How do hermits in Mallorca incorporate gardening into their daily routines?

Hermits in Mallorca often integrate gardening seamlessly into their daily routines, finding it both a practical necessity and a form of meditative practice. Given the island’s warm Mediterranean climate, gardening allows them to cultivate a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs that sustain their simple lifestyle. Many hermits tend to small plots of land where they grow staples such as tomatoes, peppers, figs, and olives, as well as aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme, which are abundant in the region. This lifestyle encourages a deep connection with the natural environment, as tending to the garden requires patience, attention, and a rhythm attuned to the changing seasons.

The act of gardening is often carried out in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun, which reflects a gentle harmony with the natural world. Hermits tend to use traditional techniques, relying on manual tools and natural methods rather than modern machinery, emphasizing sustainability and self-reliance. The solitude of this routine provides ample time for reflection and meditation, reinforcing their spiritual and physical well-being. Moreover, gardening serves as a symbolic expression of nurturing life and growth, reflecting the inner calm and simplicity characteristic of hermitic existence.

Beyond its practical benefits, gardening also fosters a quiet sense of accomplishment and pride. The slow, deliberate care given to plants parallels the thoughtful, deliberate nature of a hermit’s way of living. Watering, pruning, and harvesting are moments of mindful engagement that anchor the hermits’ day, breaking the hours of solitude with purposeful action. In this way, gardening is not merely a task but a meaningful ritual that sustains both body and spirit, allowing hermits in Mallorca to cultivate peace, resilience, and a profound sense of belonging to the land.