So often ‘self-care’ conjures images of full bathtubs, lots of plastic products, or a huge stack of journals. These are fantastic self-care methods but aren’t the most environmentally friendly. Caring for yourself and caring for the environment don’t have to be mutually exclusive!
Here are some eco-friendly self-care strategies you can use, even in this time of social distancing:
- Spend a few minutes outside. Obvious, right? The wonderful thing about self-care is that it can be done anywhere! Practice grounding or breathing exercises out in the sun or on the grass. Take a book outside or just listen to the birds chirp. Just appreciate the natural environment around you!
- Get active. You don’t have to become a marathon runner or speed walker. Try hiking or biking one of Columbus’ many Metro Parks trails or at one of Ohio’s State Parks. Yoga is a popular meditative practice. My personal favorite? Bouldering!
- Focus on your physical space. Sometimes cleaning and organizing your space is the best self-care. Take some time to do your laundry, wash your dishes, and pick up your room. Bonus points if you limit the amount of water you use, turn off lights you aren’t using, or use eco-friendly cleaners.
- Thrift. One common stress response is to buy new things (guilty!) The fashion industry is notorious for the textile waste it produces. Thrifting gives clothes and other items a new life (yay, recycling!), reduces carbon emissions, and is great for your bank account.
- Give back to the Earth. Go plant something! No matter your skill level, experience, or space constraints, there is something you can grow. Trees are a great choice if you have some space. Urban and mini gardens can be grown in multiple small planters. Houseplants count, too – and can help clean the air indoors. Just be sure any indoor plants you have are non-toxic to your pets.
- Cook something. You don’t have to use all organic ingredients. Whatever your self-care food is, making it at home will reduce carbon emissions needed to transport it and the packaging the food comes in. The environment, your stomach, and your mood will thank you! Check out the Fuel for Life blog for inspiration.
- Hang out with your pets. Whether it’s playing outside or hanging out on the floor, time with your pet lowers stress hormones and gives you a mental break. And we love them. Need I say more?
- Put your devices down. Connection is great. But constantly checking your notifications can cause a significant amount of stress. Try disconnecting from your devices for a few minutes. Check out this video for more digital wellness tips!
All forms of self-care are wonderful and valid. It’s important to find whatever works best for you. Remember that wellness is a balance of all the dimensions, including environmental wellness. What’s your favorite self-care strategy? Let us know on social media!
– Cate Heaney Gary