Home 13 Simple Steps To Kickstart A Zero Waste Lifestyle At Home 4:55 PM 13 Simple Steps to Kickstart A Zero Waste Lifestyle at Home Ever thought about how much waste we generate as a society and the role we play? The statistics are shocking yet thought-provoking: only 9% of global plastic waste has ever been recycled. So, if you've been asking how we can make zero waste at home or how a zero-waste lifestyle can save you money, you're about to get your answers in this easy-to-follow guide. What is Zero Waste Lifestyle? The zero-waste lifestyle is more than just a buzzword—it's a commitment to live in a way that produces as little waste as possible. It's about finding ways to reduce waste, reuse items, and recycle what we can't reuse. But it's not only eco-friendly—it's economical too. You'd be surprised how a zero-waste lifestyle can save you money and contribute to your personal development. So, how to have a zero-waste lifestyle with minimum effort? Here are 13 zero-waste lifestyle tips that can jumpstart your journey.1. Start small.Like any other lifestyle change, it's best to start small. Begin by identifying easy waste to reduce in your daily routine. It could be that plastic water bottle you buy every day or the disposable coffee cups you use. If you're cooking with veggies. Instead of throwing the peels away, use them as compost or a veggie broth. Remember, every little bit counts. 2. Bring your own bags.Plastic bags contribute significantly to waste. A simple switch to reusable bags can drastically cut down on this. Reusable bags aren't just for groceries—they're also great for all shopping.3. Switch to reusable water bottles and coffee cups.Consider investing in a good-quality water bottle and coffee cup. You'll reduce waste and save money in the long run. For example, Super Sparrow is a certified Climate Pledge-friendly insulated water bottle with a beautiful design. It's great for when you travel or work out. 4. Buy in bulk.Buying in bulk can significantly reduce packaging waste. Choose stores that offer bulk goods, and remember to bring your reusable containers.5. Switch to loose-leaf tea.Did you know some tea bags contain plastic? Make a more sustainable choice by opting for loose-leaf tea. Or choose tea brands that use plastic-free and compostable materials, such as:Art of TeaLoose Leaf Tea MarketNumi TeaYogi Tea6. Consider using menstrual cups.Ladies, it's time to consider menstrual cups. They're not only reusable but also a healthier alternative to disposable products.7. Make your own cleaning products.It is common for cleaning products to be contained in plastic packaging that may contain harmful chemicals. Making your own can be cheaper, healthier, and less wasteful. Here are three DIY cleaning products that are sustainable and easy to make at home with simple ingredients. All-Purpose CleanerIngredients:1 cup of white vinegar1 cup of waterLemon rindRosemary sprigsInstructions: Combine the vinegar, water, and enough lemon rind and rosemary sprigs to create a pleasant scent in a spray bottle. Let the solution infuse for a week before using it. Shake the bottle before each use. You can use it on almost any surface but avoid using it on granite and marble, as vinegar can etch these surfaces.Glass CleanerIngredients:2 cups of water1/4 cup of white vinegar1/2 teaspoon of dish soapInstructions: Mix the ingredients together in a spray bottle. Shake the solution vigorously to ensure all ingredients are well mixed for optimal results. Next, apply the solution evenly onto glass surfaces and use a dry cloth or newspaper to wipe away the solution and achieve a flawless, streak-free shine.Grease CleanerIngredients:2 cups of hot water1 tablespoon of baking soda20 drops of lemon essential oilInstructions: Combine the hot water and baking soda, then add the lemon oil. Mix well until the baking soda dissolves, then transfer the mixture to a spray bottle. Spray the solution on greasy surfaces, leave it on for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.Each of these DIY cleaning products is not only effective but also contributes to a zero-waste lifestyle. They're made from natural ingredients, which are better for the environment and your health. Plus, by using reusable spray bottles, you're helping to cut down on plastic waste. So, not only are you keeping your home clean, but you're also doing your part for the environment. 