Move Your Body and Honor the Earth

By Charmain Lewis

By now, we have all heard about the importance of movement in maintaining a healthy body. In fact, Dr. Thomas Frieden, a former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, describes the simple act of walking as “the closest thing we have to a wonder drug."  Simple movements, like stretching, are just as important. “A lot of people don’t understand that stretching has to happen on a regular basis,” says David Nolan, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital.

While the benefits may be clearly defined, have you ever considered how movement can help us honor the earth through our actions and develop a deeper appreciation for the environment and our place within it?

Grounding:  Also known as "earthing," grounding occurs when the body makes direct contact with the natural electric charge of the Earth, such as by walking barefoot on grass or sand. This practice is believed to provide beneficial effects on our bodies. The National Library of Medicine considers grounding an anti-inflammatory remedy for modern man.

Nature Walks: Take walks in parks or natural areas, paying attention to the diversity of plants and wildlife surrounding you. This mindful experience helps foster an appreciation for biodiversity and the beauty of our planet. You can also organize a group of friends for a nature hike at a nearby trail, mountain or lake.

Gardening: Use your hands to cultivate a garden, whether it’s flowers, vegetables, or herbs. If you don’t have a lot of time or space, you can use window boxes or cultivate container gardens. Gardening supports local ecosystems and enriches your connection to the land.

Ride Your Bike: Instead of driving your vehicle to work or to a nearby destination, consider riding your bike. Not only is biking beneficial for your cardiovascular health and a great way to enjoy your surroundings, but it also helps the environment. Choosing to ride your bike instead of driving can reduce carbon emissions and minimize your environmental footprint.

As we incorporate movement into our daily practices, we honor the earth and empower ourselves. No act is too small, and every movement counts as a step toward a healthier you, motivating you to continue your journey of health and environmental appreciation.

A Basis For Health (2020, June 18). Black Doctors Speak.    https://www.blackdoctorsspeak.org/post/a-basis-for-health

Harvard Health Publishing (2023). 5 surprising benefits of walking - Harvard Health. [online] Harvard Health. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/5-surprising-benefits-of-walking.

Sinatra ST, Sinatra DS, Sinatra SW, Chevalier G. Grounding - The universal anti-inflammatory remedy. Biomed J. 2023 Feb;46(1):11-16. doi: 10.1016/j.bj.2022.12.002. Epub 2022 Dec 15. PMID: 36528336; PMCID: PMC10105021.m