West Lexham in Norfolk, owned by our friend and Neemsayer Edmund Colville, is a beautiful holistic retreat. Set in a picturesque river valley with ancient trees and abundant wildlife, the retreat is a sustainable haven, largely powered by renewable energy. A highlight of West Lexham is its charming treehouses, offering a unique way to experience the area's natural beauty. Nestled among the treetops, these cosy tree houses provide a tranquil escape, allowing guests to truly connect with nature. It's a place where we at Team Neem love to spend peaceful, rejuvenating days.
We had a chat with Edmund, who shared his insights on sustainable living and his experiences.
What actions have you taken to reduce your footprint?
"At West Lexham, we use reclaimed materials for building as much as possible and are primarily powered by renewables, including solar and locally sourced wood chips. We also grow our own vegetables for our cafe and strive to source locally, using eco-friendly products."
What would you suggest others do as a result of what you've experienced and seen?
"Take time to disconnect from your usual thought patterns and experience the world from your heart instead of your head. Connecting with nature on a heartfelt level, rather than just intellectually, allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation."
What have you witnessed first-hand that has inspired or motivated you most to act on climate change and biodiversity loss?
"Nature is more than what meets the eye; there’s an energetic ecosystem too. The land can carry trauma just like people, and human impact is felt beyond visible damage or biodiversity loss. Areas undisturbed by human activity feel more alive. This subtlety shows that climate change and biodiversity loss are symptoms of a deeper human experience of separation. By reconnecting with nature and each other through our hearts, doing harm becomes impossible."
How would you describe Neem?
"Refined and responsible."
Favourite music artists:
-
Be Svendsen
-
Oceanvs Orientalis
-
Kerala Dust
Favourite artist:
Ken Kiff