8. Go digital.Opt for digital versions, from books to bills, whenever possible. It's one of the simplest ways to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle. Paying for your bills online is more convenient and quicker. I shifted to Kindle Paperwhite (thanks to my amazing and thoughtful husband!), and I've read 90 books this year. That's a significant difference from the 45 books I read last year. So, I've been shopping less, reading more, and helping the environment simultaneously. It's a win-win! 9. Say "no" to unnecessary packaging.Whether ordering takeout or buying groceries, it's not for you if it's wrapped in too much plastic. It's surprising how many products are over-packaged, resulting in unnecessary waste. Here are four examples:Individually Wrapped Items: Whether it's fruit, vegetables, or baked goods, individually wrapped items constitute a significant source of unnecessary packaging. For instance, a single banana or potato wrapped in a plastic film contributes to plastic waste and seems redundant since these items come with their own natural packaging.Multi-Layered Packaging: Many products come with multiple layers of packaging. For instance, a cereal box might come in a plastic bag, inside a cardboard box, wrapped in plastic again. The inner plastic bag and outer plastic wrap are usually unnecessary.Single-Serve Packages: While single-serve packages of snacks, drinks, or meals might be convenient, they contribute significantly to waste. For example, a bag of single-serve chips has much more packaging waste than a giant bag of the same product.Over-Packaged Online Deliveries: With the rise of e-commerce, the over-packaging of online orders has become quite common. Often, small items are shipped in large boxes filled with plastic air pillows or bubble wrap, which is excessive and wasteful.10. Repair, don't replace.Next time something breaks, try to repair it before replacing it. It can save you money and reduce waste. For example, before you discard that shirt with a missing button or those pants with a small tear, consider mending them. Basic sewing skills can save you a lot of money over time and reduce waste. You can even re-style older clothes to give them a fresh look.11. Compost.Food waste is a big part of household waste. Composting is an eco-friendly way to utilize this waste, and it's great for your plants. Here's a quick and easy way to compost kitchen scraps from the Washington Department of Ecology.12. Shop secondhand.Secondhand items are often just as good as new ones. Plus, they come without all the excessive packaging and cost less.13. Educate yourself and others.The more you know about the benefits of a zero-waste lifestyle, the easier it is to stick with it. Share your knowledge with others to help them understand why it's crucial. Why is Zero Waste Lifestyle Important? Zero waste living is not only about reducing waste—it's about contributing to a more sustainable future. With the zero-waste packaging market expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.2% from 2021 to 2026, it's evident that more businesses are catching onto the trend and acknowledging the need for change. But why is it so crucial that we all embrace this concept? Here are five benefits of a zero-waste lifestyle: Environmental Impact A zero-waste lifestyle is vital for our planet. The vast amount of waste we generate is wreaking havoc on our environment. Overfilled landfills leak harmful chemicals into our soil and waterways, while garbage in our oceans threatens marine life. By committing to reducing waste, we can directly combat these environmental threats. Resource Conservation A lot of resources go into making the products we use every day. When we throw away things, we also throw away the elements and energy used to make them. By embracing zero waste, we make more sustainable use of these resources. Financial Benefits Embracing a zero-waste lifestyle can be a boon for your wallet too. Consider buying less, repairing more, and reducing consumption, which can lead to significant savings. Also, many steps you can take to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle, such as buying in bulk or reusing items, often lead to cost savings over time. Promotes Creativity and Mindfulness Living a zero-waste lifestyle encourages creativity and mindfulness. You become more aware of your consumption habits and learn to find innovative ways to reduce waste. It prompts you to ask before each purchase: "Do I really need this?" This mindful consumption can enrich your life unexpectedly, helping you appreciate what you have and reduce clutter. Before throwing anything away or replacing it, you can let your imagination go wild about how to repurpose or reuse it. Here are 32 creative ways you can recycle plastic from 5-Minute Crafts PLAY.Community Building When we engage in zero-waste living, we often connect with like-minded individuals, creating a community of people striving to make a difference. This can lead to increased social interaction and a sense of belonging, both beneficial for our mental health.This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you! You Can Lead a Zero-Waste Lifestyle at Home How to live a zero-waste lifestyle? It's easier than you think. Beyond reducing waste, it's about contributing to a healthier planet, conserving resources, saving money, fostering creativity, and building a better community. So, if you've been contemplating how to practice a zero-waste lifestyle, the answer lies in these 13 simple steps. I'm sure you can find more, but these are great ways to start! How will you practice a zero-waste lifestyle?
