The past couple of years have been harsh. We have all navigated multiple waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has taken a toll on our well-being. To make it worse, we have mostly been homebound. The suppressed grief and disconnect from the natural world are manifesting in various ways. Consequently, we are feeling anxious and worked up. Today, we are here to help you with the perfect solution—reconnect with Earth!
April 22nd is observed as Earth Day across the world and we think it is a great opportunity to rekindle your connection with the planet. We have curated a list of easy, mindful activities that are not only good for Earth but will also help you feel calmer. Scroll through:
Organise A Tree Plantation Drive
Trees filter the air we breathe, clean the water we consume, and provide a habitat to 80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity. They absorb harmful carbon from the atmosphere and sustain lives in myriad ways. Trees are vital, a fact that we have been taught since we were kids and yet we keep forgetting about the impact that planting even one of them can make. This Earth Day, Organic Harvest, an Earth-loving brand, is helping you with a reminder. The 100% organic brand has pledged to plant one million trees by 2025 and protect the future of the planet through green practices. Organic Harvest urges everyone to join the drive and do their part for the Earth by planting more trees. You can plan a similar activity in your neighbourhood or office. Not only will it help you make your surroundings greener but will also foster a sense of community.
Declutter Your Wardrobe
A BBC study posits that an estimated 92 million tonnes of textile waste is created each year globally. We continue buying hoards and hoards of clothes while constantly chasing fashion trends. Rarely do we slow down to assess how many of them come from credible sustainable sources and how many of them add on to the ever-growing landfills. This year, let’s change that narrative. We recommend that you start off by decluttering your wardrobe. Take out clothes that you do not use anymore and give them to someone who will. Next, make a shopping strategy for the year ahead and make a resolve to stick to it. Focus on creating a capsule wardrobe, decide on how much you need, and then shortlist Earth-friendly brands to invest in.
For starters, we recommend you check out the Genes Lecoanet Hemant’s Nature Nurture collection that marks the coming together of Genes and Ayurganic. The collection has been made using Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified natural textiles and organic dyes. Infused with the extracts of natural herbs and oils, these handwoven textiles have medicinal qualities and healing properties. They are further enhanced by skilled artisans who follow ancient processes recommended by Vaidyas (Ayurveda doctors) in southern India. The bottom line is that fashion can make a change when it’s inclusive at every stage and when communities at the grass-root level are prioritized.
Declutter Your Beauty Stash
A 2019 documentary titled Toxic Beauty talks of cosmetics as the new cigarettes. The film sheds light on the damage that beauty products packed with chemicals do to the users as well as the environment. However, it is never too late to take charge. Clear off all toxic chemicals from your beauty shelf and make way for organic, Earth-friendly products. You can try brands like Organic Harvest that make hundred per cent organic and plant-based products.
Clean Up The Plastic From Your Neighbourhood
At times, cleaning up your surroundings can be therapeutic. But do not just trust us, try it yourself this Earth Day. Reach out to your neighbours and make a spontaneous plan to clean up plastic from your surrounding areas. This will give you a chance to interact with the people around you and in the end, you’ll have a plastic waste-free neighbourhood. Win-win!
Prepare A Meal With Local Grains & Seasonal Veggies
According to the Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of Climate Change report, a plant-based diet can significantly help in reducing your carbon footprint. Plus, when you eat seasonal and local veggies and grain, you are doing a favour to both yourself and the Earth. This is why it is good to take a break from your dairy-heavy and meat-based diet every now and then. And does it get any better than Earth Day to give it a go? We have the perfect plan. Create a hearty meal with local grains and seasonal veggies, invite people over, and have a party. You’ll be surprised by how rejuvenated it makes you feel.
Make It A Vehicle Free Day
Another way to reduce your carbon footprint will be to go vehicle-free for a day. Work from home, walk to nearby stores for groceries, and let your car sit in the garage for a day. It will be a great break for both you and the environment.
Build A Bird Feeder
A 2019 Down To Earth study throws light on how the progressively rising temperature in summer is making survival difficult for birds in India. As temperatures continue to rise and break records, the bird population is declining and an absence of insectivorous birds has been reported in various parts of India. We can help the situation by creating a safe haven for these birds. You can sit with your family and make a bird feeder as an Earth Day activity and a connection exercise. You can also install water bowls at different points at your house and in your locality to help these birds stay hydrated.
Turn Off The Lights
As per a 2019 study, turning off lights even for an hour can significantly help the Earth. This is because power plants are a major source of air pollution. They emit carbon dioxide, which affects the global climate, and pollutants, that directly impact human health. Thus, every time you save electricity, you’re saving money, the planet, and also registering measurable savings in terms of the health benefits.
So fam, all set to rekindle your connection with the planet this Earth Day?
Featured Image: Unsplash