This Earth Day, Think Sustainability in Our Community

Sustainable living has certainly become a buzz phrase.  More and more people are looking at ways to reduce their ecological footprint, like driving less, being water-smart and conserving energy.  But is this enough?  Taking the concept of sustainable living beyond the individualistic approach, to a broader community, we can learn to see our interconnectedness to our environment and its inhabitants and realize the benefits as a whole.   Achieving sustainability requires a sophisticated view that extends beyond the world of natural processes into the social.

That is why when we talk about sustainability, our emphasis weighs heavily on building communities.  Beyond forests, we’re talking about city and state parks, public squares, and community parks. 

More specifically, it’s the opportunity to develop common play areas where people of all ages (and abilities) can come to enjoy.  Sustaining our community through parks, playgrounds and small community outdoor leisure destinations brings the world closer. Furthermore, play brings families, friends and communities together.  It keeps us fit and makes us smile.

Research shows that play is a key element of development and health for all individuals of all ages and abilities.  Unfortunately, play is being threatened on every front in the U.S.  It’s seen as a “children-only” activity, if it’s thought of at all.

At the community level, the best way to protect the idea of play and encourage the building of communities is to strive for change.  The first step is to detect conditions and respond appropriately.  For example, close-knit communities are seemingly non-existent today.  Play areas which used to be within a walking distance from home, are now sometimes a 10-minute car ride away.  Nationally, childhood obesity is at its all-time high.  One of the greatest answers to this is health education and the development of more available recreational outlets.

Healthy ecosystems and environments provide vital goods and services to people of all ages, income brackets, abilities and races.  Isn’t this, as a whole, the meaning of sustainable living?  

How Can a Little Play Change Your Day?

Play is one of the ways to sustain your body, mind and soul.  Often times when we talk about play, we're emphasizing physical activity, which means getting up and off the couch, setting down the Nintendo DSI and leaving online surfing for later.  It really doesn't matter how you move, as long as you’re physically active.  Move until you breathe hard or break a sweat and you will be doing great things for your body and physical health. What are some things things you'll notice after being active?

Saw some ZZZZ's.  Sleep is good.  Your body and your brain are constantly communicating with each other.  By being physically active during the day, your body can send the “I am tired” message instead of  “I am not sleepy” message when you are going to bed.

Boost your mood: Regular physical activity can give you a better attitude and provide an extra energy boost during the day.

Cross-train the noggin:  Physical activity before homework can help you unwind from a busy day.  It will recharge your mind and improve your  focus and concentration.  

Bond with sports buddies:  Engaging in physical activity is a great way to bond with friends and to even make new ones. Consider joining a community sports team or taking in some play time after school.

Flex Your Performance:   Remember to make stretching part of your pre- and post- play sessions. Stretching helps to improve your balance which in turn enhances coordination and athletic performance, and helps prevent sports injuries. 

Clear Things Up:  There's nothing better than getting fresh air while you're playing outside.  Fresh air, together with excercise,  helps to develop lungs, bring more oxygen to the brain and promote mental clarity.

What are some ways to get exercise in the cold?