Our mission is to support human & ecological health by empowering people to steward their bioregions.

About

Healing Ecosystems is a 501c3 non-profit organization which educates people about wild food, environmental stewardship, native plants and interesting uses of invasive plants. We have taught thousands of people about foraging since 2019 through in-person classes, online classes and social media content.

Our Philosophy

The word “healing” comes from the Old English word “haelen”, which means “to make whole”. Humans are meant to be an integral part of ecology. We are defined as a hyper-keystone species, which means, “ [humans] drive complex interaction chains by affecting other keystone actors across different habitats.” (Sciencedirect.com) While many humans use this power to degrade habitat and loot natural resources, traditional peoples have stewarded ecosystems for thousands of years in ways that promote health & biodiversity. As to say, it can be another way. We are designed to serve a crucial ecological niche.

The worldwide health crisis & break down of mental health are a result of many peoples’ disconnection from nature and Creator. Guilt & self-hatred run rampant in this society, because we know our participation in destructive systems leads to the collapse of ecology and compromises the future of our children. Living harmoniously with nature is our birthright, yet we find ourselves born into a culture that covets greed & selfishness above all else.

However, scripture clearly states, “The Earth remains forever” (Ecclesiastes 1:4). This is echoed by other spiritual texts like the Tao Te Ching, which states, “Heaven and Earth last forever” (Chapter 7). But many believe that the Earth would do just fine without humans and perhaps be better off. I wholeheartedly disagree, knowing that we are not created by accident. Psalms 37:11 states, “the meek will possess the Earth and they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.” Meekness refers to the qualities of quietness, gentleness and submission to the higher power. This type of person stands in stark contrast to the current “leaders” of this world. Lastly, we are told in Revelation 11:18, “[God will] bring ruin to those ruining the Earth.” I do not believe these writings are metaphor; they are prophecy. Earth is designed to be a paradise. The proof is all around us in the profound beauty that persists in the simple complexities of nature. The fractures of modern life are mended as we appreciate this beauty & offer praise.

We can aid the healing of ecosystems, making them whole again, by participating in this ecological system that sustains our existence.

 
Meeting cordyceps mushrooms (Cordyceps militaris) in the forests of Asheville, NC.

Meeting cordyceps mushrooms (Cordyceps militaris) in the forests of Asheville, NC.