By: Nicole Troy
Is there anything more relaxing or tranquil than breathing in the crisp fall air out in the countryside? I personally find the greatest connection to the natural world when I am able to disconnect and center myself in a beautiful landscape, surrounded by trees, animals and fresh air. If you are anything like me, fall is such a magical time of year when the leaves change and the magnetic colors bring a sense of wonder and awe.
Last year’s October trip to Watkins Glen, New York to visit the renowned non-profit Farm Sanctuary, was truly a time for peace and finding grounding in nature. Farm Sanctuary is located on a beautiful property with around 800 animal residents (pigs, goats, cows, sheep, chickens and turkeys), who have all in one way or another been affected by exploitation and the current factory farm system. As the founding farm sanctuary in the U.S, the mission is to change the hearts and minds of people when they think of farm animals through education programs, outreach and connection.
As a Donor and member of the sanctuary I was able to book a stay in one of the tiny homes on the property, which overlooks rolling hills and the frolicking pigs in the pasture. The tiny home was impeccably decorated and the front porch offered a sense of solace. A vegan breakfast or cup of coffee could be enjoyed while looking out on the lovely property and the animals.
For me personally, one of the most impactful parts of the trip was the daily tours and having the opportunity to get to know the animal residents and their stories more deeply. The sanctuary promotes freedom and autonomy for the residents. There was never a time we approached the animals without a clear line of communication, indicating they felt comfortable with us approaching them.
On the tour around the sanctuary families with children joined us, clearly excited to see the animals up close. It was obvious that an instant connection was formed with many of the children and residents. I found such a sense of relief and gratitude knowing that sanctuaries like this exist to change generational thinking and connect people young and old to the individual feelings, personalities and emotions that animals feel. Especially when these attitudes are being changed about animals that are often exploited and overlooked.
However, I also left with an overarching feeling that we all can strive to do better. We can each make conscious choices to engage in more plant based living, encourage institutional reforms and educate our own network about the destruction that factory farming has on our own health and the planet.
Farm Sanctuary is a special place, one where love is at the forefront and nature takes the lead. As I approach my one year anniversary since visiting, I truly cannot wait to book a stay again. I would certainly encourage anyone interested in animal welfare and ethics to check out their work or pay them a visit!
With inspiration in sustainability,
Nicole Troy
WEGSS Founder & Team Member
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