10 ways to start 2019 naturally
Snowshoeing is a great way to connect with nature over the holidays (CC0 1.0)
With 2018 come and gone, there’s no better time than now to turn over a new leaf. The beginning of a new year brings new possibilities, and we make resolutions that we hope will stick over the next 365 days. Whether you’re hoping to hit the gym more frequently this year, or pledging to devote more time to family and friends, try incorporating nature into your resolutions. By putting more green into your step in 2019, you are not only benefiting the planet, you're boosting your own well-being.
Here are 10 ways to incorporate nature into your 2019:
1. Search for signs of life
In the winter, everything and anything in nature is typically concealed under blankets of snow, but that doesn’t mean you can’t see evidence of wildlife. If you look closely, you can often spot mammal tracks imprinted into the snow.
2. Reduce your plastic consumption
You never know when you might come across a great sale, so bring a reusable bag with you wherever you go. When grocery shopping, use reusable produce bags and choose food with less or no packaging. And remember, a reusable water bottle keeps plastic out of landfills and saves you money.
3. Strap on a pair of Canadian boots
Try the timeless Canadian tradition of snowshoeing at one of the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s (NCC’s) properties across the country, such as Bunchberry Meadows in Alberta, Happy Valley Forest in Ontario or Lincoln Wetland Nature Reserve in New Brunswick. Many outdoor stores, some conservation organizations and/or parks across Canada rent snowshoes.
4. Keep your wardrobe green
With the rise of fast fashion, it’s easy to get lured into trendy, cheap clothing found in malls across Canada. The clothing industry has made a significant impact on the planet as the planet’s second-largest polluting industry. Research where and how an item is made before you buy; you might be surprised to learn the impact that a pair of jeans can have.
5. Seek out "cheep" thrills
Birdwatching is one of the easiest hobbies to get into. You only need reasonably good eyesight and a pair of binoculars, and it can be done outdoors or indoors. There are many apps and guides available for beginners to pros, and local birdwatching or naturalist groups make sharing your observations or asking questions easy. Discover the joy in watching birds of all sizes and shapes being, well, birds, in their natural habitats this year!
6. Camp in a winter wonderland
If you think camping is just for the summer or fall, think again. With the right gear and clothing, camping can soon become your favourite year-round activity. Here are three of the most important things to remember while winter camping: stay hydrated, stay warm and dry and be prepared to deal with sudden weather changes.
7. Commit to being well at work
Whether you have a physically demanding job or one that ties you to a screen and desk, taking steps to incorporate a workplace wellness routine does wonders for your well-being, and it helps to increase job satisfaction, productivity and even reduce stress. Trade your chair for an exercise ball, set reminders to stand a few minutes every hour or round up your colleagues for a lunchtime walk. There are lots of fun ways to get active in the office.
8. Be active in nature
For many, a typical New Year’s resolution is to exercise more often. Even though it’s now the dead of winter, don’t let the frigid temperatures prevent you from going outside and being active, whether it’s hiking, skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing or outdoor skating. The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has many properties across Canada with spectacular trails that are ideal for winter hiking, including Ontario’s Happy Valley Forest, Alberta's Bunchberry Meadows, Saskatchewan’s Fairy Hill and Nova Scotia’s Gaff Point.
9. Become a "green" commuter
If you drive your car to work or school, start using public transit, cycle or walk instead. These options are cheaper, less stressful and more environmentally friendly than driving. Walking and cycling are also excellent built-in exercise, and public transit gives you an opportunity to do other things during your commute, such as reading or catching up on work. If you must drive, try carpooling.
10. Keep nature alive in a digital world
It’s hard to rid yourself of all screen time in an increasingly digital world, so if you must be plugged in, why not make the time count? Read up on conservation news, listen to nature-related podcasts and watch documentaries to learn about conservation in Canada.
Want to write for Land Lines? Email us at landlines@natureconservancy.ca to learn more.
About the Author
NCC staff Since 1962, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has protected areas of natural diversity for their intrinsic value and for the benefit of our children and those after them. To this day, NCC continues to protect land and share stories of nature, wildlife, science and conservation.
