theheartysoul--2020-08-06--Service Lets You Rent a Stranger’s Swimming Pool for an Afternoon

Summer fun often include lounging by a serene pool , but public pools are often anything but .
You ’ re surrounded by people , splashing , chatter , and hopefully not urine .
Just because your backyard doesn ’ t have pool doesn ’ t mean you have to let go of the dream of relaxing by one .
Maybe , rent a swimming pool ?
Introducing : Swimply .
Swimply is like an Airbnb service that allows property owners to rent out their swimming pools by the hour to anyone craving a peaceful swim .
The site was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could put his hardly-used backyard pool to good use .
Hourly rates are higher than the cost of a day pass at a local public pool , and most places have a one-hour minimum policy in place .
Whatever you ’ re looking for , you can easily find a pool that meets your needs .
The Los Angeles area alone has listings of pools ranging in price of $ 25 to $ 150 an hour .
[ 1 ] The more expensive pools can include additional luxuries like : You always can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The hosts will post the maximum guests they ’ ll allow to their pool .
Read : Stock Tank Pools Are the Future , Starting This Summer Where is Swimply Available ?
Swimply ’ s service is based in New York and runs in many states across the U.S .
This includes : The website is conducive to quick searches for available pools based on location .
Immediately on Swimply ’ s website is a search bar to find a pool near you .
Once you find a place and are approved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you confirm the purchase .
Swimplychat is a feature that allows potential buyers and owners to communicate and coordinate to ensure they are the right fit for each other .
The chat function ensures data privacy and user protections .
Once the buyer confirms , they will receive any information they need , including the address , how to enter and exit , and other tidbits , like the Wi-Fi password and how to access the bathroom if there would be one available .
[ 3 ] Hosts and guests can review each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future hosts and guests .
For property owners who don ’ t use their pool every day and would like some supplementary income , it ’ s easy to make an account on Swimply and list the pool .
Owners are able to screen potential guests and accept only those they feel comfortable working with .
Guest profiles and the Swimplychat feature helps hosts make the decision .
Read : How To Build The Coolest Looking ‘ Pallet Swimming Pool ’ Ever , Using Only 40 Pallets !
Before you book a pool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures are in place to protect the guests from potentially contracting the coronavirus from previous guests , for example , limiting the number of people allowed in at a time and disinfecting lawn chairs and pool toys between use .
Chlorine and other pool chemicals should be able to deactivate any germs , according to the CDC .
The same can not be said for saltwater pools , however , so ensure the host has some other measure in place if that is the kind of water used .
If you plan to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same measures of protection against the virus still stand : • Keep a distance of at least six feet from others whenever possible .
• Wear a mask that covers your mouth and your nose .
This stops the spreading of the disease from those who are asymptomatic .
( Do not , however , wear a mask while in the water since it could become wet and become a drowning hazard .
Wear it while on dry land only and focus on trying keep a distance from others while swimming .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ case yours gets wet .
• Don ’ t share food , toys , or equipment with people who don ’ t live with you .
[ 4 ] • Wash your hands frequently with soap or at least hand sanitizer .
Don ’ t ignore this rule because you ’ ve been in the water .
Ensure your hands are disinfected , especially before you eat or touch your face or after you sneeze , cough , or blow your nose .
• Keep your group to a maximum of 10 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a party with more people , it ’ s recommended you decline , even if it ’ s at a beach .
• have come into contact with a person who ’ s sick • are older and therefore at risk • have a chronic illness that puts you at high risk If you come to the beach or pool to find it very crowded , it ’ s best to turn around and go home .
Large crowds heighten the chance of catching the virus and potentially spreading it to older and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We can have the summer fun we crave but it ’ s important we stay safe as well .
Keep Reading : The risk levels of everyday activities like dining out , going to the gym , and getting a haircut , according to an infectious-disease expert

Summer fun often include lounging by a serene pool, but public pools are often anything but. You’re surrounded by people, splashing, chatter, and hopefully not urine. Just because your backyard doesn’t have pool doesn’t mean you have to let go of the dream of relaxing by one. Maybe, rent a swimming pool? Introducing: Swimply.
Swimply: Airbnb But For Pools!
Swimply is like an Airbnb service that allows property owners to rent out their swimming pools by the hour to anyone craving a peaceful swim. The site was created when its founder wondered how he could put his hardly-used backyard pool to good use.
Hourly rates are higher than the cost of a day pass at a local public pool, and most places have a one-hour minimum policy in place. Whatever you’re looking for, you can easily find a pool that meets your needs. The Los Angeles area alone has listings of pools ranging in price of $25 to $150 an hour. [1] The more expensive pools can include additional luxuries like:
hot tubs
saltwater pools
grills
fire pits
pool table and/or ping pong table
dining areas
refrigerator access
overnight pool house rental
towels
toys
lounge chairs
You always can share the space—and the cost—with some friends. The hosts will post the maximum guests they’ll allow to their pool.
Where is Swimply Available?
Swimply’s service is based in New York and runs in many states across the U.S. This includes:
California
Texas
Florida
Arizona
Georgia
Connecticut
Illinois
Michigan
Maryland
Massachusetts
New Mexico
North Hampshire
New Jersey
Oregon
North Carolina
South Carolina
Vermont
Virginia [2]
The website is conducive to quick searches for available pools based on location.
Here’s How Swimply Works
Immediately on Swimply’s website is a search bar to find a pool near you. Once you find a place and are approved, you will only be charged once you confirm the purchase. Swimplychat is a feature that allows potential buyers and owners to communicate and coordinate to ensure they are the right fit for each other. The chat function ensures data privacy and user protections. Once the buyer confirms, they will receive any information they need, including the address, how to enter and exit, and other tidbits, like the Wi-Fi password and how to access the bathroom if there would be one available. [3]
Hosts and guests can review each other after every booking to help instruct future hosts and guests.
For property owners who don’t use their pool every day and would like some supplementary income, it’s easy to make an account on Swimply and list the pool. Owners are able to screen potential guests and accept only those they feel comfortable working with. Guest profiles and the Swimplychat feature helps hosts make the decision.
Read: How To Build The Coolest Looking ‘Pallet Swimming Pool’ Ever, Using Only 40 Pallets!
Pool Safety Tips During the Coronavirus Pandemic
Before you book a pool with Swimply, ask the host what measures are in place to protect the guests from potentially contracting the coronavirus from previous guests, for example, limiting the number of people allowed in at a time and disinfecting lawn chairs and pool toys between use. Chlorine and other pool chemicals should be able to deactivate any germs, according to the CDC. The same cannot be said for saltwater pools, however, so ensure the host has some other measure in place if that is the kind of water used.
If you plan to visits a public pool or beach, the same measures of protection against the virus still stand:
Keep a distance of at least six feet from others whenever possible.
Wear a mask that covers your mouth and your nose. This stops the spreading of the disease from those who are asymptomatic. (Do not, however, wear a mask while in the water since it could become wet and become a drowning hazard. Wear it while on dry land only and focus on trying keep a distance from others while swimming.) Also bring an extra mask in case yours gets wet.
Don’t share food, toys, or equipment with people who don’t live with you. [4]
Wash your hands frequently with soap or at least hand sanitizer. Don’t ignore this rule because you’ve been in the water. Ensure your hands are disinfected, especially before you eat or touch your face or after you sneeze, cough, or blow your nose.
Keep your group to a maximum of 10 people. If you’re invited to a party with more people, it’s recommended you decline, even if it’s at a beach.
Stay home if:
you are feeling sick
have come into contact with a person who’s sick
are older and therefore at risk
have a chronic illness that puts you at high risk
If you come to the beach or pool to find it very crowded, it’s best to turn around and go home. Large crowds heighten the chance of catching the virus and potentially spreading it to older and immunocompromised loved ones. [5] We can have the summer fun we crave but it’s important we stay safe as well.


theheartysoul--2020-08-06--World’s Largest 3D Printer Makes Almost Zero Cost Homes Out of Mud

According to United Nations projections , the global population is expected to reach 11.2 billion by the end of the century , up from 7.7 billion in 2019 [ 1 ] .
As our population grows , so too will the need for more affordable and sustainable housing- an issue we are already facing with our current population size .
One company has found an innovative way to make 3D printed homes that use only local materials and can be built at a fraction of the cost of conventional homes .
The World ’ s Advanced Savings Project ( aka- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes out of mud and clay using the world ’ s largest 3D printer [ 2 ] .
Building with earth dates back millennia , but today it is being combined with modern digital fabrication techniques in order to supply widespread housing in poverty-stricken areas .
The mud houses are constructed using a process called biomimicry , which draws inspiration from the solutions that are already available in nature .
Large , delta-style 3D printers then manufacture habitable homes out of the materials available in the surrounding environment .
One of WASP ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affordable tiny home that ’ s been printed out of mud using a new “ infinity 3D printer ” , called the Crane Wasp .
Read : Want to double world food production ?
Return the land to small farmers .
The Crane Wasp has been developed specifically to print large-scale structures out of materials found in its immediate vicinity , which the company calls “ zero-kilometer architecture ” .
It is easy to assemble and disassemble , and multiple printers can be set up in a modular fashion by adding more traverse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ larger structures , or multiple structures if needed .
The company says that this means that it is unnecessary to cover the entire area involved in the construction with the printing area of the cranes because they can be reconfigured depending on the growth and shape of the building .
Gaia was printed in only ten days out of locally sourced soil , rice husks , and straw , and only cost 1 035 dollars for the extra materials required , including windows , doors , thermo-acoustic insulation , fixtures , and protective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an organization that focuses on the enhancement of waste from rice cultivation , in order to create Gaia .
The compound used to build the structure was 25 percent soil , ( 30 percent clay , 40 percent silt and 30 percent sand ) which was taken from the site , 40 percent straw chopped rice , 25 percent rice husk , and ten percent hydraulic lime [ 3 ] .
WASP is an Italian company that is a pioneer in the world of 3D printing with mud .
All of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent self-financed , and the revenue from the sale of their printers gets reinvested into research and development for future projects .
The company ’ s goal is to produce zero-mile homes , using only materials found in the surrounding area .
The company describes their dream on their website : “ Print a healthy , beautiful and human-scale home with a cost that tends to be null.
” [ 4 ] The company says that earth is available everywhere , it is cheap , and it is easily malleable .
When combined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , buildings can be printed that last , that are structurally sound , and that do not leave ruins behind once they are no longer in use .
Read : Austin Is Getting a Village of 3D-Printed Affordable Homes—and They Look Incredible Wasp ’ s long-term goal is to create an entire “ technological village ” using their 3D printing system .
The village , which is already underway , will be located in Massa Lombarda , Italy , and will function in a circular , self-sufficient economy wherein residents will grow their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make their own products , tools , and furniture .
As the company website says : Keep Reading : Italian Engineers Have Developed A 3D Printed Hack To Turn Scuba Gear Into Ventilator Masks

