NATURE'S MEDICINE

Oom (uncle) Johannes is known by many names: herb doctor, healer, story teller, and teacher. Although he is already 95 years old, he still dedicates his time and energy to walking the lands near his home in search of healing herbs. For Johannes, nature is medicine to the soul and can be used in many ways to aid healing.
To follow our film making journey - / greenrenaissance
More information about Oom Johannes's herbs and the work he does - kruiekraaikoni...
Filmed in the Karoo, near Beaufort West, South Africa.
Who is Green Renaissance? We are a tiny collective of 3 passionate filmmakers (Michael, Justine and Jackie). We live off-grid and dedicate our time to making films that we hope will inspire and share ideas.
Equipment used - Sony A7 MKIII
Music sourced from ArtList - bit.ly/2KfrAt2
Thank You For This World - by Borrtex
Up In The Andes - by Max H
The Builder - by Lane King
Sound mix by Tamryn Breakey and Stef Albertyn

[@kamikazitsunami]

One thing I love is not just hearing him laugh but seeing his eyes laugh when his mouth does. It's something that you cannot fake. That's the expression of pure happiness and joy spilling out of his heart. This makes him such a wealthy man.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@Kamikaze Tsunami - I know what you mean - his entire faces, every single cell, radiates happiness x

[@fortbumper]

yes an example to all

[@vivianhankins705]

Contentment that's what we lack this 95year has it all love and peace with nature and himself

[@jessicadreamtime2479]

I love the way you guys capture the beauty and essence of each person, so beautifully

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks for the special compliment - it really is a team effort, and the beautiful willingness of each of these people who we feature, to share their stories so openly and honestly with us. For that, we are endlessly grateful.

[@yoga-nidra-ademenmeditatie]

🙏🏼 You, the team of Reflections on Life, have the awareness to see the Essence of life in the people you interview; so they are able to open up to you. 💞🙏🏼💖

[@JH-ht2me]

wow.. what a gentle, wise man. if the next generation all had teachers like him the world would change for the better in one generation. Thank you Oom.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@KEVIN HIGGINS - And that he shares his wisdom so freely with anyone who is keen to listen and learn more - that makes him even more special x

[@mammamia200]

"We cannot live without nature" The beauty alone along with the reaping food. The beautiful birds chirping. Nature is the root of our souls❤️

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Beautiful words! Sending much love, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@tarahskinner923]

i hear. i listen. i see. i understand. i do. Thank You Dear Sweet "Wise" Oom Johannes!

[@Nhoj31neirbo47]

A life well lived produces a bumper crop of peace and satisfaction. A poor life brings regret and unhappiness in one’s latter years.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

WOW - thats very powerfully said! Thanks for sharing those thoughts with us. And we absolutely agree!

[@GeversDebbie]

So heart warming. The earth takes you as you are, like no one else. Nature truly heals 💗🌺🌳🐦‍⬛

[@ReflectionsofLife]

So happy you enjoyed the video, the message he shared. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@ifigeniapapadelli5688]

What a beautiful and peaceful soul this man has. Every time he laughed its like the positivity and kindness passed through the screen to me. Thank you for this amazing video guys 🙏🏻❤️

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@Ifigenia Papadelli - So glad that this resonated with you. And we've still got so much more to share, so keep tuned in here x

[@ifigeniapapadelli5688]

@@ReflectionsofLife Now that i found you guys, I'm not going anywhere :)

[@fortbumper]

@@ifigeniapapadelli5688 same here

[@ifigeniapapadelli5688]

@@fortbumper 👍😉

[@lisasutherland-fraser4479]

We need more beings in the world like Oom!!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@Lisa Sutherland-Fraser - for SURE!

[@diskoboy69]

More power to you, Oom Johannes. And to Green Renaissance too!

[@paulaslatersthecreativeint1810]

Wow, to be so blessed first thing in the morning. Dankie Oom Johannes.

