Mathu Bloom

Mathu Bloom has been living at Coed Hills for the past seven years, in a tiny house she designed and built herself. Her main responsibilities include growing vegetables and flowers in the gardens and polytunnels, as well as helping to organise Coed’s busy events calendar.

Originally from the Netherlands, Mathu left home at 19 to travel the world. After more than 15 years on the road and a period back in Holland, she sought out a community where she could grow her own food. Along her journey, she found Coed Hills, where her skills in gardening, and bringing beauty, cleanliness and order have been hugely appreciated. Mathu reflects:

“During my seven years at Coed, I’ve gained countless skills. I built my own tiny house, and I grow enough organic food that I never need to go to the supermarket.

Living simply has allowed me to slow down. When you understand that the less you want, the less you own, and the less you need, you also experience less confusion and mental clutter. People are incredibly adaptable, that’s why we ‘flourish’ and ‘progress’ as we do. But adapting to all the noise and demands of modern life, though we think we can handle it, isn’t always right for us.

You realise this when you take a step back—when you start growing your own food, repairing broken things, and finding fulfilment in the community around you.

I’m still here because it’s rare to find a place like Coed, where the landowner is so supportive, and the community is healthy, progressive, and self-aware.

It’s a place where I can grow, both personally and in the land, while earning an income, surrounded by peaceful nature and wonderful community members.”

As part of Coed’s wellbeing team, Mathu offers intuitive touch and deep tissue massage. She says:

“With my strong gardener’s hands, I can help release tension in your muscles and mind. I use organic oils, infused with flowers and herbs from my garden, to help you relax and heal. With seven years of experience, I strive to offer the self-care you deserve.”