Happy Earth Day 2021!
When we practice sustainable living, we become aware of our impact on the planet and start making conscious choices that do less harm. Perhaps we bike to work instead of driving. Or maybe we reduce our use of plastic and commit to only using eco-friendly products.
For the Red Yao, living sustainably has always been part of their culture. So, this Earth Day, we want to celebrate the sustainable practices that have kept them living in harmony and balance with nature for thousands of years.
Here’s what living sustainably looks like for the Red Yao--
Self-Sustaining Lifestyle
Masters at living a self-sustained lifestyle, the Red Yao has a long history of making or growing whatever they need. Many still grow their own food, weave beautiful clothing, and make personal care items (like shampoo!) and medicinal products with traditional plants and flowers.
In Harmony with the Rhythm of Nature
Living in harmony with the rhythm of nature means the Red Yao sleep and wake in sync with the sun, rising at dawn and winding down at dusk. And workdays are based around the weather-- working hard when the weather is favorable and resting when it’s not. Aligning with these rhythms and cycles of the planet brings an increased awareness of the connection between self and nature.
A Balance of Give and Take
Understanding how to maintain a balance with nature comes naturally to the Red Yao. And they consider how their actions today will impact not only the Earth but future generations as well. One example of this is their approach to building a home. Wherever a tree is chopped down to use for building material, a new tree is planted on the same spot to preserve the balance and ensure future generations will also have access to wood.
Sustaining Culture: Family and Community
Today the Red Yao are engaged in a different kind of sustainability effort: sustaining their culture. Living in harmony with family and community is deeply important to the Red Yao. And it’s through family and community that their culture is preserved and passed from generation to generation.
Sadly, in response to severe economic pressure, much of the younger generation has left the village for opportunities elsewhere. Which means cultural wisdom is at risk of being lost. Still, if you visit, you’ll find lively festivals and celebrations that are helping to keep traditions alive.
The Red Yao has always lived in rhythm with nature, so sustainable practices come naturally to them. For some of us, changing our habits to be more sustainable can be more of a challenge. But even small steps can make a big difference if we all work together. That’s why we’re committed to a planet-friendly, people-friendly approach to making Viori.
We’d love to know -- how are you celebrating Earth Day 2021?
