We live in a culture of extraction. We extract energy from our bodies with caffeine, and we extract resources from the earth with pipelines and fracking.
However, this constant hustle has a cost. The result is burnout for us, and pollution for the planet.
If we want to heal our minds, we must look at the wisdom of Turtle Island. Basically, the Indigenous teachings of this land offer a blueprint for a life that values balance over speed.
What Is Turtle Island?
Turtle Island is the name used by many Indigenous people for North America. It comes from creation stories where the world is built on the back of a giant turtle.
Specifically, it represents a worldview where everything is connected. In contrast, the modern industrial world views land (and water) as mere commodities to be sold.
Therefore, when we see water pollution from mining or fracking, we are seeing the physical symptom of a “hustle culture” gone wrong. We are taking too much, too fast.
3 Lessons on Wellness from the Land
1. Water Is Life (Mni Wiconi)
You cannot hack your biology if your water is toxic.
Biohackers obsess over supplements, yet we often ignore the source of our hydration. Consequently, protecting water sources isn’t just “politics”—it is self-defense. If the water on Turtle Island is sick, you are sick.
2. The “Seventh Generation” Principle
The Iroquois Confederacy teaches that we must consider how our decisions affect the next seven generations.
In comparison, modern CEOs (and stressed employees) only think about the next quarter. Thus, adopting a “Seventh Generation” mindset forces you to slow down. It stops impulsive decisions and creates long-term peace.
3. Rest Is Resistance
Nature has seasons. It does not bloom all year round. It rests in winter.
However, we try to work 24/7. This is unnatural. To honor the land of Turtle Island, you must honor your own need for rest. You are part of nature, not a machine.
How to Be an Ally Without Burning Out
Reading about environmental destruction creates “Eco-Anxiety.” It is easy to feel helpless.
Instead of doom-scrolling, take one small “Lazy Smart” action. Support Indigenous-led water protectors. Reduce your own consumption. Ultimately, you don’t need to save the world alone; you just need to respect it.
Conclusion
We treat the planet exactly how we treat ourselves: with impatience and greed.
To summarize, listen to the wisdom of Turtle Island. Slow down. Protect the water. When you heal the land, you heal yourself.
Tell me in the comments: Does spending time near water make you feel calmer?
