Each April, we pause to reflect on the Earth, and by extension, ourselves. This year’s Earth Day theme, “Power Our Planet,” asks us to consider the energy we use to run our homes, communities and lives—and how it affects both the planet and our bodies. It’s a timely, powerful theme.

We often talk about climate change through a lens of rising seas, melting ice caps and stronger storms, but we rarely connect energy use to personal health. Pollution from fossil fuels is tied to asthma, heart disease, cancer and shorter lifespans. Studies show that air pollution has shaved about two years off the global average lifespan, and the mental toll of environmental destruction and climate anxiety continues to grow.

What we burn to power our lives shapes the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat and the health we carry. Energy is not just a utility, it’s a health decision—a moral decision. The Bible reminds us our world was made for us and entrusted to us. Genesis tells us God created the Earth, called it good, and gave us the role of stewards—not dominators. This planet was lovingly prepared for us, but its abundance isn’t infinite or guaranteed. That’s why Earth Day isn’t just about the environment—it is also spiritual and existential.

As I think about the deep ties between energy and health, I recall Ecclesiastes: “The wise have eyes in their heads, while the fool walks in darkness.” We can’t ignore the consequences of our choices. We know better. We must do better. That means embracing renewable energy. Solar, wind, geothermal—these don’t poison our water or pollute our air. They don’t warm the planet to extremes or wreck ecosystems. Instead, they power our lives in sync with nature. They’re sustainable and reflect wise, faithful stewardship.

This shift isn’t just about melting glaciers or polar bears. It’s about the lungs of children in South Dallas and Plano. It’s about giving our elders more healthy years. It’s about mental health, equity and dignity. Here’s a daily example: long school pickup lines, especially in affluent areas. Cars idling for blocks, many of them non-electric, quietly but consistenly and persistently degrading the air we breathe. It’s seems to be a small thing, but multiplied, it matters.

At Natural Awakenings DFW, we’ve always believed that green living is healthy living. Reducing energy use, making homes more efficient, driving less, eating sustainably—these aren’t just eco-choices, they’re acts of self-care. Eating organic protects your body and the soil. Walking or biking improves fitness and cuts emissions. Installing solar panels shrinks reliance on polluting fuels. Eating fresh, local food lowers emissions and gives you back control over your health.

We’re at a crossroads. Stick with outdated, harmful energy or move toward a future that respects life in all forms. The tools exist. The knowledge exists. Support is growing. What’s needed now is the will—not just in April, but every day.

In this issue, you’ll find stories and ideas at the intersection of energy, health and spirit. From simple ways to reduce your footprint to local changemakers leading the way, we aim to inform and empower because caring for the planet means caring for ourselves. It’s not either/or—it’s always both. This Earth Day, ask yourself: “What powers my life? And what kind of world does it create?” Then choose wisely. Choose with love. Choose with faith that a better future is still within reach.

Blessings until next month,