The healing effects of being in nature are well known. Fresh air increases oxygen levels, necessary for every function in the human body. Sunlight helps us produce Vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immunity. And beyond the physical benefits, greenery and water have been shown to be both soothing and energising.

It is for these reasons that when nature suffers, so do humans. And that is why we must all play our part in protecting the planet.

How the environment affects health and wellbeing 

Air pollution: the burning of fossil fuels, heavy industry and agriculture release harmful gases and particulates into the air. These exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma, and over the long term can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and certain types of cancer.

Noise pollution: constant exposure to noise can cause stress and high blood pressure. In addition, noise can lead to interrupted or poor-quality sleep, both of which have been linked to all sorts of health problems, from heart disease to obesity to depression.

Water pollution: every living thing on earth requires water. Yet poor water management and sanitation, agricultural runoff and oil spills have not only made much of it undrinkable, but each year sickens approximate a billion people.

Soil pollution: the improper disposal of garbage, agriculture and mining can lead to abnormally high levels of chemicals in the soil. These then make their way into the food chain and into our bodies. Benzene, for example, can contribute to certain types of cancer, while lead causes permanent damage to the nervous system, especially in children.

Sustainable practices for wellbeing

While we may as individuals have less control over things like the quality of air we breathe, we can make conscious choices about what food we put in our bodies. Locally sourced food helps to minimise our carbon footprint, as well as support small-scale farmers who play vital roles in land stewardship. Organic food free from pesticides, chemical fertilisers, antibiotics and growth hormones are not only healthier for humans, but also for the environment.

We can also choose to consume less meat and dairy, which currently account for about 14% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The Western diet, in particular, can overemphasise these, which can lead to conditions such as obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. Instead, adopt consumption in moderation, along with a healthy balance of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and wholegrains.

Walking or cycling instead of driving again lowers our carbon footprint and harmful emissions, but they are also good for our health as cardiovascular exercise. And as we exercise outdoors, we benefit from breathing in fresh air, getting a healthy dose of sunlight for Vitamin D production and sleep regulation, and reducing our levels of stress.

Sustainability at Chiva-Som Hua Hin

From the very beginning, Chiva-Som Hua Hin was conceived of as a natural “Haven of Life”, where sustainability goes hand in hand with wellness, and guests can retreat to be at one with nature in seven acres of greenery overlooking the Gulf of Siam.

A dedicated CSR team sees that operations are as carbon neutral and environmentally friendly as possible, with continual technological upgrades to conserve energy and water, and advanced waste management and recycling programmes with the goal of zero landfill waste.

The resort is also dedicated to sourcing responsibly, replacing plastics with eco-friendly alternatives and growing produce in its own gardens as a member of IFOAM – Organics International. Its largest endeavour, the Krailart Niwate Mangrove Ecosystem Preservation Project, has seen 18 rai of wetlands reconstructed in Hua Hin.

Mangroves play a vital role in protecting the environment. They act as carbon sinks, breeding grounds for juvenile marine life, and protect against coastal erosion and extreme weather events such as tsunamis. Guests are invited to take part in regular planting days there, as well as generally enjoy the peace and soothing greenery.