A city lifestyle, while offering convenience and excitement, can have several impacts on health due to its fast-paced nature and constant exposure to stressors. Various factors contribute to health issues in urban environments, many of which are unavoidable and centred around the city itself. These include environmental pollutants such as air, water and noise pollution, all of which pose significant challenges to overall well-being.
An Promsak, a former city dweller, transformed her space into a green oasis initially due to health issues. However, her new healthy lifestyle became a passion, inspiring her to promote wellness to others. We explore her journey from city living to a healthier and more balanced life that has motivated her to share the benefits of this lifestyle with those around her.
Organic Farming Changing Lives
“I used to work in Bangkok and I was suffering from work overload.”
Starting out working in Bangkok, An ran a Hainanese chicken rice stall and also doubled as a motorcycle taxi driver in her spare time. Living a fast-paced life, constantly racing against time, she had little opportunity to focus on her diet. Eventually, she developed high cholesterol, prompting her to find ways to restore her well-being.
Her main issue was she wanted to avoid taking chemical-based medication. Instead, she chose to focus on her nutrition, incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables, such as blended vegetable juice, to take better care of her health. However, when she bought vegetables from the market, she felt unsure about their safety and whether they were truly free from harmful substances.
That led to her growing her own organic vegetables, starting with potted plants since the townhouse she rented in Bangkok had limited space. As her passion grew, she expanded by renting a plot of land at the end of the alley of her townhouse to grow vegetables, and also built a small house to live in within the same area.
This decision became a turning point for An and her husband Tee. They left their food business behind and fully embraced organic farming, growing vegetables for both personal consumption and sale. Their efforts eventually gained recognition through social media, and they became known as Kaset Suk Klang Krung Thung Bang Khen (Urban Organic Farmers of Bang Khen).
Expanding Her Green Space
After enjoying a fulfilling life as a farmer in Bang Khen for five or six years, An finally decided to leave the capital. She relocated to Khao Khiao, Chonburi, where she continued her organic farming journey under the name Kaset Suk Thung Khao Khiao.
Today she still focuses on growing a variety of salad greens and homegrown vegetables for daily consumption. Gradually, she is expanding to include produce for fresh vegetable juices, such as tomatoes, carrots and other root vegetables, eliminating the need to purchase them elsewhere. By growing her own food, she ensures a healthier diet for herself while also having the opportunity to sell the surplus to support a more sustainable lifestyle.
“People started asking me on social media how to grow plants as healthy as mine since my time living in the city.”
Her journey of sharing knowledge with others began when she started her Facebook page and YouTube channel while living in Bangkok. Initially, she would respond to questions in the comment section, but after moving to Chonburi, she decided to offer on-site courses where people could see the process in action.
An expressed pride in her community, seeing how her teachings have turned into something practical for others. She’s received positive feedback from people who successfully grew healthy plants thanks to her guidance. Gradually, she has cultivated a green grouping where members share their stories of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Her Facebook page and YouTube channel have become key platforms for connecting and inspiring others in this community.
True Happiness
“I have no regrets about this decision.”
For the past six years since An started growing her own vegetables, she hasn’t taken any medicine, not even a single pill. She hasn’t had to see a doctor either and neither has her husband. Her mental state has become stronger as well, different from when she was in her previous rushed profession in the city.
Due to the significant changes she has experienced, An aims to inspire others to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Through her example, she encourages people to step away from the stresses of modern life and adopt a way of living that nurtures both the body and soul. An believes that a simple, natural life is key to maintaining good health. From city hustle to slow-life green space, her journey highlights the positive transformations that come with a simpler, healthier lifestyle.
