Meg Ulman, advocate for a connected lifeway, talks about joyful frugality, forest names, and menopause. Embracing unconventional permaculture practices, composting human waste, and living without a car for time prioritization and minimalism. Also discusses emotional connections in a forest circle and repair culture in a local community.
Embracing a radically connected lifeway involves composting, ditching cars, and joyful frugality for sustainable living.
Choosing forest names for children cultivates a deeper connection to nature and ecological interdependence.
Exploring menopause as a transformative journey embraces wisdom, community connections, and personal growth.
Deep dives
The Importance of Community and Skills in Rural Living
Living in a rural village characterized by unique skills and a strong sense of community, individuals engage in activities like growing produce, hunting, and crafting. Family dynamics involve ditching cars for cargo bikes, foraging, and teaching practical skills to children. The community values self-sufficiency, sustainability, and unconventional practices, fostering a culture of sharing, creativity, and connection.
Personal Transformation Through Nature Connection
Meg Olman shares her journey of connecting with nature, leading her to adopt the forest name 'Magpie'. Embracing the paradox of the black-and-white Magpie, she reflects on her grounding in nature and the value of living close to the earth. Through personal experiences and observations of wildlife, Meg redefines her identity and finds a deep sense of belonging and purpose.
Forest Names and Affinity to Nature
Children in the community are encouraged to adopt forest names representing local flora and fauna, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world. The process of choosing and embodying these names reflects a sense of affinity to the environment and an awareness of ecological interdependence. The practice highlights the importance of cultural traditions and personal identification with nature.
Exploring Indigenous Belonging and Cultural Appropriation
Reflecting on indigenous cultures' deep connection to land and heritage, Meg acknowledges the complexity of belonging and cultural appropriation. While inspired by indigenous practices, Meg emphasizes the need for genuine, respectful engagement with nature and heritage. Her exploration delves into personal identity, cultural understanding, and the quest for authentic belonging.
Embracing Menopause and Wisdom Years
Approaching menopause with humility and curiosity, Meg navigates this transitional phase by seeking wisdom from older women and embracing self-exploration. She acknowledges and embraces the transformative power of aging, valuing experiences, community connections, and personal growth. Through introspection, research, and shared experiences, Meg embraces menopausal changes as a profound journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Can we tempt you sell your car, compost your shit and embrace a life of joyful frugality?
You don't have to answer right away. Listen to this conversation with Meg Ulman of Artist as Family to hear what a radically connected lifeway is all about.
We cover a lot of ground in this episode from growing up Jewish and getting intentional about time, to forest names, bush kids, menopause and grief.