Content provided by the Health & Wellness Team at GBS Benefits
Connect with the environment this month by prioritizing outdoor activities and making small changes to reduce personal environmental impacts.
Day-to-day life can often feel overwhelming and complicated with to-do lists, busy schedules, and unexpected tasks. Connecting with nature brings a level of peace and presence to daily life that helps individuals keep balanced with these demands. A strong connection with the environment enhances emotional well-being and alleviates feelings of social isolation.
Protecting nature is just as important as connecting with nature. The way we treat our environment largely impacts the future of our planet. There are many small and easy ways to be environmentally friendly to keep the world a clean place for future generations. Going green doesn’t require a lot of time or money, but simple changes in daily lifestyle can largely impact the environment. Continue reading for simple ways to connect with and improve the environment.
Let nature in. Open windows, blinds, and curtains to allow sunlight and fresh air to flow through the workplace and your home.
Recycle. It’s never too late to start recycling. Reduce waste by sorting and recycling materials frequently.
Did you know? The United States makes up only 5% of the world population, but it throws away enough plastic bottles in one week to circle the Earth five times around!
Go for a walk. Whether at a local park or around your neighborhood, get some exercise and enjoy the sunshine while connecting with nature.
Conserve water. Be mindful of how often the sink, shower, or bath is running. Consider installing water-saving shower heads.
Start a garden. Growing a garden provides a great opportunity to work with nature. Most plants are simple to maintain, and several edible plants can be grown indoors. Click here for a beginner’s guide to gardening.
Stargaze. Take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of the world. This can be a fun way to admire the beauty of the universe.
Eat fresh and local produce. Shop at farmers’ markets or stores that source their ingredients locally. Eating foods that were naturally grown or raised and recently harvested works wonders for your well-being and is a great way to support the community.
Avoid single-use containers. Reuse water bottles, shopping bags, lunch containers, and coffee mugs. Bring reusable containers with you when on the go.
Try new outdoor activities. Connect with nature by spending time hiking, biking, camping, or birdwatching.
Time spent in sunlight, fresh air, and open spaces can lower stress levels and have an overall positive impact on wellbeing. Interacting with nature can be stimulating and give you a break from everyday stressors.
Learn a variety of local plants. Study plants that are common in your area. Learn how to identify them and if they can be useful or if they are poisonous. Search by your zip code on the Native Plant Finder to learn about local plants.
Turn to alternative transportation methods. These can be smart and ecofriendly, such as public transportation, biking, walking, or carpooling with a friend or co-worker. Keep in mind it can take time to coordinate alternative transportation, but the benefits are often well worth the effort.
Observe the moment. Take time to watch your surroundings and take notice of your senses. What do you smell? What do you hear? What do you see?