Home 3 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cooling Your Home For Summer 8:59 PM 3 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cooling Your Home For Summer Many of us enjoy the warmth that summer brings. But too much of a good thing could be bad. When summer really heats up, your utility bills generally follow suit. Mostly because you make common mistakes when cooling your home this summer.While running your air conditioning unit around the clock can help turn your home into a comfortably cool oasis from the brutal heat, it can also leave an enormous hole in your finances. By taking a few simple measures and steering clear of common blunders, you can dramatically limit AC usage while keeping your home nice and cool all summer long.So, if a cost-effectively cool home is what you’re after, make sure to avoid these three common home cooling mistakes for summer.Mistake #1: Not putting ceiling fans to good use.Dependable ceiling fans are among the most effective cooling aids you should have on hand. If your home is currently in need of high-quality fans, there’s no time like the present to purchase and install some. Some people consider ceiling fans as ineffective alternatives to air conditioning. But the right ceiling fans can be a tremendous boon to your summertime cooling efforts – provided, of course, they’re properly utilized. Ceiling fans can work with your mini split AC or central air conditioning system by distributing the cool air it produces to every area of your home.By adjusting the fans’ blades to turn counterclockwise, they can produce a downward-flowing cooling breeze.Ceiling fans are available in an extensive array of styles and sizes. If you’re looking to purchase a fan for an area that doesn’t have much ceiling space, a good flush mount ceiling fan should be right up your alley.Mistake #2: Using your oven while the sun is out.Ovens can generate a fair amount of heat – so much, in fact, that any room adjacent to the oven will likely feel its residual heat. While this can be somewhat convenient throughout the winter, it’s nothing short of uncomfortable during the sweaty summer months. Make it a point of limiting oven use over the summer, particularly during daylight hours. If you can’t help it, at least wait until the sun has gone down before using it. While being without an oven can present a number of culinary complications, it can also open the door for a host of exciting new food prep opportunities. You may be surprised by just how many health-conscious oven-free recipes are out there. If you’re fond of backyard barbecues, there’s no better time of year to give the old grill a thorough cleaning and throw on some burgers. By the time fall rolls around and you’ve expanded your culinary repertoire, you may actually be grateful to have been pulled out of your comfort zone.Mistake #3: Keeping curtains and blinds open during the sun’s peak hoursAlthough sunlight can add natural lighting to your home, it can also contribute to excessively warm indoor temps, especially during the summer. Minimize the amount of direct sunlight entering your home during daylight hours. You can do this by closing your curtains and/or blinds while the sun is out – and by investing in thermal curtains or “blackout curtains” These specialized window dressings are composed of thick thermal materials that enable them to keep indoor sunlight to the barest possible minimum. Thermal curtains can also help prevent cool air from your AC from escaping and hot air from outdoors from entering. During the winter months, these curtains help seal in warm air and keep cool air at bay.Cooling an entire house throughout the summer months is no picnic – just ask any homeowner.Depending on the size of your home and area, keeping your AC running all summer long can massively deplete your finances. Luckily, there are a number of easy steps you can take to cool your humble abode in a more efficient – and cost-effective manner. Avoid the 3 common mistakes above to enjoy a consistently cool home this summer without spending a fortune.
