How to Celebrate Mason Jar Day for a Better You!

If you’ve ever felt an urge to reconnect with nature, find solace from the dizzying pace of modern life, or discover a new form of celebration that deviates from excessive consumerism? Then, I’ve got a gem of a holiday for you: National Mason Jar Day. And let me tell you, the importance of embracing such a alternative holiday has never been more crucial than it is right now.

In this article, I’ll share:

• The background of National Mason Jar Day
• When National Mason Jar Day is celebrated
• A look at the holiday from various perspectives: history, sociology, biology
• Two ways to celebrate National Mason Jar Day: simple vs elaborate
• Additional resources should you decide you’d like to learn more about mason jars, fermentation, and the impact ofplastic waste

You see, America is facing a growing crisis: plastic waste is surging, filling our oceans and landfills.

According to a study published in Science Advances, the U.S. alone produced 42 million metric tons of plastic waste in 2016. And it’s not just big items that are the problem; it’s the small, single-use plastics and disposables that start infiltrating our daily decisions.

From that disposable coffee cup to the plastic wrap covering your sandwich, these seemingly inconsequential choices snowball into larger habits. Before you know it, even larger purchases are made with a single-use mentality, quickly ending up as waste.

Enter National Mason Jar Day—a day that challenges us to think differently about how we store, consume, and celebrate. Celebrating National Mason Jar Day shifts our collective focus to the humble yet versatile glass jar. We can all take a step toward reducing waste and making more sustainable choices. It’s a change that starts small but has wide-reaching implications, not only for your peace of mind but also for our planet.

So, let’s dig deeper into why National Mason Jar Day is more than just a nod to a kitchen staple. It’s a call to action for us to live more intentionally and sustainably. Shall we? 🌱🌻

Historical Context of National Mason Jar Day

The mason jar, a seemingly humble object, has had a fascinating journey since it was patented in 1858 by John Landis Mason. Originally designed for canning and preserving food, the mason jar revolutionized food storage, making it easier for families to keep food fresh, safe, and in-season all year round.

Date of Celebration: Simply Perfect Timing!

Here’s the date to circle on your calendar — November 30th is when we celebrate National Mason Jar Day. You might be thinking, “Hey, that’s right after Thanksgiving!” and you’re absolutely correct! We know many of our readers, like yourselves, partake in modern holidays such as Thanksgiving. The timing couldn’t be more perfect.

At my house, we’ve long said goodbye to plastic Tupperware; instead, mason jars—both large and small—are the heroes of our post-Thanksgiving leftover scene. They’re perfect for storing extra mashed potatoes, green beans, and even that last slice of pumpkin pie. They can also be stuck in the deep freezer! So, not only can you honor the humble mason jar on its special day, but you can also give it a role of honor for your holiday leftovers. It’s a seamless transition from one celebration to another, all while being eco-conscious.

Connection with Pagan Culture

For those of you who, like me, are keen on learning what traditions our ancestors followed, the mason jar has a unique relevance. It embodies values like sustainability and resourcefulness. Many pagan (pre-Christian) traditions honor the Earth and its cycles, and what better way to do that than by preserving nature’s bounty in a reusable container?

Importance from Various Perspectives

Historical Context: A Journey Through Time and Utility

Mason jars played a critical role in American history. They allowed families to store food securely, reducing reliance on processed and potentially contaminated goods. For an enlightening read, check out “Pure and Modern Milk: An Environmental History” by Kendra Smith-Howard, which touches on the role of jars in food preservation.

The Mason jar, a seemingly straightforward object, has a rich and impactful history. It was patented by John Landis Mason on November 30, 1858, which is why we celebrate National Mason Jar Day on that date each year. Mason was a tinsmith who saw the need for a better method of preserving food. Before the Mason jar, food preservation was a complicated affair often involving salt, sugar, and even less reliable techniques that made long-term food storage risky.

Made primarily from soda-lime glass, Mason jars come with a metal screw-on lid, which creates an airtight seal, essential for preserving food. The original Mason jars had a zinc screw-on cap, which has since been replaced by aluminum or stainless steel in many modern variants. Brands like Ball, Kerr, and Bernardin have become household names, further enhancing the Mason jar’s status as a reliable tool for various purposes.

