@axeandroothomestead: When working the bees, I keep smoke nearby if I need it. But rarely do I actually use it. Rather, I keep my nerves in check, stay calm, and go slow. Here’s a story: When I bought my first-ever hives almost a decade ago, I pulled up to the apiary with my hive travel boxes ready. The beekeeper told me to bring them over to the hives where he was going to lift the frames from the boxes into the travel containers. I didn’t bring a suit. 😱 Feeling slightly panicky, I realized I was about to have my first beekeeping experience without even a veil. Just as he was opening the cover he said, “You’re very lucky; this is a huge colony.” Well shit. No suit and a massive colony. Awesome. I tried to be cool. As I watched thousands of bees move inches from me in my shorts and tank top (and flip flops, of course), I breathed evenly. I was careful not to exhale directly on the hive. I mentally set aside my fear and willed calmness instead. The hive closed before I knew it. I wasn’t stung, and I wasn’t dead. 🤣 Now when working hives I always try to read the energy of my bees. If they’re cranky, forget it. I’ll work them later. But if I keep my energy calm, I have learned (and experienced first hand many times) that their energy will mellow too. I never stand directly over them, never breath directly on them, move slowly, and stay at ease.

Angela

Open In TikTok:

Region: US

Friday 10 May 2024 16:30:26 GMT