[@nancysmith3400]

I'll have what he's having. Such a joyful, peaceful Being. Thank you 💝🙌🎶🌎🎶🙌💝

[@ReflectionsofLife]

So glad that you enjoyed this film Nancy 💚

[@alecharper515]

I feel calm and good just watching and listening to this kindly and wise old man.... young in spirit.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

So happy you enjoyed this video, Alec. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@Prizzy999]

Dear Uncle Johannes, I would like so much to give you a big hug with all the love I can feel, you're such a beautiful soul, and your smile is so contagious that has healing powers itself! May the Universe keep you among us for a very long time still!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@XJ1042]

I love honor, and respect Uncle Johannes. He is an elder amoung us with much wisdom to share. And, laughter is still the best medicine. He has it all. Thank you for letting us walk with Uncle Johannes for awhile. If I could be present in body to walk with him and take it all it, that would be even better. I like how upright he is.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Perfectly articulated - Oom Johannes is a beautiful example of an elder who shares his wisdom freely with those who truly want to learn. Thanks for opening your heart to his message 💚

[@frpaulemmick119]

The pipe hasn’t killed him and neither has big pharma. BUT his great laugh and oneness with his surroundings has given him peace and patience. What more could a person ask for at that time of life. Thanks so much again.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

You are welcome. Thank you for taking the time to watch this little video. Yes, he is very content in his surroundings. Kind wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@keithdouglas9848]

What an amazing man! If only the world was full off more people like him ! He's awesome!

[@bountyhunter6180]

His laugh is so contagious. 😄 Peace everyone. May you live authentic lives, regardless of your current situation. Keep striving to find yourself, and living your truth Enjoy life along the way. And many thanks to Green Renaissance for sharing a different life perspective in a materialist society.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thank you Nick, for seeing the value in these stories. It is wonderful to have you along on this journey together with us. Sending much love. Justine and Michael 💚

[@amazingseniors5770]

Everyday is Christmas. Peace. Contentment. Birds are not shouting to each other. Great man!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

He really is a great man. I am planning to go back in August and visit him again. Thanks for watching. Hope you having a very happy Sunday. Best wishes, Michael and Justine

[@Symplicitee]

Seeing humanity through this lens is medicine for my soul!!!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@susank580]

Oh my, tears of joy from this one. YES!!! We need the plants. And, the plants want us the use them! When both are connected there is healing.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

A beautiful state of harmony and deep connection. Love to you Susan. Justine and Michael 💚

[@susank580]

@@ReflectionsofLife Love to you as well!!! Hugs. 💘

[@TheOrganicGypsy]

'kom my kind, ek is hier' xxx stunning video! What a beautiful man. so much respect to him. wish I could just hug him!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

We'll pass along a special hug from you, when we next see him again :)

[@kim.possible.]

I feel the same, he’s so sweet, just steals your heart❤️

[@Mersthamgal1]

Excuse my ignorance but what language is this lovely gentleman speaking

[@kim.possible.]

@@Mersthamgal1 Afrikaans

[@robincarolissen9144]

thank you for introducing us to oom Johannes and thank you to the whole Green Renaissance , more of oom jo please

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@Robin Carolissen - So glad that his story resonated so deeply with you. We'll see what we can do to connect with Oom again in the new year :)

[@fortbumper]

please show us more of this wonderful man

[@fortbumper]

what langage what country please

[@kirstyhayhoe631]

@@fortbumper most of these films are from South Africa

[@lampy4485]

@@fortbumper It’s Afrikaans, the daughter language of Dutch

[@butterflyworld2443]

That was a very beautiful 6:08 minutes... Thank you ❤️

[@ReflectionsofLife]

The pleasure is all ours :)

[@michellesalazar2768]

This Gentleman is natural medicine.He touched my heart!!!!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

So beautifully written, thank you. Sending much love, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@DharmaDocumentaries]

Wisdom of the ages. Thanks.

[@akashalotus]

This is probably my favorite one. His laugh is so jolly and contagious...😄 I hope in my sage years that I am this joyful and still have my vitality. Herbs keep you young. Bless him...🌾🌿🌼🌻🌹🧘🏾‍♀️🤲🏽💖

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@Akasha Martin - You can't help but smile, from deep down inside your heart, when around Oom Johannes. 💚

[@craigt5301]

What a gorgeous video The cinematography, subject and sound superb. One of your best.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@snezanaskoko9209]

The Sun shines through this wonderful man on all of us who listen to him. His words and smile feed our soul. Thanks so much.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks for allowing his story to have such an impact on your day. Warm hugs. Justine and Michael 💚

[@mary-annalho3804]

I come from farming people. I have never lived on a farm however I have gone to my grandparents who lived in farms. I only know I have a deep appreciation for fertile soil. These people live authentic lives. I appreciate these two people without measure

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thank you for watching Mary-Ann, glad you enjoyed this video. Kind wishes, Justine and Michael.💚

[@junglejarred6366]

That was simply beautiful thank you

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@at0M X - and thanks for tuning in to listen. We're working on SO MANY more stories - a new release out every week - so keep tuned in :)

[@chiefonelung3416]

Such a beautiful man. Such a beautiful soul. Thank you.

