Planetary well-being refers to the holistic approach to promoting the health and sustainability of the planet and all its ecosystems. It goes beyond individual well-being and considers the interconnectedness between human well-being and the health of the environment. The concept recognizes that our actions and choices impact the earth and aims to foster practices that support both personal and planetary health. In recent years, there has been an increasing awareness and concern about environmental issues, climate change, and the need for sustainable practices. This growing consciousness has led to the rise of eco-conscious guests who prioritize sustainability and seek out hospitality chains that align with their values. As a result, planetary well-being has become a popular wellness trend within the hospitality industry.
During my recent stay at the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, I witnessed the conservation of precious natural resources, including land, water, air, and biodiversity. The hospitality group’s dedication to establish an harmonious and sustainable relationship between humanity and the environment is worth mentioning in today’s time and age. From actively seeking out suppliers that offer sustainable alternatives, organic products and partnering with local fishermen – the hotel chain is making a difference with their responsible practices. To minimize the environmental impact, they partner with suppliers who share common values and actively reduce their reliance on single-use packaging. When selecting products, they prioritize those that come with recyclable or reusable packaging, effectively minimizing our consumption of single-use plastic.
We spoke to Dr. Arun Tomson, Director of AyurMa and Naturopathy Physician at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, who shared some valuable insights and tips on the concept of planetary wellbeing.
Connect with Nature: Spend time in nature, whether it’s by visiting local parks, hiking trails or participating in conservation activities. Cultivate a deeper appreciation for the natural world and develop a sense of stewardship for the environment.
Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness and intentionality in your daily life. Consider the environmental impact of your choices and seek opportunities to make sustainable decisions. By being mindful of your actions, you can align your lifestyle with planetary well-being.
Consume seasonal and local Food: Choose locally grown seasonal organic and sustainably produced food whenever feasible. Support local farmers markets, grow your own vegetables & fruits and prioritize plant-based meals.
Choose Sustainable transportation: Opt for eco-friendly transportation options whenever possible. Use public transportation, carpool, cycle or walk instead of relying solely on private vehicles. This helps reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emission.
Reduce – Reuse – Recycle: Practice responsible waste management by reducing your consumption, reusing items whenever possible and recycling materials that can be recycled. This helps conserve resources, reduce landfill waste and minimize pollution.
Support Sustainable Businesses: Choose to support businesses that prioritize sustainable practices such as eco-friendly hotels, restaurants, stores that focus on ethically sourced products. By supporting these businesses, you contribute to the demand for sustainable practices and encourage others to follow suit.
Advocate and Educate: Raise awareness about environmental issues by sharing knowledge and information with others. Conserve water and energy.
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