 Michiko, SCGP Director (left) with Rachel, SCGP Manager (right) This month’s special guest is Michiko Kurisu. She is an artist and gardener based in Delray Beach, Florida. In 2008 she founded the Swinton Community Garden with her friend, Betsy Pickup and has directed it ever since! The garden has evolved into a permaculture-based food forest in the heart of the city, providing a green sanctuary, education, and opportunities for people of all ages to engage with nature. Michiko has also worked with her father in a family-run Japanese garden design and build firm, Kurisu LLC, for over 20 years. |
| In the interview with Michiko she shared about the transformations that occurred in the Swinton Community Garden over the years, from garden boxes to a food forest / nature sanctuary. She originally had no intention for the project to become what it is today! Originally she was looking for land to start growing her own food, this was during the 2008 economic downturn, which sparked desire for many community members to also grow their own food and connect with nature so the community garden was born! Over the pandemic a similar situation occurred. Michiko and Rachel (Garden Manager) thought it’s the middle of summer nobody is going to come out and volunteer, however people of all ages showed up to help, learn, find peace, and connect with the local community. In the interview she shares about what life lessons and wisdom she has observed through working in the garden, as well as, observing others. |
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| I asked her “What wisdom would Nature like to share with our modern society?” She said “nothing”. Rather than Nature giving us more she shared we need to LISTEN to what’s already all around us, and I couldn’t agree more! Nature is filled with wisdom already, but it requires us to bring mindful attention to the present moment to observe, be curious, and open to listening. You can listen to the recording HERE. Check out Swinton Community Garden on Instagram @swintoncgp for event updates and how to get involved!! With Love and Gratitude, Lizzie Shutt |
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Lizzie is a heart-centered entrepreneur who has a vision of helping people all around the world shine their light and live their most aligned life. She recently received her B.S in Horticulture at the University of Florida and Holistic Health Coach certification from IIN. She has combined her two passions, environmental stewardship and helping others, by creating an online coaching program that connects clients to their body, mind, soul, and nature. Taking inspiration from nature’s interconnected designs, Lizzie works with clients to create a balanced life ecosystem that supports them in living an aligned life. Connect with her on Instagram @lizzie_shutt or www.lizzieshutt.com