8 Meaningful Ways to Spend Earth Hour

Earth Hour, which first took place in 2007, is a symbolic act designed to get people thinking about our planet and our impact on it. The event is held annually, encouraging individuals, communities, and businesses to turn off non-essential electric lights, for one hour on a specific day towards the end of March, as a symbol of commitment to the planet. In essence it is a simple idea to begin an environmental movement — this isn't just about one hour in the dark it's about creating a brighter future.

Interesting Fact: 2016 WWF-Spain’s Earth Hour campaign led to 50,000 citizens urging the Spanish government to phase out fossil fuels and transition to renewables to uphold its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

This year Earth Hour will be observed from 8:30pm to 9:30pm on Saturday, 26th March 2022.

If you are planning to join Earth Hour, this year, and do your bit towards preservation of environment, you don't have to sit in the dark twiddling your thumbs. You can still do a lot without using a single watt of electricity. Earth Hour can be as much fun as it is beneficial to the environment and if you're looking for some entertaining ways to spend it, you're in luck because we've compiled a list of enjoyable activities.

GO FOR A NIGHT WALK

Take a night walk or go Stargazing to get closer to nature while also doing something good for your health and well-being. A perfect star-gazing hour requires only darkness, a blanket, and hot beverages

WORKING OUT IN THE DARK

Within that hour, try to break a sweat and raise your heart rate by doing your favourite workout. Gather your friends, light some candles, and consider ways to extend your commitment to climate action beyond Earth Hour.

DINE IN THE DARK

Dinners with candles aren't just for Valentine's Day! This Earth Hour, dine in the dark and prepare some homemade dishes. Stay in and use the Hour to spend quality time with those who are important to you - a fantastic opportunity to make special memories and be close to the people for whom you are working to create a better future. Call a family member or a friend you haven't seen in a long time. Check-in on them and invite them to spend the Hour with you virtually.

PARTICIPATE IN A LOCAL EARTH HOUR EVENT

There are a variety of virtual and on-the-ground events planned around the world, ranging from live events hosted by local influencers and artists to guided meditation sessions so you can spend the Hour with people from your city, country, and all over the world!

UNPLUGGED JAMMING SESSIONS

Invite some friends over and unplug while listening to some house music. Compose music using nature sounds or write a song with lyrics about nature and our planet.

CONNECT WITH NATURE

If you don't feel like working your body that night, try working your creative mind! Try some night photography or "light painting". you can upcycle something from around the house or your closet or Try painting with non-toxic glow-in-the-dark neon paint.

UP YOUR KNOWLEDGE

The first step before taking action is to become aware. Use the Hour to learn more about our amazing planet, the challenges we face, and what we can do to change things. Discover how to be more sustainable in your daily life, and write down some action points that you think you can undertake to be more sustainable.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY

There's no need to feel embarrassed about your dance moves just put on your headphones and dance along with your favourite music and could battle it out with your friends or family.

All in all, The Earth Hour is a time to reflect on the beautiful world we all share and how we must protect it. Take advantage of this time to live more sustainable and a healthy lifestyle.

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Content Credit: Earthhour.org

Written By: Deshna Jain