According to United Nations projections, the global population is expected to reach 11.2 billion by the end of the century, up from 7.7 billion in 2019 [1]. As our population grows, so too will the need for more affordable and sustainable housing- an issue we are already facing with our current population size.
One company has found an innovative way to make 3D printed homes that use only local materials and can be built at a fraction of the cost of conventional homes.
3D Printed Homes
The World’s Advanced Savings Project (aka- the WASP), has made full-sized homes out of mud and clay using the world’s largest 3D printer [2].
Building with earth dates back millennia, but today it is being combined with modern digital fabrication techniques in order to supply widespread housing in poverty-stricken areas. The mud houses are constructed using a process called biomimicry, which draws inspiration from the solutions that are already available in nature. Large, delta-style 3D printers then manufacture habitable homes out of the materials available in the surrounding environment.
One of WASP’s projects is called Gaia, an affordable tiny home that’s been printed out of mud using a new “infinity 3D printer”, called the Crane Wasp.
Read: Want to double world food production? Return the land to small farmers.
The Crane Wasp has been developed specifically to print large-scale structures out of materials found in its immediate vicinity, which the company calls “zero-kilometer architecture”. It is easy to assemble and disassemble, and multiple printers can be set up in a modular fashion by adding more traverse and printer arms in order to build larger structures, or multiple structures if needed.
The company says that this means that it is unnecessary to cover the entire area involved in the construction with the printing area of the cranes because they can be reconfigured depending on the growth and shape of the building.
“More WASP Cranes, when working together, have a potentially infinite printing area and can be set by the on-site operators following the evolution of the architectural project.” [3]
Gaia was printed in only ten days out of locally sourced soil, rice husks, and straw, and only cost 1 035 dollars for the extra materials required, including windows, doors, thermo-acoustic insulation, fixtures, and protective coatings.
Wasp partnered with Rice House, an organization that focuses on the enhancement of waste from rice cultivation, in order to create Gaia. The compound used to build the structure was 25 percent soil, (30 percent clay, 40 percent silt and 30 percent sand) which was taken from the site, 40 percent straw chopped rice, 25 percent rice husk, and ten percent hydraulic lime [3].
Read: Seasteading – Would you move?
About Wasp
WASP is an Italian company that is a pioneer in the world of 3D printing with mud. All of the company’s projects are one hundred percent self-financed, and the revenue from the sale of their printers gets reinvested into research and development for future projects.
The company’s goal is to produce zero-mile homes, using only materials found in the surrounding area. The company describes their dream on their website:
“Print a healthy, beautiful and human-scale home with a cost that tends to be null.” [4]
The company says that earth is available everywhere, it is cheap, and it is easily malleable. When combined with other “zero-mile” local materials, buildings can be printed that last, that are structurally sound, and that do not leave ruins behind once they are no longer in use.
“The possibility of a home for all is an essential building block to the creation of a horizon of equality and meritocracy, shared prosperity, the horizon toward which WASP projects converge.” [4]
Read: Austin Is Getting a Village of 3D-Printed Affordable Homes—and They Look Incredible
Plans for the Future
Wasp’s long-term goal is to create an entire “technological village” using their 3D printing system. The village, which is already underway, will be located in Massa Lombarda, Italy, and will function in a circular, self-sufficient economy wherein residents will grow their own food, and use 3D printing to make their own products, tools, and furniture.
As the company website says:


theheartysoul--2020-08-06--Spectacular Cannabis Bonsai Trees And How To Grow Them

People have been growing different types of bonsai trees for thousands of years , but did you know that you can grow cannabis bonsai trees ?
That ’ s right , the art of bonsai tree growing plus the science of marijuana growing have come together in this adorable decorative and functional little plant .
For starters , a bonsai tree is not actually a type of tree , it is a method of growing .
This is an important piece of knowledge to understand how something like a cannabis bonsai is even possible .
( 1 ) When you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is referring to is growing a plant ( such as a tree ) that looks just like a regular version , just miniature .
This practice originated in China and Japan and requires a careful grooming technique to have it remain small .
You can use nearly any tree type , nothing special required .
( 1 ) The word bonsai is actually Japanese for “ planted in a container ” .
When you grow the tree in a small pot , it limits how large the root system can become , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to store nutrients .
This limited capacity is what prevents the tree from growing up large .
( 1 ) The best types of trees for bonsai have ( 1 ) : • Leaves that can be reduced in size Growing them requires patience , care , pruning , branch wiring , and a lot of time and attention given to the plant .
Your efforts are wonderfully rewarded , however , when you have a beautiful little tree in your home .
How to Grow a Cannabis Bonsai Tree from Scratch Growing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procedure as any other bonsai tree .
You will need ( 1 ) : Once you have gathered your necessary materials , follow these steps .
Drill several wire-sized holes in all sides of your pot .
These holes will be where you will be running the wire that will be suspending your branches in various directions .
( 1 ) In order for the marijuana plant to grow in such a way so that it looks like a bonsai is to plant the wooden stake next to your plant ’ s trunk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make your plant grow in whichever direction you ’ d like .
( 1 ) Be sure to press gently as you place your stake next to the plant ’ s trunk to avoid damaging the roots .
Then gently wrap the trunk around the stake and use the wire to tie it to the nearest hole in the pot .
Do not tie it too tightly , or you will prevent the trunk from expanding as it grows .
( 1 ) This is done in the same manner as you did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve chosen what direction you want a plant to grow in , use the wire to tie it to the nearest hole in the pot .
As always , leave growing room for your branches , unless you want them to grow in a more horizontal fashion , in which you will have to tie them with a bit more force .
( 1 ) As your cannabis bonsai grows it will develop many different branches .
You will want to prune off some of these branches for several reasons ( 1 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look ” of the plant • Allow for better airflow through the branches • Prevent humidity within the plant , which leads to mold growth Be careful to only prune new growth branches .
If you prune more mature branches you will cause a larger wound and traumatize the plant , which will slow its growth as it uses more energy to heal .
( 1 ) In the flowering stage , the plant will produce white buds .
Trim off the buds and leave them in a well-ventilated room to dry .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ from their stem you will move onto the curing phase .
( 1 ) Put your buds in an air-tight glass jar and store them in a dark , dry place .
Check on your jars frequently to ensure there is no humidity buildup .
If you notice moisture inside the jars , take the lid off and allow them to air out before putting it back on again .
( 1 ) Eventually , the buds will become half-dry with just the trichomes remaining sticky .
You are now ready to begin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) Read : Cannabis and the Entourage Effect : Why Cannabis Can ’ t Always Be Reduced to Just THC How to Keep Your Tree Going Though your budless bonsai will still be lovely , if you want to keep the tree producing , follow these steps ( 1 ) : • Remove only the top third of the plant when it is ready to be cut .
This is where all of the large buds are .
• Extensively trim the central third of the plant , removing all old yellow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the bottom third of the tree .
These little buds are what will start the plant ’ s regeneration process .
• Give your bonsai 18 hours or more of light and a large amount of nitrogen to move it into the vegetative stage ( an important phase in the plant ’ s cycle ) .
In this phase , the tree will not need as much water .
Check it regularly and only water it when the soil feels dry .
Be aware that over time , the marijuana buds will @ @ @ @ @ @ @

