Wellness That’s Good for You and the Planet
Earth Day Is About All of Us
Earth Day reminds us that our health doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The environment we live in—from the air we breathe to the food we eat—plays a big role in how we feel daily.
The good news? Many of the small steps we take to feel better in our bodies also help care for the planet. Taking care of yourself and taking care of the Earth don’t have to be separate goals. This Earth Day, let’s bring them together.
Wellness Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
With so much noise about what to eat, how to live, and what to buy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But the truth is: wellness doesn’t have to be expensive or perfect.
Simple, intentional choices—made consistently—can ripple outward. You don’t need to be zero-waste or live off-grid to make a difference. Just start where you are.
If you’re anything like me, you care about the planet and try your best, but know you could be more consistent. This Earth Day, let’s explore small changes that add up over time.
5 Simple Shifts for a Healthier You and a Healthier Planet
1. Start Composting
Reduces food waste and landfill methane
Encourages more whole food, plant-based eating
Creates nutrient-rich soil for gardens
I use a pre-made compost bin I bought at Menards—it was simple to start with the right mix of browns and greens. My only regret? Tossing in watermelon rinds… they made the bin heavy and warped the lid! Lesson learned. Still, by spring, I had rich compost to sprinkle over my garden beds.
When my bin gets full (which happens quickly), we use our city’s compost pickup service. It’s free, super easy, and allows us to compost things like meat and dairy that you typically avoid in home bins. It’s drastically reduced how much garbage we produce each week.
👉 Curious if your area offers compost pickup? Check out: www.foodscrapspickup.com
Helpful Composting Resources:
2. Set Up a Reusable Station
Store reusable bags, produce bags, water bottles, and containers in one spot
Use cloth napkins and towels instead of paper products
My Honest Truth: I’m terrible at remembering my reusable bags! I keep them in the car and by the door, and still forget. (Got a tip for me? I’m all ears!)
We’ve used cloth napkins for years—some passed down from my grandma, some found at HomeGoods or Anthropologie. We’ve also tried Swedish dishcloths and reusable paper towels. I had to “trick” my family by putting them on the paper towel holder and hiding the real ones, but it works!
Tip: Keep a “used” towel bin under the sink for easy cleanup.
3. Buy in Bulk & Refill
Save money and reduce packaging
Minimize trips to the store
Keep food fresher in jars or containers
We’re exploring some local refill options from Litterless.com’s Minnesota guide. Even starting with staples like oats or nuts is a win.
4. Join a CSA or Shop Local
Eat seasonally and support local farms
Reduce food transport emissions
Get inspired to try new recipes
We signed up for a CSA again this year and can’t wait for our weekly trips to the farm. The farmer shares great ideas and we always discover something new—like kohlrabi, which we now love!
Farmer’s markets also feel more connected and nourishing—physically, emotionally, and environmentally.
5. Move More, Drive Less
Walk or bike instead of driving short distances
Get natural movement, fresh air, and vitamin D
Support your heart, stress levels, and blood sugar
Even small swaps (like walking to the library or market) make a difference. It’s not just good for the planet—it’s good for your mood and energy too.
🏡 Setting Your Home Up for Earth-Friendly Success
Practical ideas to support your habits:
Designate a shelf for cloth napkins and towels
Keep a “grab and go” bin for reusable shopping gear
Store pantry goods in jars or reused containers
Start a “low-waste swap bin” for household experiments
Make it a family challenge—try a new sustainable swap each month
The Mindset Shift: From Convenience to Consciousness
We’re wired for convenience—but that convenience often comes at a cost.
Why repair a shirt when we can replace it? Why scrub a stain when paper towels are easier? Why cook from scratch when there’s takeout?
But maybe it’s a good thing to slow down. Maybe preparing food or doing a little more laundry helps us feel more grounded.
“Sustainability isn’t about perfection—it’s about making better choices, more often.”
Wellness Habits That Also Reduce Waste
🥦 Cook simple, whole food meals
📅 Plan your meals to reduce food waste
💧 Drink water instead of bottled drinks
🚶♀️ Walk, stretch, or move outdoors—no equipment needed
🧼 Make your own cleaning sprays (vinegar + lemon works wonders!)
Why It Matters (From a Coach’s Perspective)
It’s easy to disconnect from the impact we have on the planet. But I truly believe that small things matter—and small things, done consistently, create big change.
You see it with your health and habits, and the same goes for sustainability.
No, we don’t have to be perfect. I’m definitely not. But we can try. We can do better. And when we fall off? We can get back on.
Let Earth Day be a reminder to reconnect with your body, your values, and the place you call home.
Wellness Is More Than Food and Fitness
Wellness is about how we live. It’s in the quiet moments, the daily habits, the way we care for ourselves—and the Earth.
Let’s be gentle with both. Let’s look for small ways to nourish our bodies and our environment this week. Because when we care for the planet, we’re caring for ourselves, too.
✅ Your Earth Day Challenge:
Pick one small change from this list and try it this week. Just one.
You don’t have to do everything. But doing something? That matters. 💚
