When sustainable living transforms into self-care: Care for the planet, care for yourself

A few months ago, I made a conscious choice of changing one small habit, that of carrying my own reusable cotton bag and water bottle everywhere I go. I started doing this because I wanted to reduce my usage of plastic. But steadily, I found myself walking more instead of taking autos and cabs, eating fresher food and spending more time outdoors. Interestingly enough, I felt a lot calmer, more mindful and energised too. What started as a conscious choice for the planet turned into a form of self-care for me.

This connection between sustainable living and wellbeing is not just a feeling though, it is actually backed by science. A research study led by Michael Prinzing from Baylor University explored how eco-friendly choices could enhance one’s happiness. The research tracked adults across countries and the participants reported feeling happier on days when they practiced sustainable behaviour like reducing waste, conserving energy and choosing eco-friendly transport. The study also found that people who had not previously focussed on sustainable practices experienced a positive shift in their mood after doing so.

World Environment Day, celebrated on June 5th, was started by the United Nations in 1972 to encourage individuals to take action for the environment. By planting trees, reducing waste or by simply learning more and imparting knowledge about our beautiful planet to the younger generation, we can celebrate this day’s true essence. It is a day to reflect on how our daily choices affect Mother Earth and how caring for nature can be a great way to care for ourselves.

On this day, join us as we explore how caring for the planet also means caring for ourselves.

Reduces feelings of guilt, stress

Let’s accept it, many of us feel kind of guilty when we toss out single use plastic or perhaps accept unnecessary packing with a takeout. Or even when we know we are shopping for more things than we need. We try to ignore the feeling, but it can build over time and create stress. It’s the weight of knowing that our small actions might be harming the planet more than what we think is what keeps niggling at us. But the good news is that when we become more mindful about how we consume, we can alleviate this kind of stress.

When we choose to reuse, recycle or reduce waste, we feel more in control and are less burdened by such guilt. A study published in the journal Sustainability found that people who adopted eco-friendly habits often reported lower levels of psychological stress. The study noted that sustainable behaviour gave people purpose and reduced their inner dilemma and tension.

Creates a peaceful environment

When we choose to live more sustainably and do things like support local products, buy only what we need and reduce waste, our homes and communities tend to become more peaceful, cleaner and beautiful overall. A clutter-free space and having things that last long have a calming effect on our minds. Making this shift not only helps our planet, but helps us feel better too. In this manner, sustainability becomes a quiet form of self-care.

By taking care of our surroundings, we create a space that supports rest, clarity and balance. English author and fashion educator Sass Brown states that, “Cheap fashion is really far from that. It may be cheap in terms of the financial cost, but very expensive when it comes to the environment and the cost of human life.” Her words are telling, they remind us of the fact that our mindful choices, like quality over quantity, can reduce stress on us and our planet. And they can bring a sense of peace in our daily lives.

It is important to remember that living sustainably is not about giving up comfort, but more about creating a life that’s aligned with nature.