Out of the birth canal into the soil.

The birth of a new baby and the sprouting of a seed are two of nature's most profound processes.

When a baby is born naturally there is a microbial transfer from the mother's microbiota, colonising the skin and gut. This immediate exposure is critical for developing the baby's immune system and overall health.

Likewise a seed undergoes a similar colonisation as the protective seed coat opens and the embryo emerges. As the seedling pushes through the soil, it encounters a myriad of microorganisms. These microbes establish symbiotic relationships with the plant roots aiding in nutrient absorption and establishing the plants resilience against pests and disease. We call this the rhizosphere.

After birth a baby's environment continues to inform it's development with things like skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding having big impacts on the microbiome, with more exposure leading to diversity as they mature.

Similarly, the seedling relies on soil's nutrients and it's microbial community for sustained growth. Healthy soil, rich in organic matter and biodiversity supports the plant's development both in it's roots and it's foliage.

The story of natural birth and seeds germinating in living soil illustrates nature's ability to create and sustain life through complex and intricate systems. By understanding and nurturing these natural processes we can promote healthier beginnings for both humans and plants, fostering a more resilient (and dare I say it) regenerative world.