When sustainable living transforms into self-care: Care for the planet, care for yourself
Afew 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 oneâs 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 dayâs 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
Letâs 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. Itâs 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, âCheap 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.â 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 thatâs aligned with nature.
Improves quality of life
Sustainable living is not just about cutting waste or saving energy for a month or year. Itâs about seeing the bigger picture, of being a part of something huge. When we care for the planet while also caring for our physical and emotional health, we create a lifestyle thatâs more balanced and fulfilling. Eating seasonal fruits and local food, walking or cycling; making these choices connect us to nature and our inner selves too. Itâs a way of living that supports our wellbeing and that of the Earth as well.
In fact, a study published in the journal Ecopsychology found that people who made eco-conscious choices reported a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction in their lives. The researchers described this as a double benefit; actions that are good for the planet also helping improve the quality of our lives. So, in many ways, sustainable living is a holistic form of self-care that helps both our mind and body and Mother Earth.
Brings mindfulness
In a world that is constantly hustling, being mindful and slowing down is one of the best forms of self-care. Opting for simple yet sustainable practices like reducing waste, reusing items or composting food scraps do more than just help the planet. They slow us down. They make us pause and think about what we are buying or using, what we are throwing away and why. This kind of awareness leads to mindfulness.
It makes us be fully present in our actions and more conscious of our daily habits. It also helps us feel more connected to the natural world. A study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences found that mindfulness is positively linked to pro-environmental behaviour and a stronger sense of connection to nature. Over the course of time, these small actions tend to make us more grounded and calmer.
Sustainable living, this way, becomes a path for self-awareness and inner peace.
Improves physical and mental wellbeing
Staying physically active is one of the most effective ways of maintaining good health in the long run. Regular movement helps us manage weight, builds strength and boosts our mood. And interestingly, sustainable living also encourages healthy habitsâwalking, cycling instead of driving or boarding cabs and autos comes easy when we think of sustainability first. Almost like a gift, we get to spend more time in nature once we opt for local, fresher options in life.
These habits not only reduce our environmental footprint but also improve our physical health and boost mental clarity. Choosing such a lifestyle can lower our stress, improve our fitness and balance us emotionally too.
So, sustainable living is not just about protecting the planet, it is also about protecting our own  wellbeing. From reducing stress to becoming more mindful and active, every small sustainable choice we make has the potential to improve our physical, mental and emotional health. When we care for Mother Earth, we care for ourselves.
FAQs
How is sustainable living related to self-care?
Sustainable living encourages mindfulness, promotes healthier habits and brings emotional balance.
Can sustainable habits really reduce stress?
Studies show that making intentional, environmentally friendly choices can lower stress levels and bring a sense of peace to many.
What are some easy sustainable habits I can start with?
You can begin green living by reducing use of single-use plastic, walking or cycling more and composting kitchen waste.
Do I have to be 100% eco-friendly to feel the benefits?
Even small steps towards sustainability can improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and help you feel more connected to yourself and nature.