How to celebrate Earth Day's 50th anniversary while following stay-at-home orders.

April 22, 2020 marks 50 years celebrating Earth Day, a holiday that is very important to us here at Kaia Earth.

From the outset of the business, owner Gloria Onderdonk ensured that Kaia Earth lived up to its four core values: beauty, sustainability, love, and giving back. She quickly joined 1% for the Planet, an initiative that establishes a commitment to donating 1% of Kaia Earth’s sales to nonprofit organizations whose mission is to protect the environment.

We’re experiencing an unprecedented time with the coronavirus pandemic, so Earth Day celebrations are a little different this year and most of us will have to honor the earth from home due to social distancing restrictions. So step outside and notice the animals around you: The birds flying gracefully in the sky, the squirrels prancing around and climbing trees, and dogs running about and barking in yards.

There’s a saying that depression means you’re dwelling on the past and anxiety is when you’re worrying about the future. Animals, however, are ever-present, always living in the moment. In this way, animals are a reflection of our inner child, reminding us to slow down and enjoy the present moment like we did when we were young.

In times of stress, anxiety, despair, etc., we can turn to animals and pets for comfort. Pets have a way to communicate with us without words. We can tell when our pet is hungry, wants a treat, wants to go outside, or wants cuddles. In the same way, pets can wordlessly read our moods. They know if we’re upset or if we’re happy. Pets are forgiving creatures who love us unconditionally. The bond between humans and animals is a special relationship that shouldn’t be ignored or taken for granted.

So on Earth Day, stay present. If you have a pet, look to them for guidance on living in the moment. Many dogs are thrilled by running outside. It’s a brand new scene for them every time. There may be a squirrel or a bird for them to chase after, or a neighbor strolling by for them to greet. Animals can find joy and serenity in every moment. It’s time we try to toss our human nature to the side and try enjoying the present moment like the animals around us.

Happy Earth Day.