Home 5 Steps To Keep Plant-Eating Animals Out Of Your Garden 12:51 PM Maintaining a garden is one of the most soul-satisfying things a person can do. It connects us with nature. It surrounds us with negative ions that can help relieve our stress. Gardening can give us a sense of accomplishment knowing that we're feeding our family with organic, home-grown goodness.But some four-legged friends would sometimes visit and harvest what we've planted.How do you keep these plant-eating animals out of your garden without harming them? Here are 5 easy steps:1. Use vinegar in your garden.Does vinegar keep animals away?Vinegar is one versatile product you should always keep in your home.Because of its strong smell, vinegar is repulsive to plant-eating animals and keeps them out.Soak old clothes with vinegar and put them around your garden.Vinegar can also help repel caterpillars, bugs, and aphids.Another bonus of using vinegar in the garden is that it increases soil acidity. The acetic acid in the vinegar helps fight lime and kills weeds.2. The scare tacticScare the critters off by using the old but gold scarecrow. Move the scarecrow every couple of days or so.Some gardeners would turn on the sprinkler when the plant-eating animals come. The sudden sound of the water will surprise them and make them run away.You can also train your dog to bark and scare off your unwanted garden guests. 3. Surround your garden with their least favorite.Grow these in your garden. These are plants that can help keep plant-eating animals away:lavendermintrosemarychivesoreganodillcatnipgarlic thymeonionsage4. Use covered bins to keep plant-eating animals out of your garden.Put a lid securely on your compost bin and trash cans so that you don't attract raccoons, deer, foxes, and opossums. The smell of your trash may have led them to your garden in the first place. 5. Deer Fence: The Best Defense When deer and other wildlife cannot access your garden, they will go searching for food in fields, meadows, and high grasses. Installing a deer fence is a surefire way to keep out animals that don’t belong in your garden. Durable, and environmentally safe, the right deer fencing will keep out animals that wish to create mischief, by consuming your plants and seedlings. Deer fencing won’t cause woodland creatures any harm but instead will divert them elsewhere.Choose a six-foot, or even an eight-foot-high fence, or pairs of low parallel fences. This will cause the deer to think twice about scaling them, even if they are being chased, or threatened.The Worst Garden OffendersYou may be wondering, "What animal is eating my plants"? Here are 7 common animals that may be destroying your garden:Deer - You may find deer grazing in your garden at dusk and at dawn. Because winters are hard on them, they seek out and focus only on the most nutritious garden plants. They're hard to catch as they are nearly inaudible except for occasional grunts and mews. If you don't catch them, be on the lookout for deer droppings, and cloven-shaped hoof prints.Rabbits - Adorable rabbits can wreak havoc in your garden. They will eat almost anything and can cause extensive damage if security is not in place.Raccoons and Skunks - Although sometimes happily satiated by feasting on garbage cans, raccoons and skunks will also dig through your garden, looking for insects, and grubs. They will also dig holes to make their dens.Squirrels - Both ground and tree squirrels pose a threat to your garden. Their typical MO is to create holes that are used either for their burrows or to store and bury nuts for winter.Prairie Dogs - While indeed prairie dogs are capable of inflicting great damage to crops in a garden, they are helpful to the ecosystem. Their method of burrowing helps till the soil, thereby adding nutrients. If possible, finding a professional to trap, and relocate these critters, is the most environmentally beneficial and kinder way of managing them.Chipmunks - The famous of them all, chipmunks feed mainly on insects, seeds, grains, and nuts, but have no problem-consuming seedlings and flower bulbs.Field Mice - Ingenious little creatures, field mice will do just about anything to get to a tasty morsel of food. They will disrupt plant roots, and snack on leaves, pull up roots, and gnaw at them from underneath the soil. We must not hurt or harm the animals who only act by instinct and for survival.But, that doesn’t mean that we have to share all our harvest with these plant-eating creatures.With the right tools, planning, and defenses, such as deer fencing, we can happily enjoy the bounty of our gardens by keeping our plant-eating animal friends out without harming them.