[@maggiolivier9855]

His wise words and peaceful character certainly is food for the soul. Lank leef oom ons waardeer en respekteer jou.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@nakeddesignnl]

So beautifully captured..! 👌

[@gracebennion2000]

My goodness. Can I bring this man home? How much wisdom, joy and love he has to share. Such a simple, free life. I am learning so much from this man, and intend to watch this video several times to continue to glean the gifts it holds. Thank you so much.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Grace - and couldn't you just listen to his infectious laugh all day long. He speaks from his heart and carries deep wisdom. It was a special few days that we spent in his company. xx

[@fortbumper]

@@ReflectionsofLife where is this special Man from

[@kerryschmidt5609]

such a beautiful man. thanks for sharing his story and his wisdom.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

And thanks Kerry, for taking the time to hear his story :)

[@lindaparisi74]

What a joyful and passionate man "uncle" Johannes is and what a beautiful film you created to honor him and share him with us. Thank you. The way all the people you film open up to you and present as so relaxed in front of the camera speaks volumes of who you all are and how much they trust you. Uncle Johannes...I listened deeply to what you had to say. Thank you. I appreciate the treasure of wisdom you have. Beautiful words from a beautiful man.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Your words always touch our hearts. Thank you for seeing the beauty in each of these people that we share, for valuing their story and seeing their light. xx

[@memyselfandiamangel2006]

I felt like my grandfather was telling me the way to sing like the birds and be with Mother Nature! ❤ thank you!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

You are so welcome! Glad you enjoyed it. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@elig5709]

I love this man! He knows what birds say! ❤️🕊🌟

[@ReflectionsofLife]

He is such a gentle soul, truly connected to all life around him. Warm hugs to you Eli. Justine and Michael 💚

[@beckjaq3608]

This man is so adorable! Found myself laughing and smiling along with him!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Glad that you enjoyed it Beck. Warm hugs. Justine and Michael 💚

[@juliepayn7696]

Your filming is wonderful. What an artistic eye all of you have. Love it.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@julie payn - Thank you so much for the special compliment x

[@karenlacy8950]

What a joy this man is! Enjoys the moment and everything about earth and life! Bless him🙏

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks for leaving these kind words through this message Karen. We send you love and blessings. Justine and Michael 💚

[@adelewilliams2693]

When he walks in nature, he fells like he is in church. The transcending of spiritual connection

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@Benstephan123]

You guys spread so much light Through your film making. This man shine with so much love beauty joy and wisdom. I wish to see more of him. Thank you💝💝💝💝💝💝

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@MA AD - And thanks to YOU for seeing and appreciating the light x

[@fortbumper]

yes more of him please

[@0JReynolds]

I wondered what herbs he eats or drank. This is all new to me.

[@Nelly-yd5lx]

He's just adorable , wise and pure,loved him.

[@robinellison6708]

What a peaceful man with so many wise words of wisdom. I wish now I would have asked my two older Aunts to show me the natural remedies.

[@fortbumper]

it is never to late

[@saudasimba3378]

What a beautiful soul filled with pure wisdom, not to mention that laugh .. like that of a child, pure and real . Thank you guys you are medicine for the soul ❤️

[@ReflectionsofLife]

So glad that you can tune in here for your regular 'dose' of inspiration x

[@Invest-banker]

His laugh is soo contagious and soulful..

[@ReflectionsofLife]

And that twinkle in his eye allows his heart to shine through 💚

[@Invest-banker]

@@ReflectionsofLife sooooo true

[@bodhi9464]

This man is happier than a vast majority of people living in the western world . 🙏🏼❤️☮️🇦🇺

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Beautifully said. Thank you for your kind words. Warmest hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@InvisableMe]

Ons het nog a dag. What a lovely thought. I think I'm going to hear the birds sing that in future. Thank you

[@mslicioussassylips]

Great lessons here. I wish that I could follow this man around for a year and learn all about herbs.

