As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st century, our planet’s health has become an increasingly focal point of concern. Earth Day, a global holiday observed every year on April 22, provides a vital platform to raise awareness about compelling environmental issues and encourage action towards sustainable solutions. This year’s theme is Planet Over Plastics, an important call to reduce plastics for the sake of human and planetary health. Participating in Earth Day is a powerful way to make a positive impact on our planet. Whether it’s taking part in local clean-up campaigns, planting trees, reducing your carbon footprint, or advocating for policy changes, every action counts. Think about what type of nature appeals to you most. Is it the mysteriousness and beauty of the ocean, the bird noises and tropical colors of the jungle, or possibly the smell of the pine trees and the enchanting sounds of a forest. Our environment is so precious and vast, we must protect it for generations to come.

Have you ever noticed how grounded you feel after strolling barefoot along the beach? Or how invigorated you feel after playing with your kids in the grass? New research suggests that earthing, also known as grounding, allows one’s body direct contact with the Earth’s negative electric charge and can influence the electric charge of the body’s cells. This, in turn, can affect your overall state of health.

One way of grounding is walking barefoot outdoors, preferably on grass, soil, or sand. Firmly plant your feet into the ground, a foot’s distance apart, arms slightly out from your sides, palms facing forward. Take a deep breath in, feeling the breath rise up through your feet and all the way to your head. Slowly breathe out, releasing the breath through your mouth. Notice the sensations in your toes, your feet and your body as you stand and walk. Notice the rhythmic flow of each step you take and feel your feet touching the ground, your arms swaying, your neck moving. Move so slowly that you can feel the weight shift from your heel to the middle of your foot to your toes. Notice how the entire body engages its muscles to maintain balance. With each step you take, release your cares, concerns, burdens, and worries to Mother Earth. Feel them sinking into the ground, leaving you lighter with each step.