Vertical farming in France: Combining mental health and sustainable agriculture
What is the connection between our mental health and urban farming?
Nicole, originally from California and now based in France, wanted to explore this question. Her work intertwines mental health support with a deep commitment to the environment, creating new ways for people to connect with nature, especially in the context of climate change and limited natural resources.
Therapy and nature for sustainable change
With 15 years of experience as a mental health counselor, she introduced the unique practice of planting a tree for each therapy session she conducted. This symbolic act mirrored the personal growth of her clients and the parallel growth of trees, leaving behind a meaningful environmental legacy.
Her professional background includes managing two private practices, each with a focus on reconnecting people to the natural world. In France, she founded a “nature walk and talk” therapy, blending mental health care with the calming presence of the outdoors.
These sessions allowed clients to process their experiences while immersed in the natural beauty around them. Her work reached people from various backgrounds, including English-speaking expatriates, climate activists, and those navigating life transitions.
A a psychologist turned urban farmer
Nicole wanted to extend her passion for fostering connections between people and nature into a new field. This led to the creation of Txiki Green, a local vertical farm in Biarritz.
Here, she works to deliver fresh, tasty, and nutritious microgreens to her local community, staying true to the values of sustainability and locality. Txiki Green focuses on serving nearby areas like Biarritz, Bidart, Anglet, Guethary, and more, using carbon-neutral delivery methods and recyclable packaging with plans to introduce compostable options.
This vertical farm operates with efficiency in mind, using minimal water and energy to grow microgreens in an indoor setting. Txiki Green’s microgreens are unique as they are sold live and uncut, preserving their flavor and nutritional value.
Nicole’s expertise in mental health perfectly blends to her role at Txiki Green. Her work emphasizes the connection between the health of the planet and people, whether through therapy sessions or the fresh produce she delivers to homes and restaurants.
Combining her skills as a counselor with her passion for sustainable agriculture, allows Nicole to cultivate a healthier, more resilient community, both in mind and body. Through her efforts, she reminds us of the potential for growth and renewal, starting within ourselves.
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