We love learning about local organizations that share our core values of protecting the environment and sustaining it for future generations. That’s why we spoke with Jhuma Buswas from the Holistic Moms Network to learn more about natural and holistic living.
Jhuma, why is natural health/non-toxic living important to the Metrowest community and other communities?
For a healthier and more sustainable planet, and ultimately the health of us, our children, and future generations.
Did you find it difficult to make the transition to natural/holistic living? What advice would you give to someone looking to make that change for themselves and their family?
I wouldn’t say that it was difficult for me. It made complete sense to me once I was pointed in that direction. For me, it all began with the birth of my daughter, and the pieces started falling together. The awareness and instinct to protect, nourish, do what is right for my child and the Earth she is going to inherit from us, just paved the way for me to educate and inform myself on the toxins that are currently present in every aspect of our lives.
It is quite another thing to convince family members though, sometimes even spouses , when the status quo (including consequences) hasn’t dawned on them yet. My best advice is to start slow, bit by bit as the information can be overwhelming. One small change at a time. And, get support. Find people that think like you, that question the status quo, join organizations like the Holistic Moms Network. There are a ton of resources available, and ever growing every day. You are not alone. Let your instincts and heart guide your path.
How do holistic moms deal with environments outside of the home that are not enforcing natural or holistic practices?
Great question! By just being who we are. Sometimes, we choose to go with the flow. Sometimes, we choose to educate depending on the situation. Sometimes, just by making different choices for ourselves and our families, we can let others know that there are other options out there. There shouldn’t be any judgment or guilt trips involved. Whatever we do, kindness and understanding is important. Most of us can relate to being at a place when we didn’t know what natural or holistic practices were. When you know better, you do better. That is our motto.
If people are open to learning more, then they come find us. If not, then at least a seed has been planted. Sometimes, the seed needs time to germinate, and that is totally fine. I don’t think we can insist that change happen all at once or even that everyone should be on board. It would be disastrous actually, as that is not the way Nature or Life works. Slow changes are good. Respect each other’s decisions and choices. That way, it allows the society as well as the environment to maintain homeostasis in the process of change.
What do you hope is the long-term effect of building holistic communities? How is HMN helping in this effort and how can people get involved?
Ultimately to create positive change, leading to a healthy sustainable future for our children and the planet. We are faced with a huge number of crises in our current society. While we are becoming more “advanced” in some areas of life, our basics are suffering. While we have gotten acute epidemics under control, put convenience at our fingertips in all aspects of our lives, something went awry on that path, as chronic health conditions have risen by leaps and bounds.
For our Earth (which ultimately also affects us), among other things there is the issue of climate change, and thinning of the ozone layer, and garbage in the Pacific ocean, radiation issues, etc. The holistic journey begins with an understanding and respect for how all living things are connected and how we impact one another.
HMN’s mission is to create awareness, provide information, educate and support ANYONE who is interested in learning about holistic and green living. HMN is dedicated to facilitating grassroots community-building throughout the nation, offering moms and dads the opportunity to create or be part of local chapters where they can connect and find friendship and resources that are so necessary for successful parenting, and ultimately to EMPOWER THEM TO MAKE INFORMED CHOICES. Positive change begins there. People can get involved by joining and contributing.
For more information you can visit www.holisticmoms.org.