Biodynamic Living & Planning

What is Biodynamics?

Biodynamics isn’t some odd-ball new theory. In fact, the theory of biodynamics was developed by Rudolf Steiner more than a hundred years ago (1). You may not hear Steiner’s name mentioned on a regular basis, but you may be surprised to find out just how much his life’s work has influenced modern culture and our current, popular movement toward organic, healthy living and holistic approaches to life. The formal name of the system developed by Stiener is, “anthroposophy.” According to the Lexico Oxford Dictionary, Anthroposophy is defined as, “  A formal educational, therapeutic, and creative system established by Rudolf Steiner, seeking to use mainly natural means to optimize physical and mental health and well-being.” (2) 

In today’s world, the most common places you will see evidence of Steiner’s theory of biodynamics at work are in farming communities and Waldorf Schools; however, there are ties to Steiner’s idea of Anthroposophy in any holistic approach to life. The idea of becoming a fully actualized human by striving to live more in sync with natural rhythms, exploring all aspects of creativity, and connecting with a spiritual practice are the basic premise of Rudolf Steiner’s life’s work.(3) If you have ever worked with a naturopath, enjoyed organic food, or considered investing in a socially responsible business or mutual fund, you are participating in furthering Steiner’s ideas of self and social development.(4)

(1) Who Was Rudolf Stiener, Biodynamics Association, https://www.biodynamics.com/steiner.html

(2) Lexico Oxford Dictionary, https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/anthroposophy

(3) Rudolf Stiener Org, https://www.rudolfsteiner.org/

(4) Open Democracy, Free Thinking for the World, https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/transformation/making-everything-our-business-social-legacy-of-rudolf-steiner/