It is that wonderful time of the year again—Farmers Markets in Indiana are opening all over! A simple visit to your local market (or a market nearby) can do so much to support your health and well-being. Buying and enjoying fresh organic produce, herbs and spices, might do more good to support your overall wellness from a nutritional perspective than you can imagine. As an added bonus, your visit supports the health and wellness of our Indiana environment. Dollars spent at the market often support ideals such as improving soil health so that plants can naturally and richly thrive without chemicals, horticultural practices, the preservation of local economies, and the health and connection of your local community. You’ll likely hear/see local musicians and performers, say hello to your neighbors, learn about what is “in season” in your region, and enjoy seeing so many of the children, adults and elders of your community, all of which might nourish your spirit. You may get inspired to purchase some garden starts and grown some of your own food at home, or a “mushroom log” to nuture for the coming months so that it can nuture you back nutritionally with fresh shiitakes. You might decide to join a local CSA which could help you to increase your intake of fruits, vegetables and more every week, or purchase some plants to help make an “edible landscape” at home after talking to the farmer selling berry bushes and persimmon trees. You may have the opportunity to try some local honey and nourish your mind by learn a little bit about bee keeping, or see photos of your neighbor tapping maple trees for syrup as you taste the results for yourself. You’ll likely feel refreshed after walking outdoors for an hour and making a little bit of your own personal vitamin D supply using our local Indiana rays of sunshine. Overall, it is a simple, yet profoundly healthy thing to do.
Google “Indiana Farmers Markets” to find one nearby, and enjoy the season!