People have been growing different types of bonsai trees for thousands of years, but did you know that you can grow cannabis bonsai trees? That’s right, the art of bonsai tree growing plus the science of marijuana growing have come together in this adorable decorative and functional little plant.
What is a Bonsai Tree?
For starters, a bonsai tree is not actually a type of tree, it is a method of growing. This is an important piece of knowledge to understand how something like a cannabis bonsai is even possible.
When you hear “bonsai” what it actually is referring to is growing a plant (such as a tree) that looks just like a regular version, just miniature. This practice originated in China and Japan and requires a careful grooming technique to have it remain small. You can use nearly any tree type, nothing special required.
The word bonsai is actually Japanese for “planted in a container”. When you grow the tree in a small pot, it limits how large the root system can become, which directly impacts the tree’s ability to store nutrients. This limited capacity is what prevents the tree from growing up large.
The best types of trees for bonsai have:
A woody trunk
Smaller leaves, or
Leaves that can be reduced in size
Growing them requires patience, care, pruning, branch wiring, and a lot of time and attention given to the plant. Your efforts are wonderfully rewarded, however, when you have a beautiful little tree in your home.
How to Grow a Cannabis Bonsai Tree from Scratch
Growing a cannabis bonsai is just the same procedure as any other bonsai tree.
You will need:
A young potted marijuana plant
Electric drill
Gardening wire
Wooden stake
Once you have gathered your necessary materials, follow these steps.
Step 1: Drill the Pot
Drill several wire-sized holes in all sides of your pot. These holes will be where you will be running the wire that will be suspending your branches in various directions.
Step 2: Trunk Training
In order for the marijuana plant to grow in such a way so that it looks like a bonsai is to plant the wooden stake next to your plant’s trunk. You can use the stake to make your plant grow in whichever direction you’d like. (1)
Be sure to press gently as you place your stake next to the plant’s trunk to avoid damaging the roots. Then gently wrap the trunk around the stake and use the wire to tie it to the nearest hole in the pot. Do not tie it too tightly, or you will prevent the trunk from expanding as it grows.
Step 3: Branch Training
This is done in the same manner as you did for your trunk. Once you’ve chosen what direction you want a plant to grow in, use the wire to tie it to the nearest hole in the pot. As always, leave growing room for your branches, unless you want them to grow in a more horizontal fashion, in which you will have to tie them with a bit more force. (1)
Step 4: Pruning
As your cannabis bonsai grows it will develop many different branches. You will want to prune off some of these branches for several reasons:
To preserve the bonsai “look” of the plant
Allow for better airflow through the branches
Prevent humidity within the plant, which leads to mold growth
Be careful to only prune new growth branches. If you prune more mature branches you will cause a larger wound and traumatize the plant, which will slow its growth as it uses more energy to heal.
Step 5: Harvest
In the flowering stage, the plant will produce white buds. Trim off the buds and leave them in a well-ventilated room to dry.
Once they separate easily from their stem you will move onto the curing phase.
Step 6: Curing
Put your buds in an air-tight glass jar and store them in a dark, dry place. Check on your jars frequently to ensure there is no humidity buildup. If you notice moisture inside the jars, take the lid off and allow them to air out before putting it back on again.
Eventually, the buds will become half-dry with just the trichomes remaining sticky. You are now ready to begin to pull off your product.
How to Keep Your Tree Going
Though your budless bonsai will still be lovely, if you want to keep the tree producing, follow these steps (1):
Remove only the top third of the plant when it is ready to be cut. This is where all of the large buds are. Extensively trim the central third of the plant, removing all old yellow leaves. Leave the small buds on the bottom third of the tree. These little buds are what will start the plant’s regeneration process. Give your bonsai 18 hours or more of light and a large amount of nitrogen to move it into the vegetative stage (an important phase in the plant’s cycle).
In this phase, the tree will not need as much water. Check it regularly and only water it when the soil feels dry. Be aware that over time, the marijuana buds will become less potent.
Happy cannabis bonsai growing!
Keep Reading: Cannabis-Based Antibiotics Could Be Available Within Five Years


theheartysoul--2020-08-06--Hundreds of nuns trained in Kung Fu biked the Himalayas to oppose human trafficking

Throughout history , individuals and groups have demonstrated a remarkable amount of strength , determination , and resiliency when fighting for something they believe in .
While all of these stories are inspiring , some of them are so incredible they are worth telling two or three times over .
One of these stories is of an extraordinary group known as the Kung Fu Nuns , who in 2016 biked thousands of kilometers to raise awareness about human trafficking in Nepal .
In 2016 , five hundred nuns from the Buddhist sect called the Drukpa Order completed a four thousand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the city of Leh in India .
They were inspired to do the ride while doing relief work in Nepal after earthquakes in 2015 , when they heard that girls from poor families were being sold because their families could no longer afford to keep them .
Jigme explained that the bike trek demonstrated that women have power and strength like men .
Women in South Asia face a number of threats , despite having female leaders and a culture that reveres motherhood and worships female deities , including honor killings in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ child marriage in Nepal .
Change is happening , but it is slow , and it requires groups like the Kung Fu Nuns to raise awareness and call upon authorities to improve the lives of women .
Read : Team of Retired U.S Navy Seals and Police Officers Are Rescuing Children from Trafficking Who Are the Kung Fu Nuns ?
This special group of women got their name because of their training in martial arts .
They are led by the Gyalwang Drukpa , who is the leader of the Drukpa order , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to become an advocate for gender equality .
Gyalwang Drukpa gave the nuns leadership roles as well as Kung Fu classes after the women faced harassment and violence from monks who did not support the changing power dynamics .
His progressive attitude has caused the number of Drukpa nuns to grow exponentially over the last several years , from just thirty twelve years ago , to over five hundred Kung Fu Nuns today .
The 2016 ride was not the first time these nuns had made this challenging bike journey .
They had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , each time meeting local people , government officials , and religious leaders , with the goal of spreading messages of gender equality , peaceful co-existence , and respect for the environment .
During these bike trips , in which they continue in all types of weather sleeping in the open air , they also deliver food to the poor and help villagers get medical care .
Read : This Superhero Dad Has Rescued Over 1,600 Kids From Sex Trafficking The nuns believe their efforts are paying off and that attitudes are beginning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lhamo said that most people assume they are boys when they see them on their bikes , and are then shocked to find out that not only are they girls , but they are Buddhist nuns .
South Asia is one of the fastest-growing areas in the world for human trafficking , where gangs trick impovershed villagers into bonded labor , or rent them out to work as slaves in homes , restaurants , shops , and hotels .
Many women and girls are sold into brothels .
Post-disaster trafficking has become increasingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of global warming has caused an increase in extreme events like earthquakes .
These disasters leave local people in a much more vulnerable position , when the breakdown of social institutions create difficulties securing food and supplies .
This often leaves women and children in danger of kidnapping , sexual exploitation , and trafficking .
This is what happened in 2015 , after twin earthquakes left almost nine thousand people dead hundreds of thousands of families homeless , and many without any means of income .
This perfect storm of events led to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trafficked .
According to the nuns , the earthquakes were a turning point for them , and they felt that simply travelling to disaster-stricken areas with food was no longer enough .
Jigme Konchok Lhamo explained that actions speak louder than words , and that they have to go out and act on the words that they pray .
To learn more about the Drukpa Nuns aka “ Kung Fu Nuns ” , visit their website .
Keep Reading : Flight Attendant Trusted Her Gut and Rescued a Teenage Girl from Human Trafficking

Throughout history, individuals and groups have demonstrated a remarkable amount of strength, determination, and resiliency when fighting for something they believe in. While all of these stories are inspiring, some of them are so incredible they are worth telling two or three times over. One of these stories is of an extraordinary group known as the Kung Fu Nuns, who in 2016 biked thousands of kilometers to raise awareness about human trafficking in Nepal.
The 2016 Ride
In 2016, five hundred nuns from the Buddhist sect called the Drukpa Order completed a four thousand kilometer bicycle trek from Kathmandu in Nepal to the city of Leh in India.
They were inspired to do the ride while doing relief work in Nepal after earthquakes in 2015, when they heard that girls from poor families were being sold because their families could no longer afford to keep them.
“We wanted to do something to change this attitude that girls are less than boys and that it’s okay to sell them,” said 22-year-old nun Jigme Konchok Lhamo [1].
Jigme explained that the bike trek demonstrated that women have power and strength like men.
Women in South Asia face a number of threats, despite having female leaders and a culture that reveres motherhood and worships female deities, including honor killings in Pakistan, feticide in India, and child marriage in Nepal.
Change is happening, but it is slow, and it requires groups like the Kung Fu Nuns to raise awareness and call upon authorities to improve the lives of women.
Read: Team of Retired U.S Navy Seals and Police Officers Are Rescuing Children from Trafficking
Who Are the Kung Fu Nuns?
This special group of women got their name because of their training in martial arts. They are led by the Gyalwang Drukpa, who is the leader of the Drukpa order, who was inspired by his own mother to become an advocate for gender equality.
“Traditionally Buddhist nuns are treated very differently from monks,” explained Carrie Lee, president of Live to Love International, a charity which works with the Drukpa nuns to support marginalized Himalayan communities. “They cook and clean and are not allowed to exercise. But his Holiness thought this was nonsense and decided to buck the trend” [1].
Gyalwang Drukpa gave the nuns leadership roles as well as Kung Fu classes after the women faced harassment and violence from monks who did not support the changing power dynamics. His progressive attitude has caused the number of Drukpa nuns to grow exponentially over the last several years, from just thirty twelve years ago, to over five hundred Kung Fu Nuns today.
The 2016 ride was not the first time these nuns had made this challenging bike journey. They had already done a similar ride three times, each time meeting local people, government officials, and religious leaders, with the goal of spreading messages of gender equality, peaceful co-existence, and respect for the environment.
During these bike trips, in which they continue in all types of weather sleeping in the open air, they also deliver food to the poor and help villagers get medical care.
Read: This Superhero Dad Has Rescued Over 1,600 Kids From Sex Trafficking
Creating Change Through Action
The nuns believe their efforts are paying off and that attitudes are beginning to change. 18-year-old nun Jigme Wangchuk Lhamo said that most people assume they are boys when they see them on their bikes, and are then shocked to find out that not only are they girls, but they are Buddhist nuns.
“I think this helps change their attitudes about women and maybe value them as equals.,” she said [1].
South Asia is one of the fastest-growing areas in the world for human trafficking, where gangs trick impovershed villagers into bonded labor, or rent them out to work as slaves in homes, restaurants, shops, and hotels. Many women and girls are sold into brothels.
Post-Disaster Trafficking
Post-disaster trafficking has become increasingly common in South Asia as the effects of global warming has caused an increase in extreme events like earthquakes. These disasters leave local people in a much more vulnerable position, when the breakdown of social institutions create difficulties securing food and supplies. This often leaves women and children in danger of kidnapping, sexual exploitation, and trafficking.
This is what happened in 2015, after twin earthquakes left almost nine thousand people dead hundreds of thousands of families homeless, and many without any means of income. This perfect storm of events led to an increase in children and women being trafficked.
According to the nuns, the earthquakes were a turning point for them, and they felt that simply travelling to disaster-stricken areas with food was no longer enough. Jigme Konchok Lhamo explained that actions speak louder than words, and that they have to go out and act on the words that they pray.
“People think that because we are nuns, we are supposed to stay in the temples and pray all the time. But praying is not enough,” she said [1].
To learn more about the Drukpa Nuns aka “Kung Fu Nuns”, visit their website.
Keep Reading: Flight Attendant Trusted Her Gut and Rescued a Teenage Girl from Human Trafficking


theheartysoul--2020-08-06--Johnny Cash Would Wheel To Sing To Wife Every Half Hour When She Was In A Coma

