Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Earth Day is coming up in less than 30 days! Earth Day is always observed on the 22nd of April. It is a great day to spend outside with friends. Research has shown that spending time looking at the blue sky can improve mood for several reasons, both psychological and physiological:
Exposure to Natural Light
Sunlight exposure increases the brain’s release of serotonin, a hormone associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused.
Natural light helps regulate your circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality, which is closely linked to mood.
Color Psychology
The color blue is often associated with calmness, relaxation, and peace. Studies in color psychology suggest that blue tones can help lower stress and anxiety levels. Here is a podcast on Why We Should Look Up at the Sky (The Science of Happiness Podcast)
Connection with Nature
Humans have an innate tendency to connect with nature. Looking at natural scenes, like the sky, trees, or water, can reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Time spent in nature, or even just looking at the sky, allows the mind to rest and recover from mental fatigue.
Mindfulness and Presence
Watching the clouds drift or focusing on the vastness of the sky can serve as a form of mindfulness or meditation, which is shown to reduce stress and improve overall mood.
Break from Screens and Routine
Looking away from screens, even for a few minutes, and focusing on the sky provides a break that can refresh your mind and improve your mood. Spending time looking at the blue sky combines the benefits of natural light, calming color, connection with nature, mindfulness, and a break from routine—all of which can contribute to a better mood and reduced stress. Even just a few minutes a day, especially during sunny weather, can make a noticeable difference! Make sure to spend some time in nature this April especially during Earth day. Here are some ideas on what to do on that day:
- Go for a hike in a local park or nature reserve.
- Have a picnic using reusable containers and local food.
- Visit a botanical garden or arboretum.
- Birdwatching – bring binoculars and a guidebook or app.
- Take a nature walk and identify plants, trees, or wildflowers.
- Participate in a local cleanup (park, beach, river, or neighborhood).
- Plant a tree or native plants in your yard or community.
- Start a pollinator garden for bees and butterflies.
- Collect recyclables in your area or at a local event.
- Attend an Earth Day event or festival in your area.
- Take a guided nature walk or join a wildlife talk.
- Visit a local farm or ecofriendly business for a tour.
- Attend sustainable living workshop outdoors (composting, gardening, etc.)
Whatever you choose, remember to enjoy the outdoors during earth day, appreciate your environment, and give back to the planet!