5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day

“By developing a sense of respect for others and a concern for their welfare we reduce our own selfishness, which is the source of all problems, and enhance our sense of kindness, which is a natural source of goodness.” –The Dalai Lama

Join the over 1 billion people from around the globe that will celebrate Earth Day this Friday, April 22, 2011. We’ve cultivated some great tips from around the web:

Green Out Your Community
The folks over at Gaiam Life Blog came up with 5 Best Ways to ‘Green Out’ Your Town. Ideas include organizing a walk to school group, getting involved with local political discussions that effect environmental policy, and creating a community garden.

Pledge an Act, Save Our Planet
Post your “Pledge of Green” over at the official Earth Day Network’s Billion Acts of Green website. Your pledge can be something as simple as, I pledge to always use reusable grocery bags to something as grand as I pledge to organize a clothing swap in my neighborhood. Create your own clever action item and share it with others today.

Educate Yourself with Earth Day TV
Check out Earth Day TV for lessons and resources about Earth Day celebrations from around the world. Watch videos on environmental topics like Alternative Energy, Global Warming, and Green Living, and also get ideas for bringing Earth Day lessons into the classroom.

Plant a Tree, for Free!
Lowes is giving away 1 million free trees this Earth Day. Visit Lowe’s Earth Day 2011 to find a store near you, get tips on planting your tree, and then share your tree planting story. Start a family tradition of planting a tree each Earth Day in your yard or somewhere in your community.

Practice Ahimsa
As Yogis, we try to practice ahimsa in all our actions. Ahimsa is the practice of non-injury to ourselves, others, and all beings. Earth Day is an opportunity to extend our practice of ahimsa to include Mother Earth. Renew your commitment of kindness to all living things this Friday.