[@starringchristopher]

every day is christmas!.....thank you.... c

[@Earthsuitlife]

Wonderful character, with that giggle. He is absolutely correct in all that he says. True wisdom speaking through an authentic person who is one with nature. Just BEautiful.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks so much for the beautiful words, so glad you enjoyed what Oom Johannes shared in this video. Justine and Michael. 💚

[@roachellgrittens5141]

Listen to his laughter its contagious beautiful soul

[@Alittlepillowcompanyhome]

Please keep these videos coming! I for one treat myself to one each morning before I get out of bed and it really sets such a beautiful tone for the day 🥰

[@ReflectionsofLife]

So beautiful to know that you choose to start your day here with us. THANK YOU. And keep tuned in because we've still got so much more to share. Have a great week. Justine and Michael 💚

[@mimiwaldorf7431]

His beautiful laugh just saved my day and filled my heart with joy. ☺️🙏🏼 And his colourful cap…I really love this man. 😍🧡

[@ReflectionsofLife]

What a great message to read. Thanks for leaving this note of appreciation here for Oom Johannes. Many warm hugs to you. Justine and Michael 💚

[@philmorrison6898]

We all sit around in a ring and suppose, while the secret sits in the center and knows! I have just met the most wealthy man in the world! Thank You for sharing my friend!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@Phil Morrison - Thanks for opening your heart to his story x

[@Jaumesubirachs]

What a beautiful laughing, beyond words. Thank you.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

You are very welcome. So happy you liked the video. Warmest hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@maiaallman4635]

It must be nice to live in such a wide open space. Peace and quiet.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Good for body, mind and soul. 💚

[@meenacoultas4663]

I love this man. This is who I strive to be . Thank you

[@debibarrington8348]

Hes a cute young man..makes me smile

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@nickysek4442]

I would so much like to sit and share a cup of coffee with Oom Johannes in that beautiful surrounds while listening to a few of his pearls of wisdom...

[@ReflectionsofLife]

He is a true gem 💚

[@Blue32Star]

Stunning!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks guys - glad you enjoyed Oom Johannes's story. Much more still in the pipeline, so keep tuned in. xx

[@YalisCommunity]

Love his wisdom and love for nature! Nature truly sustains us and is such a wonderful teacher full of wonderful miracles.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Beautifully said. He is such a wise man.

[@momonwallstreet]

So soothing to hear these words of wisdom in this crazy time of Covid 19, racial injustice and hectic living.

[@user-mm1zd3kz8q]

Love his joy in living!

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@casidelaluz]

Thank you for sharing this. It provides healing to the body, mind, soul, and spirit🙏🏽🤗🌹

[@nutansanganal3990]

When u walk out into nature , nature doesn’t say stay away from me but it says come my child I’m here with you.wow what a healing words from his wise man. It’s true as u grow old u become more and more wisdom person 😇

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@jonmarston4166]

Nothing more to add except, yes and what an absolute beauty ❤🙏🏼☀️🌿💫

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thank you for the kind and beautiful words. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@acousticguitar3182]

Such a graceful relationship with the natural world around him. thank you,

[@lourdesangulo413]

Your hat Is beautiful. Your words are beautiful. But your heart is the MOST. 🌿💛💚🌌🌟 THANK YOU.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks for watching Lourdes 💚 stay tuned for lots more similar content!

[@amandacelliers5158]

RIP Oom Johannes. You are missed.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

We appreciate your caring words. Warmest wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@ExLibris-Alys]

Another wonderful human being. I love your uplifting videos full of amazing people like this lovely man, long may he continue 💛. Thank you.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@fortbumper]

what a wisdom !

[@androbolanalbornoz1693]

Guaooooo, un Ser Auténtico Su Sonrisa y su alegría me hacen sentir dichosa Gracias

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks for allowing his story to touch your heart. Warm hugs. Justine and Michael x

[@forward_ever_ever2595]

I realise that most of your interviewees are so simple...simplicity is truely one of the keys to life, & with God as our foundation..possibilities abound. Ppl say, if the world had more ppl like him it would be a better place...and that is true. So i pledge to start with me...simplicity...love.

[@carlgregory9776]

Thank you once again for another beautiful video!

[@DianeVirginie]

So much joy so much beauty so much truth and authenticity ,sometimes I just cry with so much gratitude and hope ,my heart overflows for your talent ! So happy to participate every month it is an indescribable honour . In the Tlingit language we say “Aatlein gunalchéesh” meaning my heart is so grateful ♥️♥️♥️

[@NoNopeAndNo]

Superb. Thank you

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@MIke J - Thanks, and glad that you enjoyed Oom Johanne's story. We're working on a lot more films to share in the weeks and months ahead, so keep tuned in for much more to come :)

[@monilj7766]

long live Uncle Johannes thank u for sharing

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks for taking time to appreciate his story. Warm hugs. Justine and Michael 💚

[@gaby9808]

Hmmm Really love that man🍀! Thank you again and again for al your amazing films

[@carpediem8946]

Every morning i wake up arround 6 o clock and take a shower and then, with my first cup of coffee i watch an episode of this video's. It became my bible 🙏 thanks 🤗 I feel more content with my live since i found this channel 🥰

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@shirishdesai8328]

So very sensitively composed and narrated .. Just like the herbs that blend into each other and build their own life inside you .. Thank you for cutting these beautiful slices of life that was there but slowly being eaten away by greed of owning .. but your films restore the belief that things will be back to normal ..