Health & Wellness 5 Real Benefits Of Filtered Tap Water 7:21 PM Before you drink another glass of water...Ask yourself:"How safe is it?"Substances can seep from the ground into the water pipes. Thus, polluting your tap water without you knowing. This can lead to serious illness---and possibly even death.For this reason, you should consider drinking filtered tap water next time.What is filtered water?Filtered water is water that has been treated physically or chemically to remove impurities.What is removed during water filtration?Lead, chlorine, bacteria, calcium, minerals, and salt are separated from water during filtration. While, minerals such as magnesium, fluoride, calcium, and zinc are retained.Is it safe to drink filtered tap water?Depending on where you are, it could be either safe or dangerous to drink tap water. Here are the countries where it's not worth filtering your tap water because they have the safest, cleanest water:United KingdomNew ZealandCanadaScandinaviaSingaporeGermanyFinlandIcelandIf you're in the following countries, however, it's a different story. Don't try to drink the tap water when you visit:PhilippinesMexicoRussiaFijiChinaBrazilUkraineCubaIs filtered tap water good for you?Since impurities are removed in filtered water, it is a better choice for drinking. Consider the purest reverse osmosis water. And experience the 5 real benefits of filtered tap water. 5 Real Benefits of Filtered Tap Water 1. No more harmful chemicals Chemicals are added to water at the treatment plant. The main two are chlorine and fluoride. Chlorine kills unwanted bacteria, while fluoride reduces the incidence of tooth decay.However...Too much fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis or skeletal fluorosis, which can damage bones and joints. The levels of chlorine used for drinking water disinfection are unlikely to cause long-term health effects. But some people are allergic to it.2. Free from bacteriaWater filters are designed to collect bacteria in the water. They can capture the bacteria and prevent it from coming out of the tap. If not removed, these bacteria can cause diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, nausea, headaches, fever, fatigue, or death. 3. ConvenientYou’ve probably heard that boiling water can help improve its quality by killing the bacteria in it.Boiling water can be tedious and time-consuming.A home water filtration system can give you filtered water fast and easily.4. Improved smell and taste Tap water has a distinct smell and taste. This is due to the chemicals present. Especially chlorine.Filtered water doesn't have this problem.5. Money Saving! Finally, a valuable benefit in filtering your tap water is saving money. Initially, you'll need to invest in equipment and set up the system. Once you've done that, it only requires minor maintenance.You’ll no longer have to test your water supply to see if it's clean, has the right pH, and is safe.BONUS: More sustainable!You won't need to buy bottled filtered water anymore if you have water filtration equipment.That's reducing the use of plastic that pollutes the environment.Think about these 5 benefits of filtered tap water the next time you pour yourself a glass.
How-To 7 Simple Sustainable Living Tips To Save The Planet Right Now 11:03 PM 7 Simple Sustainable Living Tips Everything we do, from waking up in the morning to calling it a night, impacts the planet. You don't need a significant change to be a better earthling. Just do these seven simple, sustainable living tips to save the planet right now.What is sustainable living?Cambridge Dictionary defines sustainable as "causing little or no damage to the environment and therefore able to continue for a long time."Sustainable living is choosing a lifestyle that reduces your carbon footprint or negative environmental impact.For me, living sustainably is ensuring the next generation has enough natural resources left for them to survive and thrive.Is it hard? Here's what you can do:1. Turn off and unplug.Turn off gadgets and appliances when not in use. But that's not enough...Unplug them too! Even when idle, plugged electronics still consume energy. 2-10 watts or 6-10% of your appliance consumption comes from electrical items on "standby" mode.Unplugged appliances can be a fire hazard even when not in use.Living sustainably is as simple as turning off the light or unplugging the coffee machine.Giphy2. Reuse.Don't throw away that pasta sauce glass container yet. Instead, clean it and use it for keeping items or food.These bottles usually have tight and secure lids perfect for keeping the bugs out.Watch video tutorials on how to reuse plastic water containers, old clothes, tea bags, candle wax, and other used items instead of discarding them. With the information at your fingertips, there's no excuse for not knowing these awesome hacks.Tenor3. Be a conscious shopper.Always check the label. See if the ingredients being used are eco-friendly or cruelty-free. Opt for more sustainable alternatives at the grocery store, like picking paper stem cotton buds instead of plastic.Shopping for clothes? Avoid those that are made from non-biodegradable materials like nylon and polyester. Choose more environment-friendly organic cotton or Tencel.Gfycat4. Go paperless.Choose paperless invitations and notes. Thank God for technology; communication and sending information can now be done without printing paper.Read the news online.Choose email subscription or paperless receipts.Giphy5. Plant.What can be more sustainable than growing plants and trees? People may take plants for granted, but it gives us more than we can ask for. It provides us a sustained supply of food. It's the source of oxygen our body needs to survive and function.Plants can also be used as medicine and are good sources of nutrition.Plus, plants provide cleaner air, not to mention a gorgeous, calming view.Nature is a gift that keeps on giving. Agree?Giphy6. Go plant-based.Speaking of plants, choose plant-based food. Plant-based or vegan food is healthier for your body, rejects violence (no animal harmed!), and is safer for the planet.What would you pick to choose between growing your own food and killing a sentient being for a sandwich? Would you really do it if it's up to you to wrestle and kill the animal for food?Lucky us today because there are companies