Many of us dream of having that magical romance , that long-lasting steadfast love to have with us for the rest of our lives .
A relationship like that , however , can be extraordinarily difficult to find , and most of us have to go through a series of heartbreaks and mistakes before we find it- if we ever do .
Celebrity relationships can be even more fleeting than most with unions beginning and ending seemingly every day .
For this reason , when a celebrity couple manages to stay together and remain hopelessly in love for their entire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like no other couple out there .
There is no better example of one of these rare couples than the marriage between Johnny Cash and June Carter .
Johnny Cash and June Carter were arguably the most iconic couple in country music history .
The pair were allegedly introduced by none other than Elvis Presley and were married 1968 .
Unlike the majority of celebrity marriages , they remained together for the next forty years , until they both passed away in 2003 [ 1 ] .
Throughout both of their careers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their love for each other , and the love letter that Johnny wrote to June on her 65th birthday was voted the greatest love letter of all time [ 2 ] .
Johnny Cash described their love as unconditional , and that the love between them was “ the real thing ” .
In the later years of their lives , Cash had experienced declining health and was in a wheelchair .
It was Carter to go first , however , when complications due to heart surgery caused the 73-year-old to slip into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cash , who was 71 , spoke with her , sang songs , and read psalms to her every thirty minutes , in hopes that it would heal her .
Carter did not make it , and a grief-stricken Cash began to deteriorate even more .
According to his daughter , Cash would sob for her every day , and would even pick up the phone and talk to her as if she was on the other end of the line .
A few months later , the country legend died of respiratory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pairs unwavering love continues to inspire people today [ 1 ] .
What makes a successful partnership between two people ?
Is it being friends with your spouse above anything else ?
Planning regular date nights with your significant other ?
Or maybe smoking weed with your partner ?
There are thousands upon thousands of videos , articles , and books out there filled with advice about how to have a successful union with another .
Countless interviews have been done with other successful celebrity couples as well as ordinary couples whose marriages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and even divorcees who wish they could ’ ve done things differently .
According to psychologists , there are several factors that predict a healthy , successful union between two people , and they can be broken down into three categories : Historical factors , predisposing factors , and process factors .
This includes things like growing up in a happy , functional family with parents who provide a good marital and sexual example for their children , as well as having two parents who both functioned well psychologically .
Many people don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have affected them , but research has shown again and again that individuals who grew up with a good example of what a functional and happy partnership looks like are more likely to have one themselves one day [ 3 ] .
Couples who are at least 21 and not pregnant when they are married , and who decide to get married not for negative reasons like fear of loneliness , parental or peer pressure , or to rescue a floundering life , are more likely to have a successful relationship .
Other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ union include knowing your partner for at least one year before marrying them , having commonalities in terms of socio-economic status , race , religion , and education , and discussing life organization issues like work , money , children , and where you ’ re going to live .
Couples who have the support of family and friends tend to be more successful , and couples who share all important life information with each other and who don ’ t have any major secrets between them are more likely to last [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how the couple operates within the relationship .
It is important for two people to have a mutually agreed upon style for handling differences and conflicts , and that both people are able to maintain positive and realistic personal and marital expectations .
A marital bond built on respect , trust , and intimacy that grows stronger over the first two years of marriage is also more likely to continue than those that struggle in the first years [ 3 ] .
You will often hear people say “ marriage takes work ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the work involved in marriage is not like the work involved with doing chores or other tasks that you don ’ t particularly enjoy .
The work that goes into a happy , functional , and fulfilling marriage should , for the most part , be fun and fulfilling .
The following is a list of traits that have been rated as important for a successful union with another : you can not be happy in a relationship without first being happy with yourself .
It is important for both people in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hobbies outside of their partnership .
Being a good listener is extremely important , and you can ’ t have a good relationship without creating a platform for healthy conversation .
Listening is a key component to a productive conversation .
Just because you love someone doesn ’ t mean you have to agree on everything .
The important thing is that each person respects the point of view of the other , and can even maintain a sense of humor over their points of contention .
everybody understands love in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different from their partner .
Some people need to hear words of affirmation , some need touch , some like gifts , and some need to see acts of love .
The reality is , most people need two or three things from that list .
Make sure you know what your partner needs from you in order to feel secure in the relationship and be sure to give it to them .
Take responsibility : Neither of you is going to be perfect all the time .
The important thing is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own it and apologize for it .
It ’ s easy to fall into patterns or ruts when you become comfortable with someone , so it ’ s important to continue to put effort into your relationship .
That could mean date nights , surprise gifts , or anything that lets the other person know you love them .
We are sold the idea of “ happy ever after ” , and unfortunately that just isn ’ t the case .
Even the best unions will go through rough patches , but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take each other for granted , to remind yourself why you fell in love with that person in the first place , and to communicate openly with each other in order to work through the hard times [ 4 ] .
Relationships are not always easy , but the right one can last a lifetime and bring endless joy and love into your life .
Couples like Johnny Cash and June Carter are a beautiful inspiration , and remind us that true love can happen- but not without a little effort .