[@ReflectionsofLife]

So beautifully worded Shirish, thank you. Such an encouraging message. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@steverct]

We spent three nights with Om and Antionette in 2011. You captured him perfectly. We also did a fair amount of filming but never got our act together enough to share it. Glad to see that you have. Wisdom that the world needs to hear. I’m heading outside to find some herbs to chew on.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

How wonderful that you had the opportunity to spend time with them. We appreciate your touching words, glad we were able to share this message with you. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@ronels1216]

I wish with all my heart I could have met oom Johannes and could have walked alongside him in his church. I am sure he is travelling still. He speaks so incredibly beautifully, like a poet. Some words he spoke are not translatable.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

So true that to capture the true essence of his words through into English translation, is an impossible task. To hear of Oom Johannes passing a few months ago, brought us a deep sadness. But we know that his lessons and wisdom continue to live on in the lives of so many. Much love to you. Justine and Michael. x

[@fatimasalie3869]

Love listening to a wonderful man with a beautiful soul and I love what he does😘💗

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thanks Fatima, for allowing his story into your heart. Hugs to you. Justine and Michael 💚

[@fatimasalie3869]

Yes I'm old school and I just love listening to beautiful stories,I've been watching most of oom Johannes and Antoinette's videos and I find it so interesting ,if I may ask does he still live at the place where the videos are made 😘🙇

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Yes, he does still live there Fatima. We are hoping to return again soon to make another film with Antoinette, and possibly also Oom Johannes if he has the strength - he is an old man now. We adore them both x

[@DianeVirginie]

So much joy so much beauty so much truth and authenticity . Sometimes I just cry with such gratitude and hope that my heart overflows ! So happy to participate every month, it is an indescribable honour to support your divine inspired talent. In the Tlingit language we say “Aatlein gunalchéesh” meaning my heart is so grateful ♥️♥️♥️

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@Diane Brodeur - Now you're going to make US cry with your beautiful message. Thanks for these words of support Diane. We're so glad to have you on this journey with us. Much love to you from South Africa. Justine 💚

[@DianeVirginie]

@@ReflectionsofLife I am so excited I sent it double ,love you guys

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@@DianeVirginie 😂

[@charlesevans133]

Boys and girls I like this old man. Be blessed !

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Glad you like him. We do too. 💚

[@maripons8217]

Lovely man,with peace and i love with nature,how it should be

[@angel661984]

This was beautiful ❤

[@jannahebner5110]

One of the best

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Thank you, so kind. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@tjordanlcsw]

I just found you on KZbin and I cannot get enough of your videos. I am South African so they are very meaningful to me

[@ReflectionsofLife]

That is so wonderful, a warm welcome to our channel. We hope that you will find many more videos that resonate with you. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚

[@katjawoell]

Look at his beautiful face, I love his twinkling eyes so much. He is a lovely person. Thank you for this video 🙏

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@anikaveres8659]

Altijd een jong mannetje van 15 jaar.... Dankuwel , kom mijn kind, ik is hier......zo mooi....

[@michellebruton6287]

This is one of my favourites !!!! Thankyou GR 💚 Immediately brought to mind the words of one of my favourite songs .. "jy was beautiful in Beaufort Wes" Oom Johannes is 'n beautiful mense !! I didn't want the movie to end.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

@Michelle Bruton - He is a true legend, a gem of a human. We'd love to visit him again one day to explore another film together... lets see how 2021 unfolds :)

[@mullygirl1]

I love this. I smiled all the way through. It was really funny when he laughed so heartily about the herbs making him feel like 15 again....one can only imagine what was behind the mischievous chuckle. Lol

[@ReflectionsofLife]

💚

[@reignz6968]

Rus in vrede oom en dankie vir alles wat jy saam ons gedeel het❤

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Hy sal baie gemis word. Altyd in ons harte. xx

[@mytinytoodles8659]

This channel is pure bliss! My soul is happy. Such beautiful people and great content. Food for my soul. God bless you all (behind the camera and behind the scenes).

[@ReflectionsofLife]

You are so kind, thank you for your beautiful message. Have a wonderful 2021 - we hope to bring you many more films this year. Best wishes Michael and Justine