Wednesday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• The “Miracle Tree” taking on microplastics

• A simple trick for overthinking less

• A new shopping tradition

• Nature spot of the week: Isle of Skye, Scotland

• Is art worth investing in?

Did You Know

___ your clothes can help reduce household energy use.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

The “Miracle Tree” Taking On Microplastics

Microplastics can feel like one of those invisible problems that is hard to picture. They are tiny bits of plastic that come from everyday things like clothing, tires, paint, and packaging. Because they are so small, they can slip into waterways and be difficult to fully remove from drinking water.

A new study found that seeds from the moringa tree may help. Researchers tested an extract made from moringa seeds and found it removed more than 98% of one type of microplastic from water. It worked in a similar way to common water-cleaning chemicals by helping tiny plastic pieces clump together so they could be filtered out.

The hopeful part is that moringa grows quickly, needs little water, and has been used for water cleaning for centuries. Scientists still need to test it on a larger scale, but it’s a sweet reminder that nature often has practical ideas waiting to be rediscovered.

A Simple Trick for Overthinking Less

If your brain likes to turn one small worry into a full evening spiral, “worry scheduling” may help. The idea is simple: instead of letting anxious thoughts interrupt your whole day, you set aside a specific 10- to 30-minute window to think through them on purpose.

This approach comes from cognitive behavioral therapy, which focuses on noticing and reshaping unhelpful thought patterns. When a worry pops up outside your chosen time, you gently tell yourself, “Not right now, but later.” You’re not ignoring the thought. You’re giving it a place to go so it doesn’t take over everything else.

To try it, choose the same time each day, ideally not right before bed. Write your worries down, then ask what you can actually control. If there’s a small next step, note it. If not, practice letting the feeling sit without solving it. When the timer ends, do something calming, like reading, texting a friend, or watching a comfort show.

The Vermont Country Store — Make it a Tradition

Welcome to The Vermont Country Store! Since 1946, the Orton Family Business has offered an incredible assortment of unique and useful products and a shopping experience unlike any other. Find new favorites like our exclusive bedding and sleepwear, heirloom-quality Mountain Weavers table linens, genuine Irish wool sweaters, and baked goods made from treasured family recipes. Rediscover beloved brands from the past, like Tangee, Lemon Up, and Mason Pearson. There’s more in store every time you shop to make each visit even better than the last.

Make your experience extra special! Free shipping on orders of $75 or more.

Thank you to Vermont Country Store for sponsoring The Canopy.

Nature Spot of the Week: Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and take the long way. Set off Scotland’s west coast, the island is known for misty mountains, dramatic sea cliffs, colorful harbor towns, and roads that wind through scenery that feels almost unreal.

Some of Skye’s most loved natural spots include the Old Man of Storr, a towering rock formation shaped by an ancient landslide, and the Fairy Pools, where clear waterfalls gather beneath the Cuillin Mountains. Along the coast, visitors may spot otters, seals, dolphins, puffins, and sea eagles, especially on boat trips from Portree.

Skye also carries deep layers of history, from dinosaur footprints and Iron Age towers to castles tied to old Scottish clans. It’s a place where nature and story seem to overlap, whether you’re walking a windy trail, watching clouds move across the hills, or warming up after a rainy afternoon. A visit here feels like a reminder that some landscapes are best experienced slowly.

Thank you to Masterworks for sponsoring The Canopy.

Quick Picks:

From starry nights to cozy hosting ideas, here are today’s cozy picks:

• 🌠 When to watch the Lyrid Meteor Shower in 2026

• 🎶 A dinner party playlist with the perfect vibe

• 🥤 How to make a café-style smoothie at home

Reflections:

🌎 Did You Know: Line-drying your clothes can help reduce household energy use.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured!