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Accessibility Friendly Ways to Celebrate the Earth
It’s important to give back to the Earth, after all it feeds us and brings about a beauty that no technology could ever replace. Every year, on April 22, humanity comes together to celebrate Earth Day, a holiday where we can thank our planet for all it does for us. But, there’s so much more to Earth Day than going for a hike or picking up trash, and there is a way that everyone can celebrate the Earth, no matter what their accessibility needs may be. Earth Day is for everyone, so let’s keep it that way!
At Upstate of Mind, we take pride in giving back to our planet and celebrating it every single day. From reusing our cardboard to make store decor to ditching poly bags for mailing, we like to do our part. Shopping with Upstate of Mind will give you the peace of mind that we love the Earth just as much as you do!
This guide is arranged from the most to the least amount of movement!
Photo Credit: Saryn Taylor
High Physical Requirements
Bouldering
One of the most physically demanding and daunting feats we put our bodies through, bouldering is the art of taking the rock climbing skills out of the gym and into the world, sometimes without any ropes. Upstate NY has many options for those who like to live on the wilder side, but these are just a few for you to explore in the great outdoors!
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The Gunks (Shawngunk Ridge)
Hiking
If bouldering sends you running for the hills, but you still want to get your inclined steps in, then consider hiking in some of these gorgeous parks all around the Upstate area.
Medium Physical Requirements
Plogging
If you haven’t heard about plogging, you’re not alone. This new trend started in Sweden and combines taking care of the Earth with exercise, and a bit of a game mixed in. All you need to do is grab your running shoes, a trash bag, and a pair of gloves (or a grabber tool), and you’re good to go! While you’re jogging, pick up the trash that you see, and soon you’ll be on a treasure hunt to help the world!
Start a Compost Bin or Rain Barrel
You can celebrate Earth Day in your own backyard by setting up a compost bin or a rain barrel. While the initial start-up is a bit challenging, the pay-off for good soil and rain collection for plants is so rewarding!
Visit Your Local Park
While hiking and Bouldering may be too far to travel (and too strenuous), your local park could be just a few feet away! Take a look at your digital map of choice and see if you walk or bike ride to it. Maybe plan a picnic or bring a book. Our public parks are the perfect way to soak in the sun and appreciate the planet.
Photo Credit: Troy, NY Gov Page
Low Physical Requirements
Bird-Watching
Bird-watching is so much more than looking up at the sky with binoculars; you can also use a guidebook. In reality, bird-watching helps us get in tune with the avian species we share our planet with and can be a great way to disconnect from tech. Look out for the bluebird (our state bird), or maybe you’ll get lucky and spot a rare form of goose! The best part is, you can bird-watch from your front door or a nearby park.
Sketch a Nature Scene
It’s time to harness your inner Monet and grab your sketchbook (or just a piece of paper) and head outside! Find someplace to sit and just do your best to draw out anything you see in nature. From trees to squirrels, the sky’s the limit! It’s a nice way to appreciate nature, and who knows, you may get a new hobby out of it too!
No Physical Requirements
Watch a Nature Documentary
Going outside for Earth Day is not a requirement, you can travel far and wide from the comfort of your couch! Enjoy a classic Disney Nature documentary or turn on a National Geographic film and be transported to a new, beautiful location.
Make a Donation
There are so many Earth forward organizations that you can support that help our trees, animals, and more, like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) or the Sierra Fund. Even more, research some local eco-friendly non-profits in your area to help at a local level.
No matter how you want to celebrate Earth Day this year, you can do it!
