What is Homesteading?
Homesteading is a lifestyle and philosophy rooted in self-sufficiency, sustainability, and a connection to the land. This trend is gaining momentum in North America and across other countries as people seek out a more purposeful and self-reliant way of life.
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People who homestead engage in a range of activities including growing their own food, raising animals, preserving food, repairing old furniture, and adopting eco-friendly practices like reducing waste and living off of clean energy.
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Another component of homesteading is "heritage skills." Heritage skills refer to traditional practices and crafts that have been passed down through generations, often rooted in the cultural and historical context of a community or region. Examples of heritage skills include: sewing, soap making, baking bread, woodworking and basketry.​
Some people homestead to escape from the grind of city life or choose to live more independently. Others seek to improve health and wellness or just want to be prepared for an uncertain future.
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Homesteading ranges from off-grid living and smallhold farming to backyard gardening. There are even urban homesteads that feature container gardening, upcycling, and the use of alternative transportation.
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The word "homestead" is new to Japan, but the concept is not. Homesteading shares many of the same concepts and values as "satoyama" life, where humans living in villages coexist with the surrounding natural environment.
It should be noted that homesteading is not just a return to the past—it also includes innovations and technology to create a blend of new and old based on the principles of sustainability.
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Homesteading is a literal return to our roots, challenging the consumer-driven ethos of our society. It envisions a future where people prioritize coexistence with nature, emphasizing health and happiness. This future, though seemingly utopian, is not about perfection but rather a holistic approach that fosters resilience and mindful living. Through homesteading, we reconnect with the simplicity of life, embracing a sustainable way forward that redefines our purpose and our relationship with the environment.