, we are investigating other parts of the biofield. This involves developing novel detectors. We found a coupling between the dynamic emotions experienced over time by a subject and certain physical detectors that were shielded from conventional energies. In other words, the parameters of certain physical systems changed in a predictable way with the human subject’s emotions. Positive and negative emotions, respectively, led to changes in opposite directions of the parameters. It is possible that there is a “subtle energy” associated with emotions. We have a prototype of this detector as part of our “sensor suite,” which also includes conventional environmental and physiological detectors (Jabs and Rubik 2019). Our so-called “subtle energy” detector shows the greatest response on a computer data acquisition system when a human subject experiences positive emotions such as love and joy. [Synchronicities] can uplift people to heightened states of consciousness that can change their relationship with nature and one another. Although this technology needs further development, we foresee applications, including biofeedback, to help people engage more in positive emotions, which are also important for optimal health and well-being. Such technology might help boost the time spent in heightened psychospiritual states and increase emotional intelligence. In today’s world, many people interact more with communication technology and less with real persons or nature. Cultivating love, joy and gratitude counteracts the increasingly robotic shaping of humanity by lifeless computer programs in educational systems and work life. Positive emotions have also been shown to energize water. Consider that water comprises approximately 70% of the human body, and 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered with water. The frontier science of water demonstrates that water plays an active role. Indeed, it is the matrix of life itself. Using the Gas Discharge Visualization (GDV) Camera Pro, a digital Kirlian camera, we measured greater intensity and larger patterns of light emitted from water droplets when human subjects expressed love and sent positive energy to the water samples (Rubik 2011) If people would focus their love on water in the environment, hypothetically, it could have a beneficial impact. With loving kindness and greater awareness that human beings are an intimate part of the cosmos, humanity can choose to live differently—in a nurturing relationship with nature and the environment. Synchronicities bring about a sense of wonder and an expanded vision of reality. They can infuse human life with meaning and love, providing a sense of oneness with Divine Source and with the universe. They can uplift people to heightened states of consciousness that can change their relationship with nature and one another. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin (1959) wrote, “Someday, after mastering the winds, the waves, the tides and gravity, we shall harness for God the energies of love, and then, for a second time in the history of the world, man will have discovered fire.” *Beverly Rubik, Ph.D., is President and Founder, Institute for Frontier Science, Oakland, California, and Adjunct Faculty Member, Integral Health, California Institute for Human Science, Encinitas, California. Editorial Note: Author Title: Second Commentary on “A Vision for Earth’s Future Arising from Frontier Science,” Presentation by Dr. Gary E. Schwartz at the Third International Conference on Science and God (ICSG III), April 2022. References: Jung, C.G. 1973. Synchronicity: An Acausal Connecting Principle. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. Schwartz, G.E. 2022. “A Vision for Earth’s Future Arising from Frontier Science.” Invited presentation, Third International Conference on Science and God (ICSG III), “Environmental Restoration in the Era of Frontier Science.” April 2022. Teilhard de Chardin, P. 1959. The Phenomenon of Man. New York: Harper & Row.

By Julie Peterson* The joy of a delicious meal can be undermined by feeling tired, feeling down, or rushed when mealtime rolls around. But these times are also the best to prepare a fresh and healthy meal, as good food can improve feelings of well-being. As an essential daily activity, eating meals should ideally involve a consistent diet of all-natural, delicious, and nutritious foods. The total experience of mealtime can foster better mental, physical, and spiritual health, inspire love, gratitude, and peace, and raise consciousness through intention and connection. Elevating ‘Mood’ with High-Quality Foods While it is common knowledge that spending time in nature and in positive relationships can elevate “mood” and feelings of well-being, it is also true that eating a “high frequency” meal of healthy, natural, unprocessed food can help do the same. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of foods to choose from that can help elevate one’s “vibes”: Sprouts and microgreens. These tiny germinating plants contain many vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients and will grow on a windowsill. It’s easy to experiment with the textures and flavors in salads, stir fries, sandwiches, as a garnish, or blended into smoothies. For beginners, the simplest sprouts to grow are alfalfa, broccoli, radish, and mung beans, with snow peas, amaranth, wheatgrass, clover, sunflower, and onions great items to grow with more experience. Vegetables. Whether grown at home or sourced from local organic growers, vegetables are powerhouses for both nutrition and raising feelings of well-being. Vegetables—such as broccoli, beetroot, cucumber, Brussels sprouts, artichokes, asparagus, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes—are superb when eaten raw as snacks, in salads, or juiced with other fruits and vegetables. Stir frying or steaming are the healthiest cooking methods; just avoid cooking them until they change color as this reduces their