Biodynamics, Spagyrics and Alchemy

Horticulture has also been developed around the world using Biodynamic principles, contributing to approaches to food production that give due attention to the planet, to people as well as to the planetary ecosystem in which we participate.

Herb growing can also be addressed through a Biodynamic lens, and various different practices and approaches to working with herbs have been employed by different growers in different gardens around the globe. This day introduces core principles of Biodynamics and takes a particular focus on growing and processing herbs with a Biodynamic approach.

Dr Jonathan Code, MEd. Jonathan is a lecturer in the Faculty for Environment and Transdisciplinary Studies of the Crossfields Institute. He is currently co-leading on a distance learning, situated research degree ‘Researching Holistic Approaches to Agroecology’. Jonathan has studied holistic approaches to agroecology (organics, permaculture, biodynamics) for over twenty years and he contributes to land-based and transformative education for learners of all ages in the UK and abroad.

Day One: Biodynamics, Herbs and the Healing Plant

9:30-16:30

In 1924 the Austrian philosopher, social reformer and founder of anthroposophy gave a series of 8 lectures on agriculture which instigated what is now a worldwide philosophy and practice of agriculture known as Biodynamics. Biodynamics is often considered in the context of farming, and the notion of the ‘farm organism’ or ‘farm individuality’ is central to the Biodynamic impulse.

Day Two: SPAGYRICS and ALCHEMY: To Separate and Reunite

9:30-16:30

An Introduction to making herbal elixirs based on the principles and practices of Plant Alchemy.

This is an introduction to the principles and practices that sit at the heart of Spagyric remedy making. The day will include lecture content, practical demonstrations, discussion and many opportunities to consider the place that Spagyric medicines held – and can hold – in a contemporary herbal study and practice.

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