Vol #26:👣 Walking on Sunshine

Hello there, dear reader,

This week, we have been experiencing a heat wave here in the US. This summer is special because it is the first summer where we have a backyard- and I recently entered my bird-watching era so things are getting quite interesting. Anyways, this post isn't about my backyard adventures, but it's close. It's about grass. No, not the kind you are thinking of.

The other day I found myself in the backyard feeling the cool grass beneath my feet. So like any normal millennial, I went into an internet rabbit hole about barefoot walking, and it turns out there's a whole field dedicated to it. It's called Earthing. Who would've thought? Research suggests that this practice has some profound health benefits, including reduced inflammation and an improvement in conditions like plantar fasciitis.

Now, we all know that being surrounded by green spaces is great for our mental health and stress levels, but here's the interesting bit—directly touching the ground can work wonders for our minds and bodies. Turns out that, the Earth has a subtle negative electrical charge, and connecting with it is good for us. Studies have shown better sleep, reduced stress, improved glucose regulation, and even enhanced immune function. Yet another way our human body’s connection to Earth has healing powers.

If you are an apartment dweller in a city, you can seek out a park close by - somewhere you can go regularly, perhaps on a walk or with a book.

If you live in a place with outdoor space, explore dedicating some space to this practice. However, the standard grass used for lawns isn't the most sustainable option due to its never-ending thirst for water. So, if you have some outdoor space, here are some eco-friendly alternatives:

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• Native Wildflower Meadows: Forget the traditional lawn and opt for native wildflower meadows that support biodiversity and attract lovely pollinators like bees and butterflies. It's a burst of color and nature's charm without the high maintenance!

• Permeable Pavers: If you're dealing with limited space or high-traffic areas, go for permeable pavers that create a green haven. These allow water to seep through, reducing runoff and helping replenish groundwater. Bonus points if you fill the gaps with drought-resistant plants!

• Moss Gardens: Want something unique and low-maintenance? Moss gardens are your answer! Thriving in shady areas, moss gardens require little watering and give your space a velvety feel.

• Xeriscaping: In arid regions, xeriscaping is the way to go. This water-saving landscape design offers a range of sustainable options, from desert-friendly plants to decorative rocks. It's both eco-friendly and visually appealing.

Ever noticed a lovely earthy scent of freshly mowed grass? Well, that's called "geosmin," a compound released by microorganisms in the grass. And did you know that even the smell of rain on dry ground—petrichor—also owes its lovely smell to geosmin? In fact, petrichor is a popular scent for perfumes nowadays.