How-To Top 10 Tips For Eco-Friendly Travel 5:25 AM 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 to pick up essentials in the local market or to pack your favourite trinkets. Reusable bags are eco-friendly and come in various 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 heavier a plane is, the more carbon emissions it produces. So travel sustainably and avoid 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 meet locals and experience what it's 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 to be the most magical moments of your trip. 5. Enjoy a local beer.You can reduce your beer mileage and enjoy a local beer instead of opting for a more expensive 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, consider 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 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.When hiking, always stay on the marked trails and keep a safe distance from any animals you encounter.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 should choose a tour operator that 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. Contributor: Sarah McCann, Blog Editor at My Baggage, a luggage delivery service that helps take the time and hassle out of travelling.Heavily edited and updated by Lux - About Life and Love.
Health & Wellness 3 Ways To Create A More Natural Lifestyle 5:00 AM 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 8:54 AM 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?
Home 10 Ways To Take Proper Care Of Your Garden Tools 5:00 AM Gardening is a labor of love, and the tools that help bring gardens to life deserve just as much care and attention as the plants themselves. But buying the right horticulture helpers is not enough. You must also take proper care of your garden tools to ensure they perform their best season after season. Here are ten golden rules for keeping them in tip-top shape so you can keep creating outdoor masterpieces. 1. Safe StorageThe first thing to do is store the garden tools in a shed. Don’t let the tools be littered throughout the garden.Protect from elements. Exposure to sun, rain, and other harsh elements can quickly damage garden tools.Invest in a weatherproof storage unit. This will keep your tools safe and protected from the elements.Organize. Organizing your tools within the shed will make it easier to find what you need and prevent damage from tools rubbing against each other. Remember to store all your tools properly, from the humble hand trowel to the best cordless leaf blowers. Each tool is crucial in maintaining a beautiful garden regardless of size or complexity. Giving equal care to your simple spades and high-tech gadgets ensures that every piece of equipment is ready to spring into action when needed.2. Regular Sharpening Your tools must be constantly sharpened to get the best results. Dull tools can make gardening a chore. Keep your tools sharp for a more efficient and enjoyable experience. Clean after each use. Remove dirt and debris from your tools to prevent rust and dulling.Store properly. Keep your tools dry and sheltered to avoid corrosion and damage.Sharpen regularly. Use a quality sharpening stone, or take your tools to a professional for sharpening.A sharp tool is a safe tool. A dull blade can slip and cause accidents. 3. Oil the Metal If your tools’ metal parts are not stainless steel, they will likely rust. Here’s how to prevent this.How to Oil Your Tools:Clean the metal thoroughly. Remove any dirt, rust, or other contaminants.Apply a thin layer of oil. Use a cloth or rag to apply a light coat of linseed oil to the metal surfaces.Wipe away excess oil. Ensure the oil is evenly distributed and there are no excess puddles.Store in a dry place. Store your oiled tools dry to prevent moisture from causing rust. Pro Tip: Never use motor oil to coat the metal, as it can damage and make it more susceptible to rust. 4. Hang Your Garden Tools One thing you must follow when resting the tools is to hang them on a long nail. Never place them on the ground, leaning onto the wall. If you do this regularly, the moisture on the floor might start affecting the tools, which you must definitely avoid. 5. Conditioning the Wood Conditioning the wood part in your garden tools prevents drying, cracking, and splintering.How to Condition Wooden Handles:Clean the handles thoroughly, removing dirt, grime, or residue from previous treatments.Apply a thin coat of linseed or flaxseed oil using a cloth or rag, working it into the wood grain with gentle pressure.Wipe away any excess with a clean cloth to prevent build-up.Dry the handles completely before using the tools again. 6. Sanitize the Tools If your tools have been used on diseased plants, sanitize them to prevent the spread of pathogens. Here’s how:Alcohol and water solution. Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water.Clean thoroughly. Scrub the tools with the solution, paying attention to crevices and joints.Remove plant residue. Ensure all plant material is removed to prevent contamination.Dry completely. Allow the tools to dry completely before storing them. Additional Sanitation TipsIsolate any infected plants, keeping them separate from healthy ones to prevent the spread of disease.Dispose of them properly—never add them to your compost, as this can introduce harmful pathogens.Wear gloves to protect your hands when handling affected plants or tools. 7. Protective Wear When working in your garden, you will likely wear protective gear, such as gloves and pads on your hands and knees. Gloves, knee pads, and eyewear are essential for gardening safety.How to Clean Protective Gear:Remove dirt and debris. Brush off any loose dirt or debris.Wash with soap and water. Use mild soap and warm water to clean gloves and knee pads.Rinse thoroughly. Ensure all soap residue is removed.Air dry. Allow the gear to dry completely before storing.Clean eyewear lenses. Use a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution to gently clean eyewear lenses. 8. Coiling Garden Hose Storing your garden hose correctly can significantly increase its lifespan. Folding can cause creases and weaken the hose material. Coil the hose. Coiling prevents kinks and ensures even wear.Store in a bucket. Placing the coiled hose in a bucket provides additional protection and prevents accidental damage. Benefits of Proper Hose Storage:Save money. Avoid unnecessary replacements by prolonging the life of your garden hose.Prevent leaks. Kinks and creases can lead to leaks and water waste.Improve functionality. A well-maintained hose is easier to use and less likely to tangle.Reduce environmental impact. By conserving water, you contribute to a more sustainable future. 9. Sand BucketAn excellent way to prevent rust on the metal parts of the tools is to use sand.Fill a bucket with sand. Submerge the tools completely.Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid wet sand. Benefits of Using Sand:Natural and cost-effective. Sand is an inexpensive and environmentally friendly rust prevention method.Easy to use. Simply submerge your tools in the sand for storage.Versatile. Sand can also be used for gardening tasks like drainage and soil conditioning.Long-lasting protection. Sand can provide effective rust prevention for extended periods. 10. Digging Tools MaintenanceConsider using a barbecue brush if you have trouble cleaning up the tightly clung dirt in the digging tools. Then, you can use the scraper to remove all dirt from the tool while digging. If any tools are damaged, you should get a suitable replacement immediately. Check out Best of Machinery for recommendations on high-quality garden toHere’sHere’s a short and helpful video from Gardening Dream summarizing these tips:Caring for Your Garden ToolsWith just a little TLC, garden tools transform from mere instruments into extensionsgardener’sener’s hands and heart. When well-maintained, these faithful companions make gardening a joy, allowing green thumbs to create their outdoor sanctuaries with ease and precision.Do you have a garden? How do you take care of your tools?
