It’s moments like these where we take a step back and remind ourselves that not only do we matter and serve a great purpose, but our choices matter and effect everyone around us. Since the Coronavirus outbreak, we have done major reflecting and how we can contribute to a larger whole. While every St. Patrick’s Day in the past has been spent participating in boozy celebrations and dressing up in festive green outfits, we’ve decided to take a different approach on how to “Think Green” this holiday. This comes at a great time as we practice social distancing, and we hope you find these ideas useful for today and everyday moving forward. If leading a sustainable life has been on your mind, or one of the things you’ve hoped to tap into this year, here are some of the ways we plan to “think green” on this St. Patrick’s Day.
Spring Wardrobe Cleaning
via @gypsytanhome
We see this activity as a win-win. Not only is it a step closer to getting your closet and your life in order, but you have the opportunity to help those in need. Donating to your local Goodwill or Salvation Army is a great way to help the greater good, and not let your clothes go to waste! If you’re looking for an opportunity to make money as well, there are great companies like thredUP who resell your clothes online, and donate the rest to charity for you.
Reduce. Reuse. REFILL.
via @sustain_la
Now more than ever, we need to rethink the word “convenience” and deep-dive what it means to live a life of zero-waste. This is a great time to look into refill shops and stations for our grooming and hygiene essentials. Refill shops allow you to bring your own containers and fill up on shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, etc., eliminating excess and sometimes, expensive product packaging.
For those of you in LA, we fully support women-owned business, sustainLA and their vision for a restored waste-less world!
Minimizing use of single-use plastic
via @thegoodtrade
More on this note, zero-waste goes beyond recycling and really taps into changing our everyday habits. It’s important to be conscious of how our habits and behavior towards the environment has been embedded in us so that we can make active and long-term efforts for an eco-conscious community. Here are 5 easy ways to cut down on single-plastic use:
- Carry reusable bags/Use reusable snack/sandwich bags (shop our favorite ones from GoSili)
- Transition to plastic-free containers
- Pack a food travel kit
- Wear natural clothing
- Do without – if the choice is between plastic or nothing, you can always choose nothing.
If you are celebrating (and cheersin’) on this St.Patricks day then we cannot recommend opting for eco-friendly wine. Because let’s be real, wine will always be our drink of choice. Our personal favorite wine on the go is by our friends over at Archer Roose. Grab yourself a pack of the canned bubbly and rosé for your favorite wine flavors with all the convenience of a traditional canned beer.
Earthing
via @goop
There’s nothing like stepping outside for fresh air, and while we are so busy with our day to day lives it is so important to disconnect from the mundane and connect with our planet. One of the best ways to do that is by earthing, otherwise known as, grounding. Earthing therapy relies on the assumption that connecting to the energy of the planet is healthy for our souls and bodies. On a scientific note, allowing access to the abundant supply of free electrons in the negatively charged ground can help neutralize free radicals. Earthing can be anything from taking a barefoot walk on the beach or in the grass. Not only is this the perfect time to build appreciation for your planet, but earthing is linked to helping with inflammation, arthritis, insomnia and depression.
While you step outside, it’s always handy to have a reusable water bottle with you! Staying hydrated is always key, and even better when your reusable water, like the DYLN Living Water Bottle can create alkaline antioxidant water for you wherever and whenever.
What are some ways you all lead a sustainable life? Comment below and tell us, or share with us on Instagram at @inspiredbythis! And if you loved these tips, check out past article on our 8 Ways to Live a Greener Life.