Going Green for Mental Health

The environment, being green - it's all over the news and a big topic of conversation.

I had always thought of myself as environmentally-friendly, but with all the commotion lately, I've felt the urge to make further improvements.

Something as simple as walking to the store for groceries, instead of driving, will greatly reduce impact on air quality. Plus, the behaviour provides great benefits to one's physical and mental health. For me, I find the simple act of changing a behaviour into a more positive one makes me feel better. Furthermore, getting fresh air, a little sun, and exercise from the process are added bonuses.

During my shopping excursion, I purchased canvas/cloth grocery bags from my local Loblaws/Superstore for 99 cents each. I now have half a dozen bags to carry my food home more easily (without the stretching and ripping of plastic). An added bonus to my mental health: putting an end to the accumulation of non-biodegradable plastic bags stuffed under my kitchen sink which annoyingly fall out when I open the cupboard.

Other little things you can do to improve the environment and reap the benefits toward better mental health:

-reduce transportation emissions from buying local produce and derive a warm, fuzzy feeling from improving your own community / local economy
-instead of sending items to the landfill, donate used clothes and furniture to a local charity or second-hand shop
-turn off lights and electronics when not in use, not only will the environment thank you so will your mental health when you see that your monthly bills are lowered

How are you helping the environment? What have you tried? Do you notice any benefits toward your mental health, direct or indirect?

I am interested in hearing everyone's comments.