The Basics of Biodynamics

A flow form mimics the turbulence of a creek in geometrical ways to bond nutrients into water at Filigreen Farm in California.

This model began over 100 years ago in Europe, based on the anthroposophic, spiritual science put forth by Rudolph Steiner.

At the heart of those who practice this method is the belief in human imagination working with the elements and cosmic forces to produce food that is imbued with a life-force critical for health in food and for all life in the soil.

Most Biodynamics operations are in Europe, but it has grown to areas in Australia, India, China, and South America. In the US, the northeast and northwest seem to have the most interest in Biodynamics.

Steiner spoke in 1924 to farmers in Germany, addressing their observations that newly introduced chemical fertilizers were creating problems in their fields.

Biodynamics is this: the earth is a living, breathing organism. It is made up of bedrock containing silica, and this silica is a crystal that receives inputs from the cosmos. This energy goes into the earth as an inhalation during winter and exhalation during summer. It is a subtle phenomenon to witness, but it can be observed in the soil.

Making use of these inward/outward forces, the farmer is asked to participate with their imagination using a meditative practice to create homeopathic soil amendments made from manure, silica, and particular herbs.