14 Jul My Journey Toward Regenerative Living

Greetings from Asturias, Paraïso Natural!

Nestled in the western mountains of Asturias, Spain, Besullo has become my haven, a place where I’ve found not just a home but a deep sense of belonging and purpose. Today, I am sharing the story of my journey toward regenerative living and the foundational principles that have guided me.

Burning Desire

My journey into regenerative living began with a burning desire to become self-reliant and have control over the quality of the food I eat. In a world where madness seems to lurk around every corner, I wanted to take control of my living conditions and ensure my well-being. Growing my own food not only saves an enormous amount of money but also guarantees that I consume the freshest, healthiest produce possible. I wanted to break free from the chains of dependency on industrial food systems and instead embrace a life where I could cultivate and harvest my sustenance, knowing exactly where it came from and how it was grown.

Setting Foot on Asturias Soil for the First Time

The turning point for me came in the winter of 2017 when I visited Asturias for the first time. As soon as I set foot in this enchanting land, I was captivated by its wild beauty and the warmth of its people. The lush, rolling hills, the dense forests, and the pristine rivers all spoke to me in a language that I had long yearned to hear. Deep in my heart, I knew that this was where I needed to be to fulfil my deepest desires. Having lived again in the Netherlands since 2010, I had struggled to find my footing. While I had many wonderful moments there, it lacked the profound connection to people and nature that I craved.

Challenges and Transitions

Transitioning to this lifestyle wasn’t without its challenges. The biggest hurdle was a mental block that seemed to stop the flow of money in my life. As an independent filmmaker and photographer, I sought projects I could commit to morally. Yet, despite the inspiring themes, the financial flow was inconsistent. When money did come in, I made poor investment choices, leading to financial instability and a growing sense of fear. This fear held me back, paralysing me. But I knew that if I wanted to break free from this cycle, I had to make a major change.

The transition was gradual, involving trips with my mother to Asturias to discover the province more deeply. Each visit solidified my decision. Finally, I reached a point where I knew I had to make the jump, with or without money. I decided to quit my business, store my belongings, sell what I could, and move to Asturias. Initially, I engaged in a work-away arrangement that didn’t work out as planned. But, as they say, everything happens for a reason. Returning to Besullo, I was received with open arms, which sealed the deal for me. My friend opened her house to me, providing me with a place to stay, and I was gifted an orchard by another friend, where I could plant my vegetable garden.

PRINCIPLES OF REGENERATIVE LIVING

Regenerative living is built on principles that enhance our health, community, and environment.

Here’s a glimpse into these foundational principles:

Be Physically Active Naturally in Nature

In Besullo, being physically active is not a chore but a joy. The mountains call to me, inviting me to hike their rugged trails, while the rivers beckon me for a refreshing dip. Every day, I engage in activities that not only keep me fit but also connect me deeply with nature. Whether it’s tending to my garden, chopping wood for the fire, or foraging for wild herbs, I feel a profound sense of vitality and well-being.

Know Your Sense of Purpose

Living here has given me a clear sense of purpose. My days are filled with meaningful tasks that contribute to my well-being and that of the community. I find joy in growing my own food, knowing that each plant I nurture is a step toward self-sufficiency. My purpose extends beyond my garden to the broader community, where I strive to inspire others to embrace a regenerative lifestyle.

Downshift to Reduce Stress

One of the greatest gifts of regenerative living is the ability to downshift and reduce stress. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, stress is a constant companion. But here, in the tranquil embrace of Besullo, I have learned to slow down. I prioritise activities that relax and rejuvenate me, whether it’s sitting by the fire with a good book, taking a leisurely stroll through the forest, or practising mindfulness and meditation.

Eat Until You Are 80% Full

Mindful eating is a cornerstone of regenerative living. I have adopted the practice of eating until I am 80% full, a principle rooted in ancient wisdom. This approach not only promotes better digestion and health but also fosters a greater appreciation for the food I eat. Each meal is a celebration of the flavours and textures of the produce I have grown with my own hands.

Eat a Rich Bean/Plant-Based Diet and Only Small Amounts of Meat

My diet has undergone a significant transformation since embracing regenerative living. I now focus on a rich bean and plant-based diet, with only small amounts of meat. The fertile soils of Asturias provide an abundance of fresh vegetables, legumes, and fruits, making it easy to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. The occasional meat I consume comes from local farmers who raise their animals with care and respect.

Drink Alcohol Moderately and Regularly

In Besullo, the culture of moderate and regular alcohol consumption is deeply ingrained. Sharing a glass of homemade wine with friends and neighbours is a cherished tradition that fosters connection and community. I have learned to enjoy alcohol in moderation, savouring each sip and appreciating the craftsmanship that goes into making these beverages.

Belong to a Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey has been becoming part of the Besullo community. Here, I have found a sense of belonging that I had longed for. The villagers have welcomed me with open arms, sharing their knowledge, traditions, and stories. I have formed deep bonds with my neighbours, and together we support and uplift each other.

Put Family First and Invest in Your Children/Loved Ones with Time and Love

Family is the cornerstone of regenerative living. While my immediate family is not here with me, I have embraced the idea of investing time and love in my extended family – the community of Besullo. I have learned that family is not just about blood relations but about the connections we build with those around us.

Find the Right Tribe

Finding the right tribe has been crucial to my journey. I have surrounded myself with a social circle that supports healthy behaviours and shares my values. And as I explore new ways to live sustainably and experiment with regenerative farming techniques, I contribute my findings with all who have an interest.

Personal Transformation

Living regeneratively has transformed my life, giving me a sense of fulfilment and connection that I never imagined possible. This lifestyle, where I am ever-changing and ever-growing, gives back to Mother Nature, the community, and enhances my personal well-being. 

One experience that left a lasting impression on me was joining other women from the village to inspect sausages being smoked as part of the Matanza, the traditional annual slaughter which happens at the start of winter. This process, steeped in tradition, involves the entire community and exemplifies the give-and-take relationship with nature. 

New Chapter

My new lifestyle has inspired some friends to reflect on their own way of living. And here, the community appreciates my youthful energy and my interest in learning their ways of living with the land. Observing my methods, some neighbours have even picked-up regenerative farming practices (again) themselves.

In Besullo, I have found a place where my dreams of regenerative living have become a reality. This journey has been one of self-discovery, growth, and profound connection to the land and its people. Every day, I am reminded of the beauty and abundance that comes from living in harmony with nature. This lifestyle, ever-evolving and ever-enriching, offers a path to fulfilment and purpose that I had always yearned for.

And who knows, you may recognise yourself in the story I am telling and feel a connection with it. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet village, there are always ways to connect with nature, build community, and lead a life that is both fulfilling and sustainable. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to sharing more stories from the mountains, my natural paradise, here in Asturias.

Join Me on My Journey

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👉 Learn and Grow: Keep enjoying this weekly blog series for more stories on living regeneratively.

Stay tuned for my next story on Living a Lifestyle Optimised for a Long and Fulfilling Life.

In Joy we Share! 🌱

Lara 

ULRIKA Living