Many of us dream of having that magical romance, that long-lasting steadfast love to have with us for the rest of our lives. A relationship like that, however, can be extraordinarily difficult to find, and most of us have to go through a series of heartbreaks and mistakes before we find it- if we ever do.
Celebrity relationships can be even more fleeting than most with unions beginning and ending seemingly every day.
For this reason, when a celebrity couple manages to stay together and remain hopelessly in love for their entire lives, they are celebrated and revered like no other couple out there.
There is no better example of one of these rare couples than the marriage between Johnny Cash and June Carter.
A Love Story for the Ages
Johnny Cash and June Carter were arguably the most iconic couple in country music history. The pair were allegedly introduced by none other than Elvis Presley and were married 1968. Unlike the majority of celebrity marriages, they remained together for the next forty years, until they both passed away in 2003 [1].
Throughout both of their careers, much of their music was inspired by their love for each other, and the love letter that Johnny wrote to June on her 65th birthday was voted the greatest love letter of all time [2].
In the letter Cash wrote:
“You’re the object of my desire, the #1 earthly reason for my existence. I love you very much. We got old and got used to each other. We think alike. We read each others [sic] minds. We know what the other wants without asking. Sometimes we irritate each other a little bit. Maybe sometimes we take each other for granted. But once in a while, like today, I meditate on it and realize how lucky I am to share my life with the greatest woman I ever met.” [1]
Johnny Cash described their love as unconditional, and that the love between them was “the real thing”.
“She loves me in spite of everything, in spite of myself,” the singer once said. “She has saved my life more than once. She’s always been there with her love, and it has certainly made me forget the pain for a long time, many times. When it gets dark and everybody’s gone home and the lights are turned off, it’s just me and her.”
Read: Robert De Niro’s Six Biracial Children Have Changed How He Views The World
Their Later Years
In the later years of their lives, Cash had experienced declining health and was in a wheelchair. It was Carter to go first, however, when complications due to heart surgery caused the 73-year-old to slip into a coma.
During that time, Cash, who was 71, spoke with her, sang songs, and read psalms to her every thirty minutes, in hopes that it would heal her. Carter did not make it, and a grief-stricken Cash began to deteriorate even more.
According to his daughter, Cash would sob for her every day, and would even pick up the phone and talk to her as if she was on the other end of the line. A few months later, the country legend died of respiratory failure, but the legacy of the pairs unwavering love continues to inspire people today [1].
What Makes a Successful Union?
What makes a successful partnership between two people? Is it being friends with your spouse above anything else? Planning regular date nights with your significant other? Or maybe smoking weed with your partner?
There are thousands upon thousands of videos, articles, and books out there filled with advice about how to have a successful union with another. Countless interviews have been done with other successful celebrity couples as well as ordinary couples whose marriages have stood the test of time, and even divorcees who wish they could’ve done things differently.
According to psychologists, there are several factors that predict a healthy, successful union between two people, and they can be broken down into three categories: Historical factors, predisposing factors, and process factors.
Historical Factors
This includes things like growing up in a happy, functional family with parents who provide a good marital and sexual example for their children, as well as having two parents who both functioned well psychologically.
Many people don’t consider how their childhoods might have affected them, but research has shown again and again that individuals who grew up with a good example of what a functional and happy partnership looks like are more likely to have one themselves one day [3].
Predisposing Factors
Couples who are at least 21 and not pregnant when they are married, and who decide to get married not for negative reasons like fear of loneliness, parental or peer pressure, or to rescue a floundering life, are more likely to have a successful relationship.
Other predisposing factors that contribute to a successful union include knowing your partner for at least one year before marrying them, having commonalities in terms of socio-economic status, race, religion, and education, and discussing life organization issues like work, money, children, and where you’re going to live.
Couples who have the support of family and friends tend to be more successful, and couples who share all-important life information with each other and who don’t have any major secrets between them are more likely to last [3].
Process Factors
Process factors refer to how the couple operates within the relationship. It is important for two people to have a mutually agreed-upon style for handling differences and conflicts, and that both people are able to maintain positive and realistic personal and marital expectations.
A marital bond built on respect, trust, and intimacy that grows stronger over the first two years of marriage is also more likely to continue than those that struggle in the first years [3].
You will often hear people say “marriage takes work”, and while this is true, the work involved in marriage is not like the work involved with doing chores or other tasks that you don’t particularly enjoy. The work that goes into a happy, functional, and fulfilling marriage should, for the most part, be fun and fulfilling.
Read: Jeff Bridges Was Kept Riveted by Wife’s Beauty Although She Had Facial Injuries When They Met
Traits of a Successful Union
The following is a list of traits that have been rated as important for a successful union with another:
1. Independence
you cannot be happy in a relationship without first being happy with yourself. It is important for both people in the relationship to continue developing their own interests and hobbies outside of their partnership.
2. Listening
Being a good listener is extremely important, and you can’t have a good relationship without creating a platform for healthy conversation. Listening is a key component to a productive conversation.
3. Agree to disagree
Just because you love someone doesn’t mean you have to agree on everything. The important thing is that each person respects the point of view of the other, and can even maintain a sense of humor over their points of contention.
4. Know each other’s “love language”
everybody understands love in a slightly different way, and needs something different from their partner. Some people need to hear words of affirmation, some need touch, some like gifts, and some need to see acts of love. The reality is, most people need two or three things from that list. Make sure you know what your partner needs from you in order to feel secure in the relationship and be sure to give it to them.
Take responsibility: Neither of you is going to be perfect all the time. The important thing is that when you make a mistake, you own it and apologize for it.
5. Keep romance and intimacy alive
It’s easy to fall into patterns or ruts when you become comfortable with someone, so it’s important to continue to put effort into your relationship. That could mean date nights, surprise gifts, or anything that lets the other person know you love them.
6. Don’t fall into the fantasy
We are sold the idea of “happy ever after”, and unfortunately that just isn’t the case. Even the best unions will go through rough patches, but it is important during those times to not take each other for granted, to remind yourself why you fell in love with that person in the first place, and to communicate openly with each other in order to work through the hard times.
Relationships are not always easy, but the right one can last a lifetime and bring endless joy and love into your life. Couples like Johnny Cash and June Carter are a beautiful inspiration, and remind us that true love can happen- but not without a little effort.
Keep Reading: Kirk Douglas’ Childhood Made Him a Charitable Man Yet None of His Kids Got a Penny from His Fortune
Sources
“‘How lucky I am to spend my life with the greatest woman I ever met’: Johnny Cash’s note to wife June voted greatest love letter of all time (and beats poet John Keats).” Daily Mail. Martha Cliff. February 10, 2015. “What Makes a Happy, Successful Marriage?” Psychology Today. Barry W. McCarthy Ph.D. July 13, 2012
This article originally appeared on The Hearty Soul in August 2020 and has been published here with permission.


theheartysoul--2020-08-06--Ireland is Creating the Largest Grove of Redwoods Outside of California

When you think of a redwood forest , you probably immediately think of California .
That could soon start to change as the Ireland Redwoods Forest grows .
Soon it will be the largest redwood forest outside of the golden state .
The Birr County Gardens in County Offaly in Ireland are growing to become the largest grove of redwood trees outside of California .
The Ireland Redwoods , which began planting in 2017 , are now well on their way to being a beautiful , healthy forest .
( 1 ) Fittingly named Giants Grove , the project was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Earl of Rosse , in partnership with Crann “ Trees for Ireland ” , an organization dedicated to the planting and protection of trees , hedgerows , and woodlands in Ireland .
Giants Grove is a passion project for Lord Rosse , who believes the planting of these trees will benefit people for years to come .
( 1 ) Read : California Man Living Off-Grid Since 1968 ( Property Now Valued At $ 4-6 Million ) One of Ireland ’ s top tourist attractions , the Birr Castle Garden is known for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world .
It ’ s often been praised for having large attractions , including ( 2 ) : • the Great Telescope Leviathan .
It was built in the 1840s and was the largest in the world for 70 years .
Redwoods are a tree that was native to Ireland , so planting Giants Grove is an important step in their restoration .
Planting Ireland redwoods is also important for the preservation of the species because global warming is causing the population of giant redwoods in California to decrease .
Giants Grove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for at least another 1000 years .
( 2 ) Read : Ancient tree with record of Earth ’ s magnetic field reversal in its rings discovered How is the Project Going So far , Giants Grove has been a success .
Though it will take many years for the trees to grow to their full height , by all accounts the grove is doing well .
Several steps have been taken to ensure the long term success of the trees ( 4 ) : • They are underplanted by indigenous Irish trees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and birch • The site is growing naturally , allowing thistles and weeds to cover the ground This natural growing style is crucial for the protection of the redwoods .
It allows for important insects , bees , and other wildlife to thrive in the environment , and the groundcover protects the trees from other predators .
( 4 ) How You Can Help the Project If you are a tree lover and want to help keep Giants Grove , the Ireland Redwoods , and Redwoods around the world a thriving species @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You can sponsor a tree and dedicate it to a family member or loved one and watch that tree grow .
( 3 ) The cost is €500 ( 594 USD ) for a space in the grove .
You are then given GPS coordinates for your spot and a certificate once the site has been mapped .
You will also receive a one-year membership to Crann – Trees of Ireland , which includes a subscription to their magazine .
( 3 ) Visit their webpage to learn more about sponsoring an Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our society , and this grove will without a doubt help to keep this beautiful species of tree alive and well for generations to come .
Keep Reading : This Man Is Cloning Old-Growth Redwoods and Planting Them in Safe Places

When you think of a redwood forest, you probably immediately think of California. That could soon start to change as the Ireland Redwoods Forest grows. Soon it will be the largest redwood forest outside of the golden state.
The Ireland Redwoods
The Birr County Gardens in County Offaly in Ireland are growing to become the largest grove of redwood trees outside of California. The Ireland Redwoods, which began planting in 2017, are now well on their way to being a beautiful, healthy forest. (1)
Fittingly named Giants Grove, the project was started by Lord Rosse, the Seventh Earl of Rosse, in partnership with Crann “Trees for Ireland”, an organization dedicated to the planting and protection of trees, hedgerows, and woodlands in Ireland. Giants Grove is a passion project for Lord Rosse, who believes the planting of these trees will benefit people for years to come. (1)
“Our grandchildren, their grandchildren, Birr, Ireland and the world will benefit from this magnificent forest grove. These will be the biggest trees in Ireland and the largest collection outside of California.” (1)
Read: California Man Living Off-Grid Since 1968 (Property Now Valued At $4-6 Million)
Birr Castle Gardens
One of Ireland’s top tourist attractions, the Birr Castle Garden is known for its collection of trees from all over the world. It’s often been praised for having large attractions, including (2):
the Great Telescope Leviathan. It was built in the 1840s and was the largest in the world for 70 years.
Ireland’s largest treehouse, constructed in 2013.
Redwoods are a tree that was native to Ireland, so planting Giants Grove is an important step in their restoration. Planting Ireland redwoods is also important for the preservation of the species because global warming is causing the population of giant redwoods in California to decrease. Giants Grove is projected to help sustain the population for at least another 1000 years. (2)
Read: Ancient tree with record of Earth’s magnetic field reversal in its rings discovered
How is the Project Going
So far, Giants Grove has been a success. Though it will take many years for the trees to grow to their full height, by all accounts the grove is doing well. Several steps have been taken to ensure the long term success of the trees (4):
Redwoods are spaced 10 meters apart
They are underplanted by indigenous Irish trees such as holly, spindle, rowan, and birch
The site is growing naturally, allowing thistles and weeds to cover the ground
This natural growing style is crucial for the protection of the redwoods. It allows for important insects, bees, and other wildlife to thrive in the environment, and the groundcover protects the trees from other predators. (4)
How You Can Help the Project
If you are a tree lover and want to help keep Giants Grove, the Ireland Redwoods, and Redwoods around the world a thriving species, then you are in luck. You can sponsor a tree and dedicate it to a family member or loved one and watch that tree grow. (3)
The cost is €500 (594 USD) for a space in the grove. You are then given GPS coordinates for your spot and a certificate once the site has been mapped. You will also receive a one-year membership to Crann – Trees of Ireland, which includes a subscription to their magazine. (3)
Visit their webpage to learn more about sponsoring an Ireland redwood.
Trees are an important part of our society, and this grove will without a doubt help to keep this beautiful species of tree alive and well for generations to come.
Keep Reading: This Man Is Cloning Old-Growth Redwoods and Planting Them in Safe Places


