The Breath Coach

As beekeepers, each hive we care for tells a unique story, and this year, I’ve taken a significant step forward by expanding my apiaries and purchasing eight colonies from my bee mentor. On top of each hive, instead of using a traditional crown board, we place a layer of cloth—typically cotton or linen. This cloth not only helps regulate moisture levels within the hive but also allows us to easily check for a laying queen by feeling the warmth of the hive through the fabric. When brood is present, the bees maintain a higher temperature to ensure the warmth needed for the hatching process.

This cloth is more than just a functional layer; it serves as a record of the relationship between the bees and their keepers. Over the years, layers of propolis and wax build up on the cloth, capturing the essence of each passing season. The colors, patterns, and textures embedded in the fabric tell the story of the hive’s history, preserving the connection between nature and those who tend to it