that produce sustainable products. Healthier meat alternatives are now available in giant food chains and are seeing a high increase in revenue."In mid-March (peak), sales of plant-based foods were up 90% year-over-year. For the 4 weeks following, plant-based food sales at retail grew 35% faster than total retail food sales." -Julie Emmett, Senior Director of Retail Partnerships at Plant-based Food AssociationThat's one heck of a growth!7. Support local, organic, sustainable brands.Buying locally means lesser shipping costs and a lower carbon footprint.Let's help sustainable organic brands grow because their products provide us a better option than what's available in the market.What natural, sustainable brands do you support? I personally recommend Human Nature. It's an ethical company with world-class, award-winning quality.GiphyEvery little thing you do impacts the planet. From the food you put on your plate to the shampoo you use, small daily habits like turning off the faucet when not in use, and adequately throwing your trash...you make a huge difference, my friend.You can leave the world a little better than you found it or make it unlivable.Never think that what you do doesn't matter. It does. You matter. You, dear one, maybe a tiny speck in the vast universe, but you can make an effective change and leave a dent.The question is, what kind of change are you making?Be a good earthling and steward to the creation. Follow these seven simple, sustainable living tips. The planet and future generations will thank you for it.
How-To Top 10 Tips For Eco-Friendly Travel 7:25 PM Top 10 Tips For Eco-Friendly Travel Want to travel the world but worried that you'll leave a more negative impact on the environment? These top 10 tips for eco-friendly travel will help you stay eco-conscious and reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the trip of a lifetime. 1. Goodbye, plastic bag. Hello, reusable tote! Did you know plastic bags can take up to 1,000 years to biodegrade? So when traveling, it's best to invest in a reusable shopping bag for picking up essentials in the local market or for packing your favourite trinkets. Reusable bags are not only eco-friendly, but they also come in a variety of patterns, fabrics, and styles. Just remember to invest in one that is a plastic alternative. 2. Pack light for eco-friendly travel.Did you know? The more a plane weighs, the more carbon emissions it produces. So travel sustainably and skip packing multiple outfits. Pack only what you need. The environment will thank you. 3. Use public transport. When on holiday, use public transport if you can. This means you'll not create any additional carbon emissions from private transport. It will also enrich your travel experience as you'll get to meet locals and experience what it feels like to be in that place. If you can use bicycles or walk around your destination, do it. Exploring your destination on foot or by bike will allow you to create a personal itinerary that takes in what you want to see. It can also be a gratifying experience. If you want a much more professional experience, you can always see what day trips companies offer. Make sure to do your research and pick trips that you will enjoy. 4. Travel over land.Flying can be quicker, but if you cut out just one five-hour flight, your carbon footprint will be much lighter. You will also see sights you would have overlooked on the plane. From the rolling countryside, tiny villages, and curious locals, you might find this bus journey the most magical moments of your trip. 5. Enjoy a local beer. Cut down on your beer mileage and enjoy a local beer instead of opting for a further traveled imported option. Not only will you enjoy something that many of your friends have never tried, but your tipple will also be low-carbon! 6. Make yourself at home in your hotel.Treat it as if you were at home when staying in your hotel. Don't request clean towels daily when they're not needed, and avoid long hot showers. Remember to turn off the lights, the aircon, and the TV when we leave the room. 7. Choose a Carbon Offset Holiday. Unfortunately, when travelling you can't avoid all carbon emissions. If you really want to travel eco-friendly, then look into booking a holiday with a travel company that offers to offset your carbon emissions or one that accounts for your trip. There are many companies out there that can help you stay conscious of this and that can offer a holiday that will keep your emissions low. 8. Avoid bottled water. Plastic bottles account for much environmental waste and pollute our oceans. You can bring a free reusable water bottle filled with safe water from your hotel. Investing in a filtered water bottle is a good idea if you will be backpacking and won't always have access to clean water. These bottles come with a filter installed to purify undrinkable water, allowing you to drink without paying for expensive water bottles.It will offset the carbon emissions caused by using the plastic option.This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you. 9. Don't stray from the path.On a hiking trip, always stay on the marked trails and keep a safe distance from any animals you see.Don't approach wild animals in their natural habitat. We've all heard the story about the poor dolphin who died while people rushed to get a selfie. Also, if you go off the path, you may trample or damage protected flora and fauna. The track is there for a reason. Follow it! 10. Power in numbers. Travelling in a smaller group tends to have less of an environmental impact. So if you are travelling with a tour operator, enquire about their group sizes before booking. Another handy tip would be to ask them how they give back to the local community. This will help you determine which tour operator to book with. You'll want to go with a tour operator who values the local community and helps empower the local tourist industry. Next time you plan for a trip, be mindful of your impact on the environment. Choose a more sustainable and eco-friendly way to travel. You'll enjoy it more knowing you're preserving the Earth's beauty for your next trip and the future generation. Author: Sarah McCann, Blog Editor at My Baggage, a luggage delivery service that helps take the time and hassle out of travelling.Edited by About Life and Love.
