Quarantivities
With all of this extra time on our hands, it is easy to become sucked into the world of Tik Tok, Youtube, Netflix, etc .. However, in order to better ourselves and our Earth we should take this time to rethink our individual practices and take steps towards sustainable, ethical living. Here is some inspiration for ways to pass the time during quarantine that will help you connect with the Earth and develop an appreciation for the simple things in life.
Start Composting
Start collecting table scraps! Unfortunately, the majority of the food we throw away is organic, compostable material which takes up unnecessary landfill space. Composting enriches the soil and allows nutrients to recycle back into the Earth. Set up a compost bin in your backyard and 1) see if it can be donated to a local farm, 2) contact a curbside composting service, or 3) create your own stock with the vegetable/meat scraps. Or, better yet, if you have a garden of your own you have just created your own organic fertilizer!
Prepare Plant-Based Meals
Plant-based foods are wholesome, packed with vitamins and nutrients, and nourishing! Reducing your meat consumption will significantly lower your carbon footprint, so try going vegetarian or vegan for the day! See what recipes you come up with and share them with your family!
Exercise
Take a hike, go for a run, ride a bike! Any form of outdoor exercise will clear your head and allow you to develop a deeper appreciation for nature.
Make a Home Garden
Take a trip to Home Depot and create a mini home garden! Growing your own produce paves the way towards sustainable living and connects you to the Earth. By planting your own garden you know exactly what comes in contact with your food so your exposure to pesticides and synthetic fertilizers is significantly reduced! You also reduce dependence on large agricultural corporations which saves money!
Start a Used Book Club
Recently read a good book? Lend it to one of your friends and spark a discussion. This is not only thought provoking, but allows you to connect with your friends in a new way and helps them save money, energy, and resources!
Shop From Your Local Farmers Market
Gives back to the community, increases access to nutritious foods, supports small family farmers, and is eco-friendly + sustainable! :)
Create DIY Nature Projects
Create a leaf mural, paint rocks, make a pine cone tower, indoor succulent garden - be creative, the possibilities are endless!
Repurpose
Instead of recycling yogurt cups or La Croix cans, be creative and try to repurpose them! Turn them into mini plant pots, a makeshift chandelier, anything you want! This not only allows you to exercise creativity, but saves landfill space and puts you in charge of the waste you create!
Purge Your Closet
Take a day to clean out your closet and sort through old clothes. This is a perfect opportunity to redevelop your style and either pass on clothes to your friends/family or donate them to a local clothing bank. The fashion industry generates a large amount of greenhouse gases during its production, manufacturing, and distribution processes so continue to recycle old clothes to new owners in order to cut down on fossil fuel emissions.
Spread Positivity
Most importantly, stay positive during this time! Make the best out of the situation and keep an optimistic perspective. You are responsible for how you spend your time, so try something new that not only positively impacts the Earth, but makes you feel good and saves money!
