My families wine farm, is a great example of how the unique terroir along with the dedicated efforts of the amazing team combine to produce some of the top wines in the country: 

“Iona is the coolest vineyard in South Africa, with a ripening season showing the best of Burgundy and Sancerre with the advantage of warmer Springs and Autumns and lower summer rainfall. 

         www.iona.co.za

 

Like Iona’s vines, we human beings are influenced by the environmental factors surrounding us and inside of us. These combine to form our personal terroir which influences our physical, mental and emotional state. In optimal conditions we thrive – but unfortunately most of us are struggling. We are living in far greater luxury and ease than ever before in the history of humanity yet anxiety, stress, depression, disease, disconnection are more prevalent than ever. 

Unlike the vines however, we have a certain degree of control over our environmental conditions. So my challenge to you is to take a good honest look at your terroir. Do you surround yourself with the environmental factors that will support, nurture and nourish you? Here are a few points to get you started….

1.  The food you eat - Are you nourishing your body mind and soul with wholesome real foods packed with fibre and nutrients or are you polluting it with processed foods full of artificial additives?
2. The environment in which you live and work – Do you enjoy being in your home and workplace? Is it clean and free of clutter?
3. The people you associate with - Do you surround yourself with people who are supportive, uplifting and positive or do they drag you down?
4. The activities you participate in – Do they stimulate you mentally, help you stay physically active and strong? Do you take time to enjoy silence and reflection?
5. The products you use – Do you use toxic cleaning products and cosmetics? Do you wear natural fibres that allow your skin to breathe?
6. What you watch, read & listen to – Are you bombarded with images of violence, war, sex advertisements and loud jarring music etc or are you discerning with what you let into your life? 
7. The thoughts you think – Controlling your own mind is lifes single greatest challenge. Yoga and meditation can teach you some simple tools to get you on the right track.

And yes, there are environmental factors that you won’t be able to change (might not be able to totally avoid your mother in law or boss!) but remember that you always have the power to choose how you react to them. 

I am sure with a few small tweaks to your environment you can improve your personal terroir considerably!