Earth Day (22nd April) is an annual event celebrated worldwide to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First established in 1970, it now includes events coordinated globally in more than 193 countries to raise awareness about environmental issues like climate change, pollution, and conservation.

For us yoga practitioners and those who embrace yoga philosophy, Earth Day holds special significance because of several profound connections:

The Yoga-Earth Connection

1. Ahimsa (Non-violence)

A core principle in yoga philosophy that extends beyond non-violence toward other humans to include all living beings and the planet itself. Earth Day's focus on environmental protection aligns perfectly with this principle.

2. Connection to Nature

Yoga philosophy emphasises our interconnectedness with nature. The Sanskrit concept of "Prakriti" (nature) is seen as divine manifestation, making environmental stewardship a spiritual practice.

3. Mindfulness and Awareness

Both yoga and environmentalism encourage mindful consumption and awareness of how our actions affect the world around us.

4. Balance and Harmony

Yoga seeks to create balance within the body and mind, which parallels environmental sustainability's goal of creating harmony between human activity and natural systems.

5. Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness)

This yoga principle encourages taking only what we need and letting go of excessive material attachment, aligning with sustainable living practices celebrated on Earth Day.

Earth Day invites us to see it as our duty to care for the Earth that nourishes us. I encourage you to take this invitation to heart, celebrate the planet, and engage in environmentally responsible actions and experiences.

Questions for Reflection

Please take a moment to reflect on these questions (maybe write the answers down as I have done):

Q: How can I make a better effort to protect/restore the environment?
A: I would like to be more active in my local area with environmental organisations, volunteer gardening and becoming more involved in the community.

Q: What is my relationship with nature?
A: I love nature and I have a great respect for nature, recognising how lucky we are to have such a beautiful natural world. I spend as much time in nature and with animals as I can.

Q: What is my impact on the environment?
A: My negative impact is higher than I'd like. I fly frequently and use single use packaging that I know will end up polluting the environment. Despite my gardening, veganism and low consumption, I still think I could make more of an effort to move towards zero-waste.

Q: How can I learn more about sustainable practices and environmental issues?
A: There's plenty of information online, but I particularly like YouTube for its educational content and watching environmental documentaries. There are also plenty of books I would like to read about nature, the environment and sustainability.

Q: What outdoor activities can I plan to bring me closer to nature?
A: Camping, trail running, hiking, open-water swimming, outdoor yoga, cycling and walking in parks/nature. So many to choose from!

Q: Are there any community clean-ups, tree plantings or other environmental initiatives I can take part in near me?
A: Yes! I'm sure there are! And I'd like to look into it. I know there's a club which does rooftop gardening and there are a few community gardens that I volunteer at, but there must be more going on!

Q: What long term changes can I commit to?
A: Less single use packaging, fly less, buy locally-grown and seasonal produce, don't buy ingredients or from companies that support unethical practices, up-cycling things that cannot be recycled, consider buying a homemade plant milk maker so I stop buying tetrapak which cannot be easily recycled. Generally more mindful consumption.

Q: Where can I advocate for environmental policies/practices that protect the planet?
A: I can sign petitions, email when I disagree with something within organisations, generally speak with friends and family about environmentalism and continue to choose green, environmental and sustainable decisions at every level.

Earth Week in Our Practice

This week, I'm bringing these themes into all my online yoga classes. Together, we'll explore how our yoga practice connects us more deeply to the natural world.

JOIN AN EARTH WEEK CLASS →

I know the volume and severity of issues plaguing the planet can feel overwhelming at times. We can all get trapped in the cycle of grief and guilt and helplessness. I know it can be hard to keep spirits up and see the point in caring when so many people just seem to ignore the problems and decision-makers choose profit over humanity.

I ask you to be kind to yourself and allow empathy to shine outwards. Be compassionate and patient with yourself as you make incremental changes to your lifestyle and habits and know that good actions work on many levels, helping us heal and grow, inside and out.

Wishing you a wonderful Earth Week,

Elizabeth x

Circle Yoga London offers live online yoga classes focusing on mindful movement, breath awareness, and holistic wellbeing. Join me for Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, and Restorative sessions from anywhere in the world.