I like this topic. I think of health and permaculture as 2 sides of the same coin. There are disciplines like yoga (mentioned above), chi gung, and Aikido that each have sets of principles for human health and well-being that parallel those of Permaculture. Posture / structure; not using more force / energy input that necessary; working in harmony with nature vs against; minimum effort for maximum effect (Judo). Applied in these disciplines to the human body, vs to the land / environment as in Permaculture.
"Can farming, practiced wholistically with the properly formed tools be a form of yoga?" (Charles A: I love the lesson from Prince Natan.)
Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, had a specially heavy-built farm implements (hoe). He practiced farming as an extension of his Aikido. There are Youtube videos of experts working with a scythe done as much as a moving meditation and exercise, as to cut the grass.
"Yoga has also been described as wisdom in work or skilful living amongst activities, harmony and moderation." (BKS Iyengar, Light on Yoga, p 20.) Many of you know more about yoga than I do, but I understand that Asana (postures) are considered only a part of yoga.
The obvious overlap between Permaculture and human health is the food we grow and then consume. There are principles of human nutrition parallel to those of Permaculture, but they're not found in a big book conveniently titled. I think it takes more digging and sorting out. With Permaculture, once you've found it, you've found it.
One thing that's ironic to me is people that are absolutely fastidious with their Permaculture or organic gardening, then trash their bodies with the foods they eat (sugar, processed foods, refined carbs....) That's probably the exception; the average Permaculture person is probably congruent in what he eats. I know I've been guilty of a double standard at times, but I do think my land and my body each deserve the same study and care. That's the discipline I'm working on. Like I said, 2 sides of the same coin for me.
