* It is a well known fact that beekeepers live longer and healthier lives than other people. In our experience, when we open the cover on a vigorous hive we encounter a potent aerosol containing the most amazing scents from all of the treasures the bees are cultivating, such as essential oils from flowers, propolis and honey. The connection we have with these fascinating creatures also brings a feeling of gratitude and well-being. We want to provide a similar opportunity for you in a safe space within our medicinal apiary and small farm called New Earth Gardens.
* It’s unique to find beehive air therapy & bee beds in North America and we are happy to offer this right here in Michigan. Located in a rural setting, nestled between the Canadian and Chippewa Lakes, countless other bodies of water, state forests, Amish communities and farms. Relax in this serene honeybee cabin, being very close to, yet separated from the bees by metal screens in the bee bed air vents. Observe the activity in the apiary and woodlands through a large window. Meditate, listen to or play music, or allow yourself to drift off to sleep.
* The environment inside a beehive is one of the most clean and healthy spaces found in nature. It is anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and full of negative ions. The bee hive air permeates up through metal screen covered holes in the beds into the cabin filling it with wonderful fragrance. There are four colonies in each bed with populations averaging 240,000 bees per bed. The hum can be mesmerizing and creates a micro massage that can be healing in itself. The colony health is kept optimal and we plant an abundance of medicinal plants in our gardens for the bees to create the most beneficial quality of air inside the cabin. We also offer special breathing masks connected to a gentle forced air device that draws air through a tube from directly inside the hive for a more concentrated dosage of beehive air!
* Included with Beehive air therapy and bee beds: your own respiratory apitherapy mask with one way valve
* Access to the gardens, electricity including a small sound system, composting toilet, propane grill, camp fire pit, outdoor sink with running water are available for use.
* Add-ons: Guided beekeeping tour, Sound & Reiki therapy, Henna
Other things to note
This site is tucked into the edge of a wooded area, within the lightly curious company of our flock of Jacob sheep. Have a close encounter with the heritage flock as they graze in the same field or request they be ushered to other pastures. (They are very timid and will avoid your approach). Prepare a stellar meal or warm beverage with the propane grill/stovetop. Golden (or char) your marshmallows over a fire pit near the structure, with plenty of firewood to do the job. Wash up with clean, running water available at an outdoor sink. Basic pots and pans, coffee French press, cutting board, plates, cups, bowls and utensils available for your use, however, housekeeping will not be interrupting your solitude to clean. A basic composting toilet is on site. You are invited to relax in a hammock under the canopy of trees, overlooking the farm and surrounding agrarian environment. Meander up to the garden or into the larger apiary, with additional bee interactions available with our head beekeeper) We kindly request that any gates be shut behind you, should the sheep think to claim you as their new shepherd.
Although we are not medical professionals and cannot advise you about or claim any health conditions will be relieved, some potential benefits many people have reported are:
Respiratory Health: The air inside the cabin is rich with volatile compounds released by the bees and the hive products, such as propolis and honey. Breathing this air is believed to improve conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory issues by reducing inflammation and promoting clearer breathing.
Stress Relief: The constant humming and vibrations of the bees have a calming effect on the nervous system, which may help reduce stress and anxiety levels, leading to a state of deep relaxation.
Enhanced Sleep: Many users report improved sleep quality after sessions in bee cabins, likely due to the calming atmosphere and the influence of the hive air on relaxation and mental clarity.
Immune System Support: Inhaling the air from the hive exposes the body to tiny particles of propolis, which has known antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. This may help strengthen the immune system and reduce susceptibility to infections.
Increased Energy and Mental Clarity: The holistic environment created by the bees, their products, and the natural setting of the cabin is believed to rejuvenate the body and mind, leading to increased energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being.
Allergy Reduction: Proponents of bee air therapy suggest that regular exposure to the hive air might help reduce the severity of allergies by desensitizing the body to various allergens, though more research is needed to support this claim.
If you know you are allergic to bee stings, we kindly ask that you don’t book a session. Although it’s not likely that a participant would get stung, it is definitely a possibility and we are not equipped to handle an allergic medical emergency. All guests will be required to sign a waiver.
Please wear farm appropriate clothing and shoes/ boots and avoid using strong smelling perfumes or hair products.