Why 1% For the Planet?
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
I have always loved nature, ever since growing up in Iowa. I was constantly on my grandparents' farm, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the countryside – the hum of the tractor, the gentle presence of cattle, the soothing sounds of chickens clucking, and pigs oinking. Countless hours were spent in the woods hunting with my dad, witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat. Being in nature has an undeniable magic that deeply resonated with me.
Now, as an adult, my affinity for the outdoors has only grown stronger. Most of my recreational time is spent in nature with my wife, Kelly, and our four kids. In the winter, you'll find us carving through the snow-capped mountains on our skis. As the weather warms, we transition to camping and mountain biking, relishing in the freedom of the open trails. And at home, we nurture our own urban oasis – an eclectic mix of goats, chickens, bees, a duck, over 25 fruit trees, and our beloved annual vegetable garden. It's my sanctuary, my place of Zen.
In the winter, you'll find us carving through the snow-capped mountains on our skis.
With age comes wisdom, and I've come to realize the profound impact that the health of our planet has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our bodies are intricately connected to the environment around us. The quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat directly influences our vitality.
In early 2013, I was introduced to a book that would fundamentally shift my perspective – "Let My People Go Surfing" by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia. Through the story of Patagonia's journey, I gleaned a powerful lesson: without a healthy planet, our businesses, no matter how successful, are inherently unsustainable. Inspired by Chouinard's vision, I made it my mission to leverage my business for good.
As a physical therapist, I am committed to helping individuals recover from injuries, improve their fitness, and lead fulfilling lives. But beyond that, I recognize that our well-being is intricately linked to the health of our environment. That's why, in 2013, Experience Momentum made the decision to join the 1% For The Planet network – a commitment that has been immensely gratifying.
Since then, Experience Momentum has partnered with numerous environmental nonprofits, both locally and globally, to support initiatives that protect and restore our planet. From volunteering with EarthCorps, Conservation Northwest, and Puget Soundkeepers to embarking on international trips to Thailand and the Dominican Republic, our team has been deeply involved in efforts to preserve natural habitats and promote sustainability.
One of the most impactful experiences was our journey to Thailand in 2018, where we worked alongside local communities to plant trees, restore forests, and foster sustainable livelihoods. The trip reaffirmed my belief in the power of collective action and the profound impact that each of us can make when we come together for a common purpose.
As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." This simple yet profound mantra has guided me on my journey, prompting me to reflect on the changes I want to see and take action to bring them to fruition. And I've come to realize that real change begins with each of us – with our choices, our actions, and our willingness to challenge the status quo.
So, to each and every one of our customers, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. It is because of your support that Experience Momentum is able to champion environmental causes and strive for a healthier planet. Through our collective efforts, we are working towards a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.
Thank you for being a part of our journey and for joining us in our mission to be the change we wish to see in the world.
Written by Shanon Tysland | Founder, CEO at Experience Momentum
We put action behind our words!
Experience Momentum has partnered with numerous environmental nonprofits, both locally and globally, to support initiatives that protect and restore our planet.
Help us give back this Earth Month
During Earth Month at Experience Momentum we aim to inspire individuals to take action for both personal health and the health of the planet. We want to highlight and understand the symbiotic relationship between staying active and protecting the environment. Through various fitness activities and eco-friendly initiatives we all can sweat it out for a cause bigger than themselves!
Week 1
Take a quiz to better understand your environmental footprint, heck, why not take them all! If we know what behaviors consume more resources we can be mindful of our choices. What footprint do you want to learn more about? Find out your Carbon Footprint, Water Footprint, Plastic Footprint, Ecological Footprint
Week 2
Watch an environmental documentary to better understand what is happening with climate change and environmental advocacy. The more information we know about the state of the environment and climate change, the more likely we are to take action. These movies really put the issue at the front of our mind to understand what is going on and the urgency that changes need to be made. We have some recommendations: Kiss the Ground (Netflix), Before the Flood (Disney+), 2040 (amazon prime video & tubi), and Breaking Boundaries (Netflix)
Week 3
Sweat for the Environment! Join us at Sweat for the Environment in Lynnwood on April 20th for a partner workout from 8am - 2pm! There will be three tests throughout the day: one endurance-based, one strength-based, and one WOD where you will compete to choose what environmental non-profit EM gives donations to. Stay after the workout from 2-5pm for the community clean up, drinks, snacks, and a BBQ. More specifics to come! Can't make it? Get outside! Go for a hike, take a long walk on your lunch break and connect with your natural surroundings. We have a symbiotic relationship between staying active and protecting the environment. We can move to better connect to our environment and celebrate the planet that we exist on.
Week 4
Give nature some love. Whether that is volunteering, planting something in your garden, or re-potting a plant. Physically connecting with nature and getting our hands in dirt is great for us. We are bettering our planet with each act of connection whether it is removing invasive species at a park or giving our house plants some new soil for nutrients.
Volunteer opportunities through the month: Mt Rainier Park 4/27, Sacajawea Playground 4/13, Golden Gardens Restoration 4/13, Volunteer Park Work Party 4/13
Post a photo and tag Experience Momentum
Each week as you complete initiatives post photos and tag us! Use the hashtag #EMEarthMonth2024 #sweatfortheenvironment2024 so we can see all of the awesome things you are up to.
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