Mud, Microbes, and the Maker’s Blueprint

In a world increasingly paved over and sterilized, Finland’s decision to “rewild” 43 daycare centers may appear unusual, but the Finnish Biodiversity Interventions for Well-being research group sees increased exposure to nature as an important need for children’s health. Scientists have discovered that children exposed to natural biodiversity—such as soil, moss, and forest floor—develop stronger immune systems in just 28 days (Education Sciences, February 16, 2023). Over time, their skin hosts fewer harmful bacteria, their gut microbiomes become healthier, and their blood contains more cells that guard against diseases. More exposure to the natural environment has also been linked to a reduction in symptoms of ADHD, asthma, allergies, Crohn’s disease, and inflammation-related diseases (BBC, October 11, 2022)—remarkable benefits from an environment with dirt, mud, plants, and grass!

Restoring school playgrounds to a more natural state can also remind us that God “formed man of the dust of the ground” (Genesis 2:7). Human beings were designed to exist and thrive in God’s creation—in fact, He originally placed mankind in a garden. Modern life often treats the natural world as a threat to be managed. When we completely sever our connection to nature—when children grow up without occasionally spending time surrounded by God’s creation—important physical and spiritual benefits are lost. The Apostle Paul observed that “the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God” (1 Corinthians 3:19), and perhaps this applies to man’s obsession with sterilizing every facet of his personal environment.

As allergies and autoimmune disorders multiply, more exposure to God’s creation may be an important part of the solution. Reconnecting with God’s creation can both strengthen our bodies and remind us that we are a part of that creation—made from the very soil we walk on. You can learn more of what God has to say about living a healthful life by reading or listening to Biblical Principles of Health.