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Happy Earth Day! Today we’re celebrating our amazing planet and talking about what we can do to ensure its future. But before we dive in, did you know that Earth Day has been celebrated for over fifty years? Let's take a quick look back…
Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22nd, 1970, to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire people to take action. On that day, over 20 million Americans participated in rallies, clean-up events, and educational activities. The success of the first Earth Day led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the passages of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act.
Fast forward to today, and Earth Day is still celebrated by millions of people around the world. It's a day to think about the impact we have on the planet and how we can be mindful of our choices and make positive changes wherever we can. One of the ways we can do that is by exercising and staying healthy in a sustainable, eco-friendly way. Here are some fun ideas:
Plant a garden. Not only does gardening get you outside to enjoy nature, it's also been shown to improve your physical and mental health. Plus you get to grow your own healthy food! Choose organic seeds, compost food scraps to create your own fertilizer, and water with a rain barrel.
Take a hike. Hiking is a great way to explore the natural world around us and get some exercise at the same time. Choose a local trail and be sure to pack some water and snacks.
Use reusable water bottles and containers. Instead of buying bottled water or disposable containers, invest in some reusable ones. This reduces the amount of waste going into landfills and saves you money in the long run.
Bike to work. If you live close enough to work, consider biking instead of driving. Not only is it better for the environment, it's also a fantastic way to get in some exercise and fresh air. Plus it saves you time – you’re doing your exercise and commute at the same time! Just make sure to wear a helmet and use hand signals when turning.
Pick up trash. Next time you go for a walk or run, bring a trash bag with you and pick up any litter you see. Not only are you doing something good for the environment, you're also getting in some exercise as you walk and bend.
Eat local, organic produce. Look for farmers' markets or join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program to get fresh, local, organic produce. This reduces the carbon footprint of your food and supports local farmers.