Embracing healing power of nature

Korum Ellis developed the micro-farm system, a sustainable method for growing vegetables and herbs in a confined area, in 2012.

Mr Ellis said the system helped him through a difficult period in his life when he suffered from depression.

“A very big part of my process of changing my mindset was to re-engage with my health and wellness,” he said.

“The actual process of growing was also a part of my healing.

“Engaging in the very grounding and ancient nature of farming organic home produce, even in this compact format, was extremely therapeutic in itself. There’s something profound about raising plants and reaping the benefits of producing your own food.

“It inspires you to use your new produce to create better meals and waste less food.”

Mr Ellis said growing your own food and eating healthily was difficult for most people in a modern, fast-paced society.

“We go from building to building, from chair to chair, from screen to screen and have disconnected with so many natural living environments and processes that we should be able to enjoy everyday,” he said.

“By taking a few minutes every day to tend to your home produce, you get to take a breath and remember what it is that is important.

“That breath of fresh air is as important for the mind as it is for the body; it’s like a little holiday, every day.

“You head off about your day with a new and clearer sense of self.”

Mr Ellis said the micro-farm was solar-powered and made from recyclable and renewable materials.

“Having experienced first-hand the healing nature of the process of growing home produce as a part of a healthy diet, I feel even more driven to share this process with as many people as possible, but especially the people that need it most,” he said.

“It’s my hope that I can find a great small community location for this system, like an aged-care facility or mental health care facility.

For more, email info@megrow.org.