But let’s go beyond food preservation. In the past, Mason jars have been used for a wide array of purposes. During World War II, for example, they were used to store medical supplies and specimens. In the early 20th century, they served as containers for milk deliveries. And let’s not forget their role in homemade jams, jellies, and pickles that were often gifted to neighbors and friends, strengthening community bonds.

Thus, the Mason jar has been a multi-functional tool, standing the test of time for over 160 years. It has enabled families to be more self-reliant and communities more interconnected, qualities that are just as valuable today as they were in the past.

Sociological Background of the Holiday

From a sociological standpoint, mason jars have evolved to symbolize community, DIY culture, and anti-consumerism. Studies like “The Sociology of Consumption: A Global Approach” by Joel Stillerman highlight how shifts toward sustainable practices can have wide-reaching societal impacts.

Biological Perspective of Using More Mason Jars (and Less Plastic)

Biologically speaking, there are advantages to using glass jars for food storage, not least of which is avoiding the harmful chemicals often found in plastic containers. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives noted that food stored in glass had fewer chemical contaminants.

Mason Jar Day is all about replacing harmful oil based plastics with traditional glass. If you’re interested in learning more about the potential negative impact of plastics on your health, then I highly recommend this scientific article from Environmental Health Perspectives.

Impact of Microplastics on Human Health

This information is summarized from the scholarly article linked above. If you’re not interested in digging into the health impacts of microplastics, then please skip ahead to the Mason Jar celebration ideas!

• Toxic Properties:
  • Microplastics come in various shapes and sizes, which can physically stimulate and potentially harm the human body.
  • They can carry and release endocrine disruptors, leading to potential cancers and reproductive-system disorders.
  • Microplastics can also adsorb heavy metals and organic pollutants, posing additional threats.
• Respiratory System:
  • Chronic exposure to airborne microplastics may be associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Inhalation can cause oxidative stress, leading to symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath.
  • High concentrations of certain plastics can increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Digestive System:
  • Ingestion can physically irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to inflammation and symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating.
  • Microplastics may disrupt the balance of intestinal microbiome, leading to digestive issues.
  • Chemical toxicity includes absorption of environmental toxins like heavy metals.
• Endocrine & Reproductive Systems:
  • Microplastics can disrupt hormone production, metabolism, and elimination.
  • Potential results include metabolic, developmental, and reproductive disorders, such as infertility.
  • Microplastics were found in the placentas of some pregnant women, highlighting potential prenatal exposure risks.
• Immune System:
  • Microplastics may induce chronic inflammation and regulate genes/proteins involved in immune responses.
  • In vitro and in vivo studies show inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism disturbances, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and neurotoxicity.
• Neurological Impacts:
  • Exposure has been linked to cognitive dysfunction, changes in locomotor function, and anticholinesterase activity in mice.
  • Certain nanoparticles can accumulate in the central nervous system, causing neuron damage.

How to Celebrate National Mason Jar Day

Alright, let’s get back to the fun stuff! Here are two ways to celebration National Mason Jar Day.

Simple Celebration: Mason Jar Gratitude Jar

Time Required: 10-15 minutes to set up, a few minutes throughout the day

Materials Needed:

• One Mason Jar
• Small pieces of paper or notecards
• A pen or pencil
• Optional: Ribbons or stickers for decoration

Instructions:

1. Start by Decorating: Take your Mason jar and feel free to decorate it with ribbons or stickers to make it your own. This step is optional but adds a personal touch. (Time: 3-5 minutes)
2. Label Your Jar: You can write “Gratitude Jar” or another meaningful label on one of the pieces of paper, fold it, and place it inside or simply stick it onto the jar. (Time: 2 minutes)
3. Place It Strategically: Put your Mason Jar in a place you frequently pass by at home—maybe the kitchen counter or near your front door. (Time: 1 minute)
4. Daily Prompts: Throughout the day, use these specific prompts to help you think about what you’re grateful for.
   • Morning: What am I looking forward to today?
   • Afternoon: What made me smile so far today?
   • Evening: What is one thing I learned today that I’m grateful for?
5. Jot and Drop: Write down your answers to these prompts on the small pieces of paper and drop them into the jar. (Time: 2-3 minutes per entry)

