Common Sense in the Face of COVID-19

with Joel Salatin

Wash your hands. Do social distancing. Are these the only two things we can do to protect our health during this pandemic? Joel Salatin, co-owner of Polyface Farms, author, and speaker, offers ideas about how to strengthen our immune system and our spirit during this time of crisis. He suggests that we cannot rely on health officials or the government to make us well. We must take our health into our own hands.

Among other things, Joel recommends diversifying our microbiome by getting dirty (instead of trying to create a sterile environment), getting restorative sleep, hydrating, and cultivating healthy relationships. This conversation reminds us of the good things that are happening, and the positive choices we can make in the midst of the challenges. COVID-19 (also known as the Coronavirus) threatens the status quo and feels de-stabilizing. But this time can teach us resilience and provide opportunities to build our health and our community’s interdependence.

Notes:

Highlights from the conversation include:

Positive steps that are happening amidst the crisis
Tips for building your microbiome: pet a chicken, walk in pasture, get dirty
What to do besides distancing ourselves and washing our hands
How small assaults to our bodies can be good for us
Joel’s dream of public officials suggesting an initiative to build our immune system
Why our officials may not be emphasizing what we can do for ourselves
Why we prefer to have a “bogeyman” instead of taking responsibility
Steps we can take: stop eating junk food, get more sleep, forgiveness, improving relationships, hydration, and hugs
Why it does us good to get dirty
Nature’s default position is wellness – what we need to look at when things go south
Loneliness destroys our immune system
We’re 1/6^th of a second away from every person on the planet but it’s too far for a hug
The healing power of a long two-minute hug (Zach Bush’s remedy for some sicknesses)
The cost of loneliness vs. the cost of the virus
Why we need to cultivate better relationships and connections
The importance of a larder (pantry) for a season’s food supply
The peace that comes from being prepared
The importance of building community interdependence
Why VA farmers markets are closed & what Polyface is doing to stay in business
Cooking as a way to connect with our sustenance
The importance of nurturing something, like starting a compost bin
Why supporting a local farm is a good idea (even if you’re not that into it)