Don’t worry. I’m not going to tell you to hug a tree. But I am here to prove that it’s okay to break the norm and wear a green heart on your sleeve instead of a red one.

And no, you don’t have to dance barefoot the woods to become “one” with the earth.

Say “hey” to your house plants. Water those potted plants you’ve forgotten about…you know, the one hanging from your living room ceiling that Mom gave you. Paying more attention to the earth’s little beauties can help you take your mind off things (and people!) that aggravate you during the day. If you practice taking better care of plants just by watering them, there’s a good chance you’ll start taking better care of yourself, too. Think: symbolism. We all need affection, water and sunlight for growth and survival.

Go for a run or walk outside instead of hitting the treadmill at the gym. If unpleasant weather keeps you from going outside, do some kind of exercise that doesn’t involve machines that use a lot of electricity. There’s nothing wrong with going crazy dancing around the room with your iPod!

Make an eco-friendly cleaning solution. Mix two parts hydrogen peroxide (a natural, safe antibacterial agent) and one part water with a few drops lavender and/or peppermint oi (any essential oil will work). Pour into a spray bottle and use as a cleaner for kitchen and bathroom. Also, try replacing a harsh cleanser powder with baking soda. You’ll get a fresh, clean scent instead of a bleachy odor.

Turn off the faucet. We’ve all been guilty of letting the water run at some point. Most of the time, we do it unconsciously. Sometimes, we do it just because we can. But to help save money and the planet, try brushing your teeth with a designated amount of water in a glass or canteen. You’ll be surprised to see how little water you’ll need.

Visit a recycled book store. While e-books prevent the waste of paper and ink, many people just don’t want to stop relishing the smell of paperbacks and hard covers. Once in a while, check out a used book store for a noseful of nostalgia. It’s a great way to save paper and cash.

These are just a handful of things you can do to show love and gratitude for Mother Earth, who shares her amazing creatures with us!