There are so many reasons to transition to a more natural way of life but first,
We define “natural living” as a way of life that honors ourselves, others, and the environment around us. It is taking all that mindfulness that we learn through yoga and meditation practices and applying it to the choices we make throughout our days by making decisions that cause as little harm as possible.
One way this is done is by using fewer chemicals which can be harmful to ourselves, our families, and the earth.
It’s also important to realize that, just like a yoga or meditation practice, this is a journey. We are not encouraging pursuit of perfection or an obsession that leads to anxiety, instead an embrace of the little things we can all do to live more compassionately.
It can be overwhelming to think about making this transition to a more natural way of living. Both time and finances can stand in our way of making these desires a reality. Starting small and making a few changes at a time is the key.
The best part about making modifications slowly is that you can embrace each change and make it routine.
If we are going to follow through on making changes, it is helpful to know why we desire to do so. When things get more challenging, we can look back at our “why” and find the motivation to keep trying.
Natural living isn’t about jumping on a fad bandwagon. If you are going out and spending tons of money on chemical-free products just because the girl next to you in last week’s yoga class told you to, take some time and see what your personal why might be.
Natural living is about being more intentional in the way we live and being mindful of the impact we are having on ourselves, others, and our environment.
Laundry detergent is a product that probably many of us are so used to having in our homes we don’t even think about it anymore, but there are several reasons to consider swapping out your old laundry detergent. Most popular brand detergents host chemicals such as, Sodium lauryl sulfate, dioxane, NPE (nonylphenol ethoxylate), and Phosphates, all of which are known to be harmful both to our wellness and the earth.
Soap nuts are a dried-fruit that look like berries. When they get wet, the berries create a natural soap. They are a great alternative to popular laundry detergents because they get the job done, save you money, and don’t come in a large plastic container which will probably end up floating around our oceans or contaminating our soil.
According to National Geographic's, Green Guide, “Many air fresheners contain nerve-deadening chemicals that coat your nasal passages and temporarily block your sense of smell.”
Luckily, essential oils can do everything an air freshener can do, and much more! Essential oils help cover bad smells and have therapeutic effects on your health.
If you are looking to freshen the air in a smelly part of your house, try diffusing a citrus oil.
If you want to relax before bed, lavender or eucalyptus both have a positive impact on your nervous system and allow you to feel calmer.
Avoiding foods that have been processed or come with excessive packaging is a great way to live more naturally.
Cooking from scratch at home with organic fruits and vegetables will allow you to be aware of what is going into your foods as well as cut down on the wasteful packaging that you are throwing away.
Preparing food to take with you when you are away from your home will also save you a lot of money.
To prevent wasteful packaging, buy your fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, and so much more, in bulk.
Many large grocery store chains, as well as local health food stores, now offer a bulk section from which you can purchase many things that are typically bought wrapped in plastic.
It’s simpler than you think.
Buy some bulk bags (you can find many options on Amazon) and take an exploratory trip to a few grocery stores near you to see what you can find in bulk.
You may not be able to find everything but remember, every little bit helps!
Even if you just start by buying one thing, such as almonds, in bulk, think of all the packaging you can eliminate.
This tip should be number one because if we are talking about natural living, nothing is more natural than, well, living in nature!
Being around trees and feeling the earth beneath our feet must be the best way to detox.
When you need more energy, step outside and reconnect with the natural world which is always supporting you.
Additionally, spending time in nature will help keep our “why” present in our minds. How can we not want to live as compassionately as possible towards this earth when we receive so much joy and energy from its many gifts?
Take a walk. Sit and listen to the birds. Go camping. Find more ways to get outside and immerse yourself in the natural therapy that surrounds us.
Try one thing at a time and before you know it, you will find an intentionally natural life that you feel proud of!
xoxo.