“I found myself wishing away my life, sitting at my desk waiting for the weekend or my next vacation,” said Tod, the longest resident of Wild Roots.
In the forests of North Carolina lies Wild Roots, a haven for those who seek refuge from modern society. Residents like Tod and Talia have chosen to embrace a simpler, more primitive lifestyle, believing that civilization is on the brink of collapse.
Living in the Woods
Homes at Wild Roots are constructed from timber, saplings, and clay, with roofs made of bark or metal. Food is sourced from the wilderness, dumpsters in town, roadkill, and local hunters. Every part of the animal is utilized, and meals are cooked over a fire kindled by friction twice daily.
The community’s population fluctuates seasonally, with anywhere from two to ten residents, sometimes dwindling down to just Tod.
The Philosophy of Wild Roots
Established in 2010 as a green anarchist movement, Wild Roots now shies away from political labels and embraces freedom from technology and societal constraints. Residents value learning from nature and each other, fostering a community without rules or policies.
“As modern people, we’ve lost the ability to provide for ourselves, but here we learn and grow together,” shared Tod.
While the community aims for self-sufficiency, the need for occasional trips to town for resources like scraps from the butcher hints at a reevaluation of their lifestyle.
The Upsides and Downsides of Living Off the Grid
Though residents relish the solitude and connection to nature, visits to town present a stark contrast to their wilderness existence. Former city dwellers like Whip miss the human connection and predictability of urban life, yet find fulfillment in the challenges of off-grid living.
“In town, people seem like robots glued to their screens. Here, I can truly appreciate the beauty of nature,” remarked Sparrow.
Living off the grid offers a chance to refocus on what truly matters – relationships, simplicity, and gratitude for life itself.
“The more money I had, the less freedom I felt. True joy comes from living in harmony with nature,” reflected Tod.
Visitors to Wild Roots are encouraged to disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in learning traditional skills like blacksmithing and woodworking. A trip to Wild Roots is a detox for the soul and a return to a simpler way of life.
Read More:
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