10 Ways to Spread Love Like Mycelium

When it comes to love, Valentine’s Day gets all the attention. With that sweet day barely in the rearview mirror, let’s consider what would happen if we clung to that “love and be loved” mindset every day of the year. 

Of course, we’re going to turn to nature for inspiration — and mushrooms, specifically. Valentine’s Day is like the mushroom fruiting body, the part that gets most of the attention. But we wait for it all year, and then it’s gone. What if we instead thought of love like the mycelial network, connecting not just two people but each and every being on the planet? 

Love is a force of nature, something that grows, spreads and nourishes just like the interconnected web of mycelium beneath our feet. In the same way mushrooms enrich the soil, break down barriers and support entire ecosystems, we can cultivate love in our daily lives, ensuring it thrives beyond just a single holiday.

Love doesn’t have to be grand. It can be an act of kindness, a moment of connection or a choice to care more deeply for the people and the world around us. Whether you’re looking to uplift a friend, show gratitude to nature or nourish your own weary soul, here are 10 ways to keep love alive all year long.

1. Break bread with someone you love. 

Cooking is an act of love. In some communities, “have you eaten?” is a way to say “I love you.” Whether it’s a home-cooked meal for a friend, a shared dish at a community gathering or a nourishing recipe from our community cookbook, food brings people together. Take time to make a meal with care and share it with someone who could use a little warmth.

2. Support small and sustainable businesses

Show your love for the environment by supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability, whether it’s a local mushroom farm, a zero-waste store or an eco-conscious brand. Every purchase helps build the kind of world you want to live in.

3. Give the gift of knowledge

Spread love like mycelium underfoot by sharing wisdom. Introduce someone to the wonders of mushrooms, recommend a book or teach a skill that might empower someone else.

4. Practice random acts of kindness

Surprise a neighbor with some of your mushroom surplus, pay for a stranger’s coffee or leave an uplifting note for a friend who’s having a rough go of it. Small, unexpected gestures remind us that love exists every day.

5. Reconnect with nature

Mushrooms remind us that we can’t thrive in a vacuum. Head out for a mindful walk in the woods, plant native flowers or simply sit and appreciate the view around you. Nature gives endlessly — and our awe and wonder are tithings to her beauty.

6. Listen with intention

Sometimes, the best way to show love is to simply listen, especially when those around us are struggling. Offer your full presence in conversations. Whether it’s a friend in need or a family member sharing a story, being truly heard is a gift few receive often enough.

7. Create something

Handmade gifts carry energy, intention and love. Whether it’s a hand-knitted scarf, homemade herbal tea blend or a seasoning blend made with dried mushrooms, a DIY creation can be more meaningful than anything store-bought.

8. Cultivate a giving mindset

Donate to a cause you believe in, volunteer your time or simply offer what you can. Giving doesn’t always mean money — sometimes, it’s sharing resources, experiences or even just a kind word. Yes, comments left on social media count, too! 

9. Build community

Join or create spaces that bring people together. Whether it’s a mushroom-foraging group, a community garden or a book club, fostering connection strengthens the roots of love in our lives.

10. Love yourself, too

The soil needs mushrooms to replenish itself, and you need rest and care to replenish yourself. Take time for joy, rest and personal growth. When we care for ourselves, we have more to give to others. One simple way to show yourself some love each day? A daily ritual of choosing the right Mushroom Elixir for what you’re going through at that moment. 

How do you take care of yourself and others — and spread the love — when it’s not Valentine’s Day? Tag us on social media and let us know.