With environmental issues in the spotlight lately, it can all feel quite abstract from our day to day lives. One way to feel like you are making a contribution is to actually put down your phone, turn the news off (!), take a deep breath, and focus on ‘environmental wellness’.
Environmentalism isn’t just the realm of those of us who are strong climate change activists (although if you are, of course all power to you). Environmental wellness involves taking care of yourself while living in harmony with the earth and understanding the impact you have on your personal environment, as well as being proactive in addressing environmental threats. It recognises the importance of small day-to-day actions along with the larger ‘big picture’ ways.
Environmental wellness is based on the understanding that our personal sense of wellness can be greatly impacted by our environment. (University of Maryland)
Ways to engage in environmental wellness include:
- Rather than jumping in the car, walk, or ride your bike to your destination (Melbourne weather permitting!)
- Save water. Turn off the water when brushing your teeth, shaving, or doing the dishes
- Eat locally produced food
- Visit farmers markets in Melbourne
- Don’t forget your KeepCup(!) and a water bottle when heading out
- Use toxic free cleaning materials and personal care/beauty products
- Use energy efficient light bulbs and appliances to conserve energy
- Unplug and turn off your computer and phone when not using them
- Purchase products in bulk when possible, to reduce packaging waste
- Use reusable bags, or paper bags when shopping
- Recycle and reduce waste – get into composting!
- Join an environmental organisation
- Educate yourself, and your loved ones on environmental issues.
It’s also important to protect yourself and your loved ones from environmental hazards such as noise, air and water pollution, second hand smoke and ultraviolet radiation.
Every little bit counts.
Stay well,
The Stable Team.
(For more on this topic check out this wonderful blog on Medium).