theheartysoul--2020-08-07--Bicycle Camper Could Be a Micro RV for Your E-Bike

For many , international travel is currently out of the realm of possibilities .
What ’ s to blame ?
The COVID-19 pandemic of crouse , which is why 2020 has quickly become the year of the road trip .
Traveling across the country in your own vehicle , stopping at campsites , and enjoying the great outdoors is perhaps the safest way to vacation this summer , and there is more than one way to do it .
The most common choice for a trip such as this is a camper van or trailer of some sort , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel ?
If you ’ ve ever thought about biking across the country but couldn ’ t figure out how to make it logistically possible , there ’ s a new solution out there and it ’ s just for you .
The bicycle camper allows you to pedal your way from state to state while providing you with a comfortable place to sleep , dine , and even entertain .
Read : A Couple Spend $ 3K to Turn an Old RV Into a Cozy Home For Five The Wide Path Bike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a travel camper without the huge environmental footprint .
It is a bike-towable micro camper that can be pulled by a regular bike or an e-bike .
According to the Wide Path website , the bike camper is more than just a mini RV : They describe the camper as durable , collapsable , lightweight , and spacious .
It ’ s unique shape and hardshell exterior makes it feel both cozy and secure , and provides a safe place to store your belongings .
When open , the trailer 110 inches long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inches high on the inside , with a 78-inch by 35-inch sleeping area .
Once it is folded up , however , the camper ’ s length is cut nearly in half , and measures a mere 59 inches long [ 2 ] .
It ’ s small and compact size allows it to be stored easily in the off-season without taking up too much space , and is what makes it fairly easy to tow on a bicycle .
It provides a unique opportunity for a different type of road trip , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hang out with friends .
The Wide Path Bike Camper doesn ’ t come cheap , however , and retails at 4,200 dollars .
For an additional cost , you can add an optional package that includes a solar panel , battery , LED lights , and a fan , as well as additional upgrades like a kitchen or outdoor eating packages [ 2 ] .
Things to Think About Before You Hit the Road Before you jump in and ride away with your mini camper , there are a few important considerations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them being your biking ability and strength .
While it is very compact , the camper still has an empty weight of 88 pounds , which may be heavy for some people to pull over long distances .
That weight , of course , does not include the weight of whatever you choose to put inside the camper , which can really start to add up .
Even with the empty weight , learning how to ride down hills with it or in windy conditions may be a challenge , one that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added on .
As previously mentioned , there is an opportunity to pair the trailer with an adequately powered e-bike , however you will need to ensure that it is matched correctly in terms of battery capacity and motor size , and that it is geared correctly to make sure it is capable of hauling the bicycle camper [ 2 ] .
Read : Pandemic Leads To Urban Exodus As Families Turn To Self-Reliance And Off-The-Grid Living If you don ’ t feel as though your biking skills are strong enough to pull @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other options available to you .
The Homie is a small car camper and is light enough to be towed by a smaller vehicle or regular-sized car .
It is available in two widths , includes a solar package , and can be towed by any car with a towbar [ 3 ] .
Their third option is the Ape Camper , which is designed to be towed by a Piaggio Ape50 or any small cargo vehicle [ 4 ] .
So if you ’ re itching for an adventure this summer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , perhaps the great American road trip- with a bit of a twist- is just what you ’ ve been waiting for .
Keep Reading : This New Camper Triples in Size With the Push of a Button

For many, international travel is currently out of the realm of possibilities. What’s to blame? The COVID-19 pandemic of crouse, which is why 2020 has quickly become the year of the road trip. Traveling across the country in your own vehicle, stopping at campsites, and enjoying the great outdoors is perhaps the safest way to vacation this summer, and there is more than one way to do it.
The most common choice for a trip such as this is a camper van or trailer of some sort, but have you ever considered other methods of travel? If you’ve ever thought about biking across the country but couldn’t figure out how to make it logistically possible, there’s a new solution out there and it’s just for you.
The bicycle camper allows you to pedal your way from state to state while providing you with a comfortable place to sleep, dine, and even entertain.
Read: A Couple Spend $3K to Turn an Old RV Into a Cozy Home For Five
The Bicycle Camper
The Wide Path Bike Camper provides some of the benefits of a travel camper without the huge environmental footprint. It is a bike-towable micro camper that can be pulled by a regular bike or an e-bike.
According to the Wide Path website, the bike camper is more than just a mini RV:
“[The bike camper is] a mobile house-party easily deployed in urban, suburban, and natural spaces.”
They describe the camper as durable, collapsable, lightweight, and spacious. It’s unique shape and hardshell exterior makes it feel both cozy and secure, and provides a safe place to store your belongings.
When open, the trailer 110 inches long, 39 inches wide, and 57 inches high on the inside, with a 78-inch by 35-inch sleeping area. Once it is folded up, however, the camper’s length is cut nearly in half, and measures a mere 59 inches long [2].
It’s small and compact size allows it to be stored easily in the off-season without taking up too much space, and is what makes it fairly easy to tow on a bicycle. It provides a unique opportunity for a different type of road trip, or just a fun little place to hang out with friends.
“Our mobile tiny houses offer instant shelter from the weather, a comfortable bed for up to 2 people, and a convertible space for 4 adults to dine-in, relax, and camp in style.” [1]
The Wide Path Bike Camper doesn’t come cheap, however, and retails at 4,200 dollars. For an additional cost, you can add an optional package that includes a solar panel, battery, LED lights, and a fan, as well as additional upgrades like a kitchen or outdoor eating packages [2].
Things to Think About Before You Hit the Road
Before you jump in and ride away with your mini camper, there are a few important considerations to take into account, one of them being your biking ability and strength. While it is very compact, the camper still has an empty weight of 88 pounds, which may be heavy for some people to pull over long distances.
That weight, of course, does not include the weight of whatever you choose to put inside the camper, which can really start to add up. Even with the empty weight, learning how to ride down hills with it or in windy conditions may be a challenge, one that is exacerbated with another fifty pounds of gear added on.
As previously mentioned, there is an opportunity to pair the trailer with an adequately powered e-bike, however you will need to ensure that it is matched correctly in terms of battery capacity and motor size, and that it is geared correctly to make sure it is capable of hauling the bicycle camper [2].
Alternatives to the Bicycle Camper
If you don’t feel as though your biking skills are strong enough to pull a camper around, Wide Path has other options available to you.
The Homie is a small car camper and is light enough to be towed by a smaller vehicle or regular-sized car. It is available in two widths, includes a solar package, and can be towed by any car with a towbar.
Their third option is the Ape Camper, which is designed to be towed by a Piaggio Ape50 or any small cargo vehicle.
So if you’re itching for an adventure this summer, or your original travel plans were cancelled, perhaps the great American road trip- with a bit of a twist- is just what you’ve been waiting for.


theheartysoul--2020-08-07--Few People Know That Father’s Day Was Created Because Of A Mining Accident In West Virginia During T

Most of us don ’ t remember a time when Father ’ s Day didn ’ t exist , much less know the reason why it began in the first place .
While today it is seen as a celebration of everything that our father and father-figures do for us , its origins are much more somber .
Father ’ s Day in Europe has existed since the 1500s , however , it wasn ’ t honored in America until the 20th century .
The first celebration wasn ’ t really a celebration at all , though – it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fathers lost in the tragic Monongah Mining Disaster that occurred in West Virginia the previous year .
( 1 ) On the morning of December 6 , 1907 , in the mining town of Monongah , a deadly explosion occurred deep in the Fairmont Coal Company ’ s number 6 and number 8 mines .
The blast killed all but four people inside the mine , who later succumbed to their injuries .
Considered to be one of America ’ s greatest mining tragedies , the explosion killed more than 360 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Roughly 1000 children lost their fathers that day , and the entire community was in mourning .
( 1 ) Grace Golden Clayton , a woman who lived in the town , had also recently lost her father .
She understood the deep sorrow that the children of these men were feeling .
Naturally , she wanted to do something to not only help ease her pain but the children who lost their fathers that day .
( 1 ) On July 5th of that summer , she convinced the pastor of her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honor fathers , in hopes that it would bring those grieving some solace .
That service took place at what is now the United Methodist Church in Fairmont , West Virginia .
It was a one-time celebration , however , and didn ’ t extend beyond the Fairmont Community .
( 1 ) Mother ’ s Day celebrations in America began much earlier .
They started as part of a reconciliation campaign in West Virginia in the 1860s by activist Ann Reeves Jarvis .
The celebration brought together mothers of both Confederate and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day became a commercial holiday in 1908 when Jarvis ’ daughter Anna wanted to honor her mother by making the day a national holiday .
The John Wanamaker Department Store in Philadelphia sponsored a special Mother ’ s Day service in their auditorium .
( 2 ) Other retailers saw huge potential for profit with Mother ’ s Day , and in 1909 45 states observed the day .
Finally , in 1914 , President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May a holiday in honor of America ’ s mothers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ first father ’ s day sermon in West Virginia , Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane , Washington began campaigning to make Father ’ s Day a recognized holiday as well .
She was one of six children who were raised by their father after their mother passed away , and she wanted a way to honor her own father who essentially had to play both roles .
( 2 ) She went to the YMCA , local churches and shops , as well as government officials to gather support for her idea .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ state-wide celebration of Father ’ s Day happened in Washington State on June 19 , 1910 .
( 2 ) The holiday spread much slower than Mother ’ s Day , however , because fathers weren ’ t seen to have the same sentimental impact as mothers in the eyes of retailers .
Despite that , however , by 1924 President Calvin Coolidge encouraged all states ’ governments to observe Father ’ s Day .
In 1972 , President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation that made Father ’ s Day a federal holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is celebrated on the third Sunday of June every year .
( 2 ) Essentially , what started out as a day to honor fathers who have been lost is now a day to celebrate all fathers and father-figures .
This includes step-dads , adopted dads , foster dads , grandfathers who raise their grandkids , and any other person in your life who fills that role in your life .
Thank you to all the amazing fathers out there – past and present – who help to raise our future generations .
@ @ @ @ @

