There's a huge disconnect between people, their purchases, and what went into making the items we're purchasing. A lot of companies actively try to hide how badly their means of production hurt the environment, which makes it less likely for the average person to know about the environmental and social effects. I'm going to do my best to really evaluate what I need versus what I want, if I could borrow it from a friend, or if I could find an environmentally friendly alternative before I make new purchases in the future.

I did some research into the proper way to recycle normal household items while I looked for ways to recycle items that can't go in the curbside bin and found out that my roommates and I had some work to do there, so I'm really glad I took the time to do some looking into this. I mainly looked into  ways to recycle things like batteries, electronics, and lightbulbs and realized that I've seen a few recycling stations for these items around campus.

A lot of my self care is focused on doing the things for myself that I know must be done, like making sure I'm eating and drinking enough or getting enough sleep. That also includes trying to hold myself accountable for the goals I set for myself but also respecting my own body and energy.

The meat industry is incredibly harmful to the environment, and the effects of it are predominantly forced onto communities of color and people in 'less developed' countries. It requires massive amounts of resources and large areas of land. The higher the consumption of meat is, the more the environment is harmed, and the effects of environmental degradation are pushed off by richer countries and people to poorer ones. 

Spending time outdoors in a natural brain reset. Humans evolved connected to the natural world around us. Our brains were designed to work best surrounded by green and sunshine. Going outside and connecting with natures helps me let go of all the modern things that don't matter; resetting me to be able to get what I need to done. 

I am a compulsive email checker. I often check my email when I have a spare moment on my computer, I'm anxious about something else, or I have nothing to do. Rarely is there anything new and important. Stepping away from checking my email so much has helped me be less anxious and focus on things that actually matter.  

A lack of nutrients can cause serious medical issues; for example, a lack of folate, which is found in meats, leafy greens, beans, etc, can lead to issues in brain development and nervous system functioning. In pregnant women, folate deficiencies can cause birth defects. Nutritious food should be a right, as it is a basic necessity for human life. Helping reduce hunger and malnutrition lets people spend energy they might not have had without food to take care of themselves and their communities.

It's pretty easy to incorporate spending time in nature into an exercise routine. It could be as simple as doing some daily exercises outside, like stretching or yoga. In Burlington there are also a bunch of hiking and walking trails to get out into the forest.

Trying to have less screen time wasn't that difficult. Once I made it a goal it was easier for me to remember to do other things. I have a bunch of hobbies that aren't online. This helped me motivate myself to put my phone down and start one of those.