I find it to be magical that in a time when I want to solidify my commitment to being a good earth steward, I find myself staying in a Mongolian Ger.

Staying here prompted me to want to learn more about this structure and the lifestyle of the Mongolians, who over the course of 3,000 years perfected the Ger I am staying in today.

As an Herbalist I found their use of Juniper to be fascinating. They used the berries for a number of remedies including Anthrax. Which makes sense given their close relationship with sheep. They also used the berries for Arthritis, which given I suffer from Psoriatic Arthritis I am excited to try it.

They also used Juniper berries in fermented foods and breads. And since we happen to be a family that ferments and makes homemade breads, we are very excited to include this tradition in our own recipes.

Something else I found to be interesting but also near and dear to my heart, was the foundation of respect for the earth and nature in Mongolian culture and traditions. For instance, the Ger was created to not be anchored to the earth out of respect for the land they dwelled on. When they were faced with high winds they would use rope and large rocks to secure the Ger.

It is truly heartbreaking to learn that due to climate change they are unable to continue their nomadic way of life. How tragic that a people who had so much respect for the earth, are so deeply impacted by people who probably know nothing more of Mongolia other than Ghengis Khan. And I think that about sums up how entirely selfish billionaires and some humans are.