4 Ways to Help the Earth (and Yourself)
First held on April 22, 1970, Earth Day is an event celebrated annually on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. People take part in a variety of activities around the globe to show their care for our planet. Just to name a few, activities may include planting trees, picking up trash, switching to clean/natural household and personal products, recycling, and composting.
The key is that people are making a conscience and intentional effort to do AND be better for our planet. Imagine if we could find ways to continue this mission and help ourselves at the same time. With this article, I’ll be sharing four simple ways to do just that.
“We need joy as we need air. We need love as we need water. We need each other as we need the earth we share.”
Intention #1 - Take your workout outdoors!
Get outside for some fresh air and Vitamin D from the sunlight. Vitamin D is a vital vitamin. The presence of it in our bodies is essential for bone and muscle health, and it also helps to support a robust immune system. Do your research and find out the many other benefits of this vitamin, also request to have your own Vitamin D levels checked during your next physical. In addition, a change of pace from inside of the gym can work wonders in adding variety to your workouts, breaking through plateaus, and challenging yourself. Make sure to protect yourself when exercising outside by wearing sunscreen and appropriate clothing. If you’re exercising during the evening, make sure you are in safe areas and are fully aware of your surroundings. Being in the midst of nature is also an excellent way to boost our mental health. Don’t take for granted how much the beauty that naturally surrounds us can renew and refresh our mindset.
Intention #2 - Support local farmers markets!
We don’t always take the time to think about it, but local food can help the environment. When we eat local, less energy and fuel is used to transport the food. Most food found at the farmers market are minimally processed (unlike many at the grocery store), and there are amazing local farmers who do their best to grow the most nutritious produce possible, harvested at the most optimal times. And Johns Hopkins School of Medicine shares that shorter distance from farm to sale means higher the levels of vitamins and minerals. This is exciting, because it gives us the opportunity to shop and eat more healthy whole foods, specifically fruits and vegetables.
Intention #3 - Plant something!
It could be a tree, a garden, or even a potted plant. I’ve really gotten into my potted plants for the past few years. Some, I’ve chosen for the beauty… others, I’ve chosen for their benefits. For example, snake plants and pothos have air purifying qualities for your home. If you decide to garden and choose the flower route, there are some beautiful, easy-to-grow, low-maintenance options available. Marigolds and zinnias are a nice option. You’ll see the beauty and the pride in planting and growing these flowers, along with helping the bee population. A flower garden may also provide a place of peace for you sit and enjoy meditation & prayer. Finally, an herb garden would also be a great addition to your healthy lifestyle; think rosemary, sage, basil, lavender, oregano, and even mint. Now, there’s lots of options available in this category, and I’m no expert. However, The Spruce has a great article on where to start.
Intention #4 - Walk, instead of driving!
Well, walk or bike or carpool. Of course, you have to find what works best for you and your situation. However, minimizing the number of cars on our highways and streets will benefit our environment. These benefits include reduce air pollution and carbon emissions, reduced fuel consumption, along with energy conservation. Then, there’s also the benefits on a person,al human level: less stress from navigating traffic; improved fitness from walking or biking, plus that fresh air and vitamin D that I mentioned above; and building social connections with others during carpooling.