Few People Know That Father’s Day Was Created Because Of A Mining Accident In West Virginia During The 1900s
Most of us don’t remember a time when Father’s Day didn’t exist, much less know the reason why it began in the first place. While today it is seen as a celebration of everything that our father and father-figures do for us, its origins are much more somber.
The Tragic Incident that Started Father’s Day
Father’s Day in Europe has existed since the 1500s, however, it wasn’t honored in America until the 20th century. The first celebration wasn’t really a celebration at all, though – it was a church service to honor all of the fathers lost in the tragic Monongah Mining Disaster that occurred in West Virginia the previous year. (1)
The Monongah Mining Disaster
On the morning of December 6, 1907, in the mining town of Monongah, a deadly explosion occurred deep in the Fairmont Coal Company’s number 6 and number 8 mines. The blast killed all but four people inside the mine, who later succumbed to their injuries.
Considered to be one of America’s greatest mining tragedies, the explosion killed more than 360 people, 250 of whom were fathers. Roughly 1000 children lost their fathers that day, and the entire community was in mourning. (1)
Grace Golden Clayton, a woman who lived in the town, had also recently lost her father. She understood the deep sorrow that the children of these men were feeling. Naturally, she wanted to do something to not only help ease her pain but the children who lost their fathers that day. (1)
On July 5th of that summer, she convinced the pastor of her church to host a special service to honor fathers, in hopes that it would bring those grieving some solace. That service took place at what is now the United Methodist Church in Fairmont, West Virginia. It was a one-time celebration, however, and didn’t extend beyond the Fairmont Community. (1)
Inspired by Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day celebrations in America began much earlier. They started as part of a reconciliation campaign in West Virginia in the 1860s by activist Ann Reeves Jarvis. The celebration brought together mothers of both Confederate and Union soldiers. (2)
The day became a commercial holiday in 1908 when Jarvis’ daughter Anna wanted to honor her mother by making the day a national holiday. The John Wanamaker Department Store in Philadelphia sponsored a special Mother’s Day service in their auditorium. (2)
Other retailers saw huge potential for profit with Mother’s Day, and in 1909 45 states observed the day. Finally, in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May a holiday in honor of America’s mothers. (2)
Father’s Day Slowly Followed Suit
A year after that first father’s day sermon in West Virginia, Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington began campaigning to make Father’s Day a recognized holiday as well. She was one of six children who were raised by their father after their mother passed away, and she wanted a way to honor her own father who essentially had to play both roles. (2)
She went to the YMCA, local churches and shops, as well as government officials to gather support for her idea. She was successful, and the first state-wide celebration of Father’s Day happened in Washington State on June 19, 1910. (2)
The holiday spread much slower than Mother’s Day, however, because fathers weren’t seen to have the same sentimental impact as mothers in the eyes of retailers. Despite that, however, by 1924 President Calvin Coolidge encouraged all states’ governments to observe Father’s Day. In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation that made Father’s Day a federal holiday. (2)
Today, it is celebrated on the third Sunday of June every year. (2)
A New Type of Celebration
Essentially, what started out as a day to honor fathers who have been lost is now a day to celebrate all fathers and father-figures. This includes step-dads, adopted dads, foster dads, grandfathers who raise their grandkids, and any other person in your life who fills that role in your life.
Thank you to all the amazing fathers out there – past and present – who help to raise our future generations. Hats off to you!


theheartysoul--2020-08-07--A ‘Fundamental Shift is Occurring’ as People Flock to Tiny Homes

Over the last several years , tiny homes have been increasing in popularity .
Despite the growing interest , however , they have still remained more or less part of a fringe movement of people who want to escape the confines of materialism , or the “ more is better ” ideals of society .
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit , the attitude toward tiny homes began to shift .
As more and more people have begun thinking about moving away from large metropolitan centers like New York , Los Angeles , and San Francisco in favor of more space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much more appealing alternative .
Dan Dobrowolski has been building tiny homes for several years now and has witnessed the gradually increasing interest during that time .
The COVID-19 pandemic , however , seemingly changed everything overnight .
This interest is not just in the tiny homes themselves , but in communities of tiny homes .
People who would have never considered living in a trailer park prior to the pandemic are suddenly seeing tiny home communities as something else- a new way of living where they actually have more space around them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dobrowolski has been building one of these sought-after communities on a run-down , one-acre mobile home park .
Since the pandemic began , a space in his community has been in such high demand that he will now be tripling the size of the project .
Related : Pandemic Leads To Urban Exodus As Families Turn To Self-Reliance And Off-The-Grid Living So what ’ s the difference between Dobrowolski ’ s tiny home community and a traditional trailer park ?
The first , and perhaps most important distinction between the two is space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as Dobrowolski describes it , units are stacked together like sliced bread , he is careful not to crowd them in .
In fact , there are only ten tiny homes on his site .
He also put a lot of work into native landscaping , and if you want a plot in the community , you have to purchase one of the homes he built in his factory- you can ’ t just bring any trailer .
Dobrowolski says the community has to look and feel a certain way .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this would have been difficult to sell people one , because those who understood and were willing to pay for a tiny home and those who understood trailer parks rarely overlapped .
In today ’ s remote-working , coronavirus world , this has changed .
The first person to move into Dobrowolski ’ s tiny home community , the Escape Tampa Bay Village , was a young man working remotely who was tired of paying rent .
One of Dobrowolski ’ s Escape homes starts at a mere 69 thousand dollars , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month to rent .
If that sounds like a lot to you , consider that in most big cities , 69 thousand dollars won ’ t even get you a parking space .
The Tampa Bay community also features lots of outdoor space and a meeting/working zone in the middle , and when the water starts inevitably rising all over the state , you can simply hook your home up and tow it to higher ground [ 1 ] .
Escape Homes have been designing tiny homes for 25 years .
Their designs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a feeling of openness and space , and typically feature panoramic windows , full kitchens , large bathrooms , large first-floor bedrooms , washers and dryers , and plenty of storage .
Their homes are all temperature controlled , and are designed to withstand extreme climates including heavy snow , as well as extreme cold and heat .
Escape Homes offers several different models to choose from , each one is very affordable , especially when compared to the cost of purchasing a standard home in most areas in the US .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addition of several upgrades and add-ons , still costs less than 200 thousand dollars .
The company includes the following manifesto on their website : Read : Tiny smart home looks like a space ship and can sleep a family of 4 — see inside There are a number of reasons why someone might choose to live in a tiny home : Not only are tiny homes far less expensive than the cost of a typical house , but you also save money in other ways .
Because your living space is so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things like heating and cooling , property taxes , and home maintenance .
Many tiny home-dwellers have also noted that they spend far less on groceries , because since they don ’ t have as much storage space , they can no longer purchase excess items that they don ’ t really need .
When you live in a smaller space , holding on to knick-knacks and other less-necessary items becomes impossible because you simply don ’ t have room for all of it .
This is yet another way to save money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether something is really necessary before you purchase it .
A smaller space means less area that needs to be cleaned , plain and simple .
Tiny homes use less energy and produce less waste , so living in one is benefiting the planet .
Many people who make the switch to living in a tiny home report feeling happier .
This is because they got rid of the “ stuff ” that they didn ’ t need , and focused on what really mattered .
They spend less time on cleaning and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They can engage in hobbies and leisure activities , helping them to feel less stressed and more fulfilled [ 3 ] .
Is a Tiny Home Community for You ?
Of course , there are some drawbacks to living in such small quarters , and having less space certainly presents organizational challenges .
Entertaining also becomes more difficult , since you have less space to house guests , particularly if they are staying overnight .
That being said , many tiny homes are no smaller than some NYC apartments , but they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The landscape of work is changing and offices are moving to permanent remote-working models .
Will you be joining the mass exodus from cities and consider moving into a tiny home of your own ?
Keep Reading : Seniors Are Buying Tiny Homes to Live Their Golden Years Off the Grid