Health & Wellness 3 Ways To Create A More Natural Lifestyle 7:00 PM 3 Ways To CreateMore Natural Lifestyle The food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison. -Ann Wigmore, Holistic Health Practitioner, and NaturopathWe are exposed to toxins every day. Harmful substances are everywhere, from the food we eat, synthetic medicines we take, and the air we breathe.But we can protect ourselves if we create a more natural lifestyle.And it's easier than you think. 1. Eat more plants.One of the easiest and fastest ways to create a natural lifestyle is to choose a plant-based diet.The health benefits are incredible. Studies show that a plant-based diet tremendously affects glucose levels. This results in reduced or reversed Diabetes in patients. Plants are rich in antioxidants that protect us against certain cancers. A vegan or plant-based diet does not clog the arteries, thus allowing a healthy flow of blood and oxygen.Because plants are fiber-rich, those who follow a vegan diet have better digestion and experience weight loss.Find local organic groceries to avoid consuming GMO foods. 2. Opt for green living. Electric cars and natural gas gen-sets (if you are providing power to many people) are great ways to be fuel and cost-efficient. Install solar panels to power your home. If you live by a lake or river, you can make a mill to produce hydroelectric power.Reuse and recycle old items around the house.Support ethical, sustainable, and cruelty-free brands. 3. Use essential oils. While prescription medication may be easy to get, it shouldn't always be your first answer. It's amazing how everything we need is already provided by nature. For our health needs, there are different essential oils that we can use.Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants. They contain potent chemicals that can be used for different health issues.Here are some examples.Best essential oils for headaches and migraines:Peppermint oilChamomile oilEucalyptus oilGinger oilLavender oilNeroli oilOrange oilBest essential oils for colds and sinus congestion:Lemon oilPeppermint oilThyme oilChamomile oilClove oilEucalyptus oilOregano oilClary Sage oilRosemary oilBest essential oils for cough:Frankincense oilPeppermint oilNutmeg oilCinnamon oilBest essential oils for anxiety:Jasmine oilLavender oilChamomile oilBasil oilRose oilVetiver oilGeranium oilMarjoram oilFennel oilLemon oilNeroli oilYlang-ylang oilBest essential oils for boosting energy:Lemon oilGrapefruit oilCedarwood oilOrange oilCinnamon oilPeppermint oilRosemary oilCopaiba oilBergamot oilBest essential oils for bloating and a gassy stomach:Cardamom oilPeppermint oilLemongrass oilGinger oilBlack pepper oilCypress oilJuniper oilOrange oilThis post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you.Your common questions about essential oils answered by WebMD in this video:The little everyday things you do can significantly impact your life and the environment. Create a more natural lifestyle for better health and for a greener planet.Now you:Do you think it's necessary to live sustainably?How will you create a natural lifestyle?
