(Re)connecting to the Earth: The Heart of Xinescape

Hello, I'm Christine, or as my friends have called me since middle school, Xine (zeen).

Since my late teens, I’ve felt a pull toward the land—an intuitive need to understand, to observe, to learn from it. That desire led me to dive into the world of permaculture, a practice that, at its core, is about working with nature rather than against it. I began my journey through hands-on experiences, WWOOFing on small family and collective farms in California, and seeing first hand how even the smallest plot of land could be transformed into a sanctuary of abundance.

Over the years, my knowledge and connection with the earth deepened. From nurturing a condo balcony garden to cultivating a 1/4-acre farm plot, I’ve experienced the resilience and wisdom of nature. Whether the space was tiny or sprawling, the principles of permaculture always applied—harmony, sustainability, and reciprocity. And that’s the essence of what Xinescape represents: a way to restore our balance with the earth and rekindle that ancient relationship of give-and-take.

But beyond my hands in the soil, I’ve always nurtured a love for philosophy and psychology—two disciplines that explore the intricacies of the human mind and our place in the world. They guide my work not only in landscape design but in helping people—my fellow humans—find a sense of wholeness and belonging through their connection to the land. In a world that often feels disconnected, Xinescape is a reminder that we are a part of nature, and through permaculture, we can restore that bond.

For most of my adult life, I’ve worked with children with disabilities, primarily those on the autism spectrum. It’s been a profound and humbling experience—one that has deepened my understanding of communication, patience, and empathy. Working with these children has taught me to look for different ways of connecting, not just with people, but with the land. It has also inspired me to create spaces that are inclusive, nurturing, and grounded in the principles of care and compassion that permaculture teaches.

Today, I live in Pleasant Grove, Utah, with my husband and our three children. My husband is a history and social studies teacher at a concurrent enrollment high school, Utah Valley University and the state prison. Our life is rooted in community and the land around us, where we’re constantly learning and evolving. Xinescape is not just a business—it’s an extension of who I am and my journey through permaculture, philosophy, psychology, and family life. It’s my way of helping others reconnect with the earth and each other, creating spaces that are not only productive but deeply restorative.

I invite you to join me on this journey, where together, we can cultivate more than just gardens—we can cultivate a way of living that honors the earth and nourishes the soul. Welcome to Xinescape.