Over the last several years, tiny homes have been increasing in popularity. Despite the growing interest, however, they have still remained more or less part of a fringe movement of people who want to escape the confines of materialism, or the “more is better” ideals of society.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the attitude toward tiny homes began to shift. As more and more people have begun thinking about moving away from large metropolitan centers like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco in favor of more space, the tiny home has become a much more appealing alternative.
The Shift to Tiny Homes
Dan Dobrowolski has been building tiny homes for several years now and has witnessed the gradually increasing interest during that time. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, seemingly changed everything overnight.
“The trend is so strong now for 1) escaping crowded housing and 2) just escaping major metro areas like NYC, LA & SFO, it is almost overwhelming. This is a major shift…we’re seeing this all over the US with buyers,” he said [1].
This interest is not just in the tiny homes themselves, but in communities of tiny homes. People who would have never considered living in a trailer park prior to the pandemic are suddenly seeing tiny home communities as something else- a new way of living where they actually have more space around them, despite living in smaller quarters.
Dobrowolski has been building one of these sought-after communities on a run-down, one-acre mobile home park. Since the pandemic began, a space in his community has been in such high demand that he will now be tripling the size of the project.
“We have never seen anything like this in our business. Demand is up 110% from last year (and last year was a record) and climbing fast…a fundamental shift is occurring.”
Trailer Park Vs. Tiny Home Community
So what’s the difference between Dobrowolski’s tiny home community and a traditional trailer park?
The first, and perhaps most important distinction between the two is space. Unlike a typical trailer park where, as Dobrowolski describes it, units are stacked together like sliced bread, he is careful not to crowd them in. In fact, there are only ten tiny homes on his site.
He also put a lot of work into native landscaping, and if you want a plot in the community, you have to purchase one of the homes he built in his factory- you can’t just bring any trailer. Dobrowolski says the community has to look and feel a certain way.
“You have to be able to breathe,” he explained. “You can do all the infrastructure right and then blow it on the look. it [has to] looks right.” [1]
In the past, tiny home communities like this would have been difficult to sell people one, because those who understood and were willing to pay for a tiny home and those who understood trailer parks rarely overlapped. In today’s remote-working, coronavirus world, this has changed.
The First Customer
The first person to move into Dobrowolski’s tiny home community, the Escape Tampa Bay Village, was a young man working remotely who was tired of paying rent. One of Dobrowolski’s Escape homes starts at a mere 69 thousand dollars, and a parking spot costs 450 dollars per month to rent. If that sounds like a lot to you, consider that in most big cities, 69 thousand dollars won’t even get you a parking space.
The Tampa Bay community also features lots of outdoor space and a meeting/working zone in the middle, and when the water starts inevitably rising all over the state, you can simply hook your home up and tow it to higher ground [1].
Escape Homes
Escape Homes have been designing tiny homes for 25 years. Their designs are all based on light, and a feeling of openness and space, and typically feature panoramic windows, full kitchens, large bathrooms, large first-floor bedrooms, washers and dryers, and plenty of storage.
Their homes are all temperature controlled, and are designed to withstand extreme climates including heavy snow, as well as extreme cold and heat.
Escape Homes offers several different models to choose from, each one is very affordable, especially when compared to the cost of purchasing a standard home in most areas in the US. The most expensive model, even with the addition of several upgrades and add-ons, still costs less than 200 thousand dollars.
The company includes the following manifesto on their website:
“Our designs are based on openness, simplicity of design and space, inspired by the mindset of two great Wisconsinites, Frank Lloyd Wright and Steve Jobs, to not just think different but to live different.” [2]
Read: Tiny smart home looks like a space ship and can sleep a family of 4 — see inside
The Benefits of Tiny Homes
There are a number of reasons why someone might choose to live in a tiny home:
1. Cost
Not only are tiny homes far less expensive than the cost of a typical house, but you also save money in other ways. Because your living space is so much smaller, you save money on things like heating and cooling, property taxes, and home maintenance. Many tiny home-dwellers have also noted that they spend far less on groceries, because since they don’t have as much storage space, they can no longer purchase excess items that they don’t really need.
2. Less clutter
When you live in a smaller space, holding on to knick-knacks and other less-necessary items becomes impossible because you simply don’t have room for all of it. This is yet another way to save money because you have to consider more carefully whether something is really necessary before you purchase it.
3. Less cleaning
A smaller space means less area that needs to be cleaned, plain and simple.
4. A lower carbon footprint
Tiny homes use less energy and produce less waste, so living in one is benefiting the planet.
5. Better quality of life
Many people who make the switch to living in a tiny home report feeling happier. This is because they got rid of the “stuff” that they didn’t need, and focused on what really mattered. They spend less time on cleaning and home maintenance, which frees up time. They can engage in hobbies and leisure activities, helping them to feel less stressed and more fulfilled [3].
Is a Tiny Home Community for You?
Of course, there are some drawbacks to living in such small quarters, and having less space certainly presents organizational challenges. Entertaining also becomes more difficult, since you have less space to house guests, particularly if they are staying overnight.
That being said, many tiny homes are no smaller than some NYC apartments, but they’re a fraction of the cost. The landscape of work is changing and offices are moving to permanent remote-working models. Will you be joining the mass exodus from cities and consider moving into a tiny home of your own?
Keep Reading: Seniors Are Buying Tiny Homes to Live Their Golden Years Off the Grid


theheartysoul--2020-08-07--Scientists Discover How To Make Bricks Out Of Human Waste

There ’ s no question about it : the world has a waste problem .
In particular , a bio-solid waste problem .
We also don ’ t have enough soil needed to make conventional bricks for building homes and commercial spaces .
Recently , scientists have come up with a creative solution that solves both problems : human waste bricks .
This is what you need to know .
Researchers from the RMIT University in Australia have published an experiment they completed that turns biosolids into human waste bricks .
Now before you get super freaked out , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 % human fecal matter .
They are composed of ( 1 ) : According to the study , about 30 % of biosolids , or human waste , is stockpiled and sits completely unused .
These bricks can effectively use that portion of the waste so that it no longer has to be released into landfills .
( 1 ) Tests done on these human waste bricks found that they were highly durable and able to stand up to even the most rigorous global building settlement .
( 1 ) Other reasons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) : • Their production uses less energy than conventional building materials • They cut down on the amount of clay and sand needed for building According to RMIT Civil Engineer and professor Abbas Mohajerani , who was also one of the study ’ s leading researchers , these bricks could help to reduce the overabundance of biosolid waste and the unsustainable soil evacuation required for traditional building materials .
( 1 ) Since the invention of indoor plumbing , most of us don ’ t think much about where our waste @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way .
Of course , it has to go somewhere , and that place needs to be where it won ’ t cause harm to human , plant , or animal life .
Biosolids are when sewage sludge is properly treated and refined into organic material packed with nutrients .
They are produced by wastewater treatment facilities .
They can be recycled and used as fertilizer to improve soil quality and encourage plant growth .
The role of a treatment plant is to separate out these “ healthy ” biosolids from those that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 1 ) Unfortunately , in 2019 the waste management industry was found to be repackaging unsafe sludge as fertilizer , selling it to farmers and corporations as part of a money-making scheme .
These mixtures of biosolids and toxic chemicals were then unknowingly being spread onto crops .
From there they made their way into our food systems and waterways .
( 2 ) Livestock and humans were getting sick from consuming these products through their food and drinking water .
( 2 ) The bricks will hopefully provide a better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off of the unused biosolids that don ’ t involve pumping them into our environment .
Human waste bricks aren ’ t the only alternative out there to conventional building materials .
Hemp , or Hempcrete , has also been experimented with .
These bricks are made from hemp hurds , water , and lime .
( 1 ) There are many benefits to hempcrete , including ( 1 ) : • Does not require off-gassing and solvents It is clear that this is just another facet of our society that , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can solve several environmental and public health problems .
Would you be okay using human waste bricks to build your home ?
Keep Reading : MIT Tests ‘ Dream Incubation ’ Device That Manipulates The Content of People ’ s Dreams

There’s no question about it: the world has a waste problem. In particular, a bio-solid waste problem. We also don’t have enough soil needed to make conventional bricks for building homes and commercial spaces. Recently, scientists have come up with a creative solution that solves both problems: human waste bricks. This is what you need to know.
Human Waste Bricks to Tackle Both Problems
Researchers from the RMIT University in Australia have published an experiment they completed that turns biosolids into human waste bricks. Now before you get super freaked out, the bricks aren’t actually made of 100% human fecal matter. They are composed of (1):
75% clay
25% feces
According to the study, about 30% of biosolids, or human waste, is stockpiled and sits completely unused. These bricks can effectively use that portion of the waste so that it no longer has to be released into landfills. (1)
Tests done on these human waste bricks found that they were highly durable and able to stand up to even the most rigorous global building settlement. (1) Other reasons why these bricks are beneficial are (1):
Their production uses less energy than conventional building materials
They provide better insulation
They cut down on the amount of clay and sand needed for building
According to RMIT Civil Engineer and professor Abbas Mohajerani, who was also one of the study’s leading researchers, these bricks could help to reduce the overabundance of biosolid waste and the unsustainable soil evacuation required for traditional building materials. (1)
Read: Modular Home Design Powered Only by Sunshine & Rainwater
Why Biosolids are Bad
Since the invention of indoor plumbing, most of us don’t think much about where our waste goes after we send it on its way. Of course, it has to go somewhere, and that place needs to be where it won’t cause harm to human, plant, or animal life.
Biosolids are when sewage sludge is properly treated and refined into organic material packed with nutrients. They are produced by wastewater treatment facilities. They can be recycled and used as fertilizer to improve soil quality and encourage plant growth. The role of a treatment plant is to separate out these “healthy” biosolids from those that are potentially dangerous if released into waterways. (1)
Unfortunately, in 2019 the waste management industry was found to be repackaging unsafe sludge as fertilizer, selling it to farmers and corporations as part of a money-making scheme. These mixtures of biosolids and toxic chemicals were then unknowingly being spread onto crops. From there they made their way into our food systems and waterways. (2)
Livestock and humans were getting sick from consuming these products through their food and drinking water. (2)
The bricks will hopefully provide a better way for waste management to make money off of the unused biosolids that don’t involve pumping them into our environment.
Other Brick Options
Human waste bricks aren’t the only alternative out there to conventional building materials. Hemp, or Hempcrete, has also been experimented with. These bricks are made from hemp hurds, water, and lime. (1) There are many benefits to hempcrete, including (1):
Passive self-regulation of temperature and humidity
Great insulator
High vapor permeability
Non-toxic
High mold resistance
Does not require off-gassing and solvents
It is clear that this is just another facet of our society that, if we think a little bit outside-of-the-box, we can solve several environmental and public health problems. Would you be okay using human waste bricks to build your home?
Keep Reading: MIT Tests ‘Dream Incubation’ Device That Manipulates The Content of People’s Dreams