Health & Wellness 6 Ways You Can Do To Feel Closer To Nature 10:54 PM 6 Ways You Can Feel Closer To Nature Everything we truly need, nature provides. Sadly, we often take it for granted. We're stuck at our desks all day, so we don't spend as much time outdoors and appreciate nature's beauty and benefits. It's time we change that by doing these six ways so you can feel closer to nature. 1. Be conscious of water wastage. While millions around the world struggle for clean water, some people and industries use wastewater. With every drop of water wasted, you're throwing away our future. Be more conscious of using water.Fix leaks: Leaks in pipes and taps can waste a lot of water over time. Check all your faucets, toilets, and pipes regularly for leaks. If you spot any leaks, get them fixed as soon as possible.Shorten shower time: Taking long showers can waste a lot of water. Consider shortening your shower time by a few minutes, and turn off the water while you lather up. By doing so, you can save gallons of water every day.Use water-efficient appliances: Water-efficient appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers can help you save a lot of water. Look for devices with the Energy Star label, which indicates that they meet water efficiency standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. 2. Read about nature. Another great way to become more involved with nature is to read about it. Reading about nature, its immediate threats, and what people can do to combat these threats can play a crucial role in opening an individual's eyes in his bid to come close to nature. The more you read about nature, the more you will understand nature's blessings, gradually nurturing a healthy relationship between Mother Nature and you.Books to read to help you live sustainably:The Zero Waste Home: The Ultimate Guide to Simplifying Your Life by Reducing Your Waste by Bea Johnson - This book provides practical advice and tips for reducing waste daily, from food and clothing to cleaning and travel.The Upcycle: Beyond Sustainability—Designing for Abundance by William McDonough and Michael Braungart - This book challenges traditional notions of sustainability and advocates for a more regenerative approach to design and production. It provides practical examples and case studies of companies implementing these ideas.Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things by William McDonough and Michael Braungart presents a vision for a future where materials are constantly cycled and reused rather than discarded. It provides a framework for creating environmentally safe and socially responsible products.The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Make Small Changes That Make a Big Difference by Jen Gale - This book provides practical advice for making sustainable changes in all areas of life, from food and clothing to transportation and home energy use.Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming edited by Paul Hawken - This book presents a plan for reversing global warming by drawing down carbon from the atmosphere through various solutions, from renewable energy and regenerative agriculture to reforestation and urban greening. It provides a hopeful and practical roadmap for creating a sustainable future. 3. Observe nature and journal your observations. This is precisely how most naturalists and botanists gain an intricate understanding of plants, animals, and scientific cycles that guide us all. Observing nature and journaling is not only for the experts. Anyone can do it to feel well acquainted with nature.Write your notes down on this Elephant Dung Notebook. It's handmade, sustainable, fair-trade, and eco-friendly. 4. Spend more time with nature. Whether hiking, biking, or camping– everyone must have a routine where they can go out in the wild, exploring local woods, forests, or mountains. This 'nature and me' time is vital for people as it helps them lay off their over-dependence on technology and enjoy the wonders of nature. You can also enjoy a significant closeness with nature through gardening activities. It would be good to check out websites like Preparednessmama.Com, which offer valuable guidelines regarding gardening activities.Negative ions are molecules that have gained an electron, abundant in natural environments such as forests, mountains, and beaches. Here are five health benefits of negative ions in nature:Improved Respiratory Function: Negative ions in nature can help to improve respiratory function by reducing the number of pollutants and allergens in the air. They can also help increase oxygen uptake, improving lung function and overall respiratory health.Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Negative ions have been shown to have a calming effect on the body, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. They can also help to improve mood and increase feelings of relaxation and well-being.Increased Immunity: Exposure to negative ions in nature has been shown to stimulate the immune system, which can help to protect against illness and disease. Negative ions can help increase the production of white blood cells, essential for fighting infections.Improved Sleep: Negative ions can help enhance sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety. They can also help regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep patterns and overall health.Enhanced Cognitive Function: Negative ions have been shown to have a positive effect on cognitive function, including memory, attention, and learning. Negative ions can help increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain, improving cognitive function and mental clarity. 5. Bathe in the forest. This is actually an exciting activity. An ancient Japanese practice, 'shinrin-yoku' or forest bathing, is a natural way to decrease stress levels and improve mental wellness using spending time with nature. 6. Practice composting. The perfect way to contribute to the cycle of life, engaging in composting is almost a miraculous way of converting waste into worth. All it takes is patience and the willingness to dispose of waste materials appropriately. This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost to you.These are some of the best ways to start the journey to be closer to nature – a journey that all humans must embark upon. What sustainable activity can you recommend?
