Welcome to Granola Trails
Welcome, dear reader,
I warmly invite you in to this virtual space, which I intend to imbue with an abundance of love, authenticity and the increasingly illusive rare beast that is free thought.
If you find yourself reading Granola Trails for the first time, this welcome post offers a roadmap of sorts. Granola Trails takes its name from the origins of the slang “crunchy” (ie. “crunchy mother”), meaning a mother who is inclined towards holistic and natural philosophies and lifestyle choices. In times past, such mothers were often stereotypically associated with the [crunchy] granola fad. Each article will follow a different “trail”, by sharing a crunchy story or perspective.
This space is likely to be of most interest to parents who might self-describe as “crunchy” or “scrunchy”, as well as anyone who has an interest in holistic, natural, mindful and sustainable living.
Granola Trails will explore topics such as slow living, screen-free living, home education, mindfulness, birth outside the system, homesteading, wholefoods, organic and biodynamic gardening, fitness for longevity, mindset and spirituality.
In navigating my own crunchy journey of pregnancy, birth and motherhood, I have spent many hours, days, weeks (and sometimes months) lovingly exploring topics of great importance to myself and my family. My hope is that by sharing some of the perspectives and insights I have encountered, I might offer something of modest value to others who choose to travel a similarly crunchy, scrunchy (or even silky) path.
What a unique time we currently find ourselves in.
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Those of us who value the freedom to think, emote and speak with candidness and authenticity have become increasingly aware of the presence of wolves in sheep’s clothing; oppressive authoritarianism often disguised as virtuous compassion. We find ourselves navigating a time where the air is thick with the seductive pull to conform, accept group think, and support “on trend” opinions without question.
For those who are willing to seek it, there is always light to be found during dark times. A great many wonderful lessons can be gleaned from life if we choose to see challenges as opportunities. No matter the individual, familial, or communal experiences we encounter, I firmly believe that we are being called to embrace the opportunity to self-educate and peacefully reclaim our personal power. At this time, I choose to be inspired, to have faith and to focus on everything that is positive and healthy for myself and family.
Granola Trails intentionally focuses on the positive; the inspiring things I have encountered, including heartfelt musings, reflections, and much more. Perhaps it might offer a gentle light in uncertain parenting times.
I intend to discuss the works of many eminent and challenging sources, including (but certainly not limited to): Charlotte Mason, Dr Dan Siegel, Rhea Dempsey, Professor Jonathan Haidt, Dr Melanie Jackson, James McKenna, Brett Weinstein, Heather Heying, Jordan Peterson, Dr Gabor Maté, Dr Gordon Neufield, Jon Kabat-Zinn and many more.
Crunchy (ie. holistic) parenting has been described by different sources in many ways, but my experience is that it stems from a desire to offer our children and families the most holistically grounded, mindful and loving lives we are able to provide; which of course can look very different for each family. There is no “one size fits all” crunchy way of life. Of course most parents — whether crunchy or silky (ie. mainstream)- all seek to do the very best for their children.
Contrary to divisive popular culture (mis)representation, we (genuinely) crunchy folk do not hold ourselves in comparatively higher esteem than anyone else; we simply value the freedom to live as we choose. Sadly, many of us have encountered our fair share of unprovoked judgement, condescension and ridicule from those who misperceive us. The last thing we want is for anyone else to experience the same disheartening scrutiny. Granola Trails will never pass judgement on others’ choices. The family and home are sacred and private realms.
While I certainly have the best of intentions to speak the truth as I understand it, I recognize with humility that the opinions and perspectives I share may be incomplete or inaccurate at times, despite my best efforts. I am after all, only human and a busy (and sometimes tired) mother.
To offer one final gentle reminder; nothing included in these articles is intended as personal or personalised advice. I write only as a well-meaning mother and human-being. I trust that you will research and discern what is right and safe for your own unique family circumstances, and that you will always seek advice from appropriately qualified professionals before making any decisions based on anything you read in Granola Trails.
If the above offering resonates with you, I invite you to journey with me as I explore the greatest privilege of life — motherhood.
