Go Green With Your Brain!

The time has come for our monthly theme day posts here at b5media, and this month’s theme is “Go Green!”

When we think of “going green,” we think of doing things to help the environment and, consequently, ourselves. So, how does going green relate to our brains? Our mental health?

I recently discussed natural remedies to help with depression and other mental health problems; today, however, I want to put a different spin on things.

When you go green, you may start:

• Recycling, and purchasing recycled goods.
• Walking to the store, your friend’s house, or church instead of driving
• Reusing your Sunday paper as puppy pads rather than paying a gazillion dollars for supermarket puppy training pads, thus helping put more trash on the earth.

There may be times you do these sorts of things without even thinking of “going green.” When you do, how do you feel? When you recycle and help save a tree, or purchase paper cups and plates instead of Styrofoam, or opt for paper bags at the grocery store instead of plastic, do you feel pleased with yourself?

You should! And with any kind of luck, that good feeling will stick with you, thus – *drum roll please* – benefit your overall mental health and well-being.

Think about it. You’re having a get-together tonight, and you really need to pick up some disposable plates. The store is just two streets away, so you grab your own reusable cloth market bag and walk. Instead of choosing Styrofoam plates you choose paper plates. You avoid the plastic bag, toss it in your own reusable bag, and beat feet back home. After the party, you toss the used plates in the recycle bin.

And go to bed feeling great.

In that situation, not only did you take several earth-friendly steps, but you also got a bit of exercise which, in itself, helps boost your mood.

This month, start getting in the habit of going green! Not only will you be helping the environment, but you’ll also be helping your mind.

If you’re interested in incorporating green behavior into your personal recovery plan, I suggest checking out the World Wildlife Fund website – especially their tips on helping the environment in your everyday life.