Why This Works:

This simple yet powerful practice can easily be incorporated into your busy 9-to-5 life. This practice is accessible to everyone and can be especially meaningful. According to a study published by Harvard Health, practicing gratitude can significantly improve your well-being. Each time you pass by your Mason Jar, it’s not just a container; it’s a reminder to pause and reflect on the good in your life.

So why not take 15 minutes out of your day to set this up? It’s a small investment of time that promises to yield enriching returns for your soul.

Elaborate Celebration: A Day of Food Preservation and Fermentation

Time Required: 4-6 hours depending on recipes chosen

Materials Needed:

• Multiple Mason jars of varying sizes
• Fruits and/or vegetables for preservation
• Fermentation ingredients (like sugar, salt, whey, or starter cultures)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large mixing bowls
• Optional: Labels and markers for dating and identifying your jars

Instructions:

1. Plan Ahead: A day or two before, decide what foods you’ll be preserving and fermenting. This will determine the size and number of Mason jars you’ll need. (Time: 15-30 minutes)
2. Ingredient Prep: On the day, start by cleaning and cutting your chosen fruits or vegetables. (Time: 30-60 minutes)
3. Sterilize Jars: Sterilize your Mason jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. (Time: 15 minutes)
4. Recipe Time: Choose between pickling, canning, or fermenting your food. Here are example recipes for each:
   • Pickled cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers, white vinegar, salt, dill, garlic.
   • Canned peaches: Fresh peaches, sugar, water.
   • Fermented sauerkraut: Fresh cabbage, salt.
   You can find more recipes at websites like Ball® Fresh Preserving or in books dedicated to food preservation. (Time: 2-3 hours)
5. Jar Filling: Carefully place your food into the sterilized Mason jars, following your chosen recipe. (Time: 30 minutes)
6. Seal and Store: Seal your jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place, or according to the recipe’s specifications. (Time: 15 minutes)
7. Labeling: If you’ve opted for labels, mark each jar with its contents and the date it was made. (Time: 10 minutes)

Personal Recommendation: For those particularly interested in the art of fermentation, I highly recommend picking up a copy of "The Art of Fermentation" by Sandor Ellix Katz. This book was my "bible" and introduction to many fermentation practices that I've slowly started integrating into my life. It’s an indispensable resource if you’re keen on diving deep into the world of natural preservation and reaping the health benefits that come with it.

Why This Works:

This elaborate celebration is more than just a cooking project; it’s a way to reconnect with age-old practices of food preservation that have profound ecological and health benefits. According to a report from the National Institutes of Health, fermented foods can aid in digestion and even boost your immune system. Plus, by preserving foods yourself, you’re reducing the need for commercially-packaged goods, thereby cutting down on waste.

So there you have it—a day well-spent, honoring the humble yet versatile Mason jar while also doing your bit for the planet and your well-being.

Wrap-Up: Choose Your Own Path

My friends, whether you opt for a simple gratitude jar or a full-blown harvest festival, the most important thing is that you celebrate in a way that aligns with your values and beliefs. You have the power to pick and choose the holidays you celebrate, create your own traditions, and redefine what happiness and meaningful living are for you.

Additional Resources

• “The Art of Fermentation” by Sandor Ellix Katz for those keen on delving deeper into food preservation.
• “The Zero-Waste Lifestyle: Live Well by Throwing Away Less” by Amy Korst for practical tips on a sustainable life.
• 50 Ways to Kick Plastic on Zero Waste Chef’s Website

Wrapping up

National Mason Jar Day is not just a day to celebrate a piece of glassware; it’s an opportunity to reflect on how we live and what we value. So, how will you celebrate this unique day? I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your celebrations—share them in the comments below.

Here’s to crafting a life that’s uniquely yours, one mason jar at a time.

Happy National Mason Jar Day! 🌱🌻