potency. Leafy greens. Spinach, endive, arugula, dandelion, and collard greens are all excellent additions to smoothies, juices, salads, and sandwiches. But kale tops the list as a nutritional powerhouse with powerful antioxidant properties. Fresh berries. Organic strawberries, blueberries, goji berries, and cranberries are delicious examples that can be used in smoothies, salads, or eaten straight up like nature’s candy. Tibetan goji berries and Amazonian acai may only be available in dehydrated or frozen form. Fresh fruits. Papaya, kiwi, peaches, apricots, bananas, pomegranates, dragon fruit, pineapple, mango, and citrus are all beneficial to the body and soul. Look for sun-ripened, organic, non-GMO, locally sourced fruits. They are best stored in a cool, dark area, not in a refrigerator. Fermented foods. Try kimchi, tempeh, sauerkraut, or kombucha. Herbs and spices. Ginger promotes healthy digestion; cumin helps cholesterol and blood sugar; turmeric is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral. Plant-based fats. In reasonable quantities, fats in raw hazelnuts, almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, avocado, coconut, and olives are beneficial. Sweeteners. The least-processed forms of sweeteners include honey, maple syrup, and dates. Less-healthy Choices? Just as some foods may elevate feelings of well-being, others may have an opposite effect. Caffeinated tea or coffee. To maintain high energy levels naturally, try potassium-rich foods like bananas, avocados, and whole eggs instead. In addition, electrolytes can boost energy levels and are readily available in watermelon, pomegranates, and oranges. Preserves and jams. These cooked products are not as potent as the original products. Try mashing actual fruit instead of opening a jar. Animal products. The best choices are likely to be grass-fed beef or bison, wild salmon, or free-range poultry. Eggs should come from pastured poultry. Just as some foods may elevate feelings of well-being, others may have an opposite effect. Highly processed food products. The list of products generally deemed less healthy include those that have a long shelf life, come in a packet, or are ready-to-eat. Some have additives (artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives). Others contain hydrogenated or trans fats, margarine, or lard. ‘Vibes’ From Beyond the Food Itself While the quality of the food plays a huge role in feelings of well-being, there are other factors to consider at mealtimes. Eating is as much about nourishing the soul as it is about feeding the body, so all the following aspects of a meal contribute to “vibes”: “One of the best things you can do to raise your vibe is to develop a healthy relationship with food,” says Cate Ritter, wellness coach and functional nutritionist in Oregon, USA. “Think beneficial thoughts.” Bless food by being grateful; many meal prayers include giving thanks for the bounty. Life coach Tony Robbins said, “You can’t feel fear or anger while feeling gratitude at the same time.” If there are any negative emotions at the table, turn them around by finding gratitude in the food, the table, the people, the plate, or anything immediate. Imagine each bite of a food as nourishing for the body; eat mindfully, being aware of the colors, textures, aromas, and flavors. When one feels present in the moment, the nervous system calms and there is a feeling of greater peace. Have a dedicated space, preferably a table, for meals. “Eating around the table challenges your busy schedule. It takes a stand against feelings of stress and anxiety, and instead, puts your basic needs first and foremost. It’s a time to take a break from your daily responsibilities and focus on taking care of your body, your mind, and your relationships,” according to Chopra.com. It’s impossible to eat mindfully while using technology and multitasking. Phones, computers, TVs, and even books and newspapers can be left out of the dining room. Make the dining room a beautiful place with colors that are calming or rejuvenating, bring in natural lighting or use bright lighting. Use the “good” dishes often, and set the table with intention, even if dining alone. Practitioners of Feng Shui recommend keeping the dining room clean and tidy. They also recommend light from candles as it emits positive energy. A mirror in the dining room can also amplify natural light and give the illusion of more space. Finally, live plants naturally bring high vibes to the room. Fresh, organic, raw fruits and vegetables are great additions to any diet, and the more often they are included in meals, the more desirable they will become, thanks to the natural high and energy that they provide. Spinach Avocado Salad with Berries Recipe by Nora Rusev from Savory Nothings A simple but stunning salad you can whip up in no time! Have it as a side or as a healthy meal, either way it's one you'll come back to again and again. Ingredients For the dressing: 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon honey 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1/8 teaspoon dried garlic powder Salt and pepper For the salad: 2 tablespoons chopped almonds 10 oz bag of baby spinach 1/2 pound strawberries washed, hulled, and sliced 1 cup raspberries washed and gently dried 1 cup blueberries washed and gently dried 1 large sliced avocado Instructions To make the dressing, whisk all ingredients together and set aside. To make the salad, gently toss all salad ingredients in a large bowl with the prepared dressing. Serve immediately. Notes Serves 4 as a side or 2 as a meal. Nutrition Calories: 246kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 67mg | Potassium: 604mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 6665IU | Vitamin C: 64.7mg | Calcium: 103mg | Iron: 2.9mg *Julie Peterson is a freelance journalist based in the Midwest region of the US who has written hundreds of articles on natural approaches to health, environmental issues, and sustainable living.