Leading a simple-clean lifestyle might not seem so simple to begin with. Understandably, we’re attached to the convenience of modern-day life and may meet sustainable alternatives with resistance. But, don’t be intimidated. However challenging the transition may seem, being more eco-conscious is easier than you think, and will be worth your effort.
Before we step into the practical side of things, I suggest taking a moment to reflect on why adopting this simple-clean lifestyle is something you may want to embark on. Having a notion about your intention or the motivation behind your intention will make the transition much easier. For me, it was clear: I believe that we can all live our lives in harmony with nature, and that to salvage the environment, we have a responsibility to create change.
Transitioning into a new pattern or habit is an evolving process. So, let’s take this one step at a time. One of the very first things we can do is stop buying packaged groceries, produce, and to-go food and drinks. Instead, we can direct our efforts into bringing our own portable and reusable items, which will ultimately transform our shopping trips into joyful and rewarding experiences – both in the short and long-term.
Whether you’re on the way to the grocery shop, your local farmers’ market, travelling, or on your routine coffee run, you can start by always having the following essential reusable items with you. Here’s a short list of reusable items to always have on hand. Once you get used to having them with you, you may not even remember the days of not having them!
- Reusable shopping bags. Consider totes in a sustainable fabric, such as cotton or made from natural fibers. Some stores will even pay you for bringing your own bags.
- Produce bags. Nowadays, you can find them in practically every grocery store and online. You can use these bags at the supermarket and farmers’ markets (surprisingly, farmers markets are still providing and using lots of plastic bags), and even to store your produce in the fridge.
- Reusable jars. Mason jars come in every size. They are great for herbs and spices, as well as for nut butters. Ask the manager at the supermarket to weigh your jars before you fill them at the bulk station. (Your local thrift store may also have a good, inexpensive selection of jars.)
- Reusable straws and cutlery. Steel or bamboo straws are a great, sustainable option.
- Coffee mugs. Reduce your environmental impact (and bill) by bringing your own refillable cup on your daily Starbucks run.
- Toiletry containers. When traveling, you can refill small, silicon bottles with your shampoo, lotion, and other preferred, personal care products.
- Towels. Whether you’re traveling or heading to a yoga class, take your own towel with you. Even though many studios and gyms will offer complimentary shower and hand towels, bringing your own will greatly reduce the usage of energy and water. You can also bring a washcloth with you when you travel!
Taking this first step is one way to start living a simple-clean life. The rewards are many. Not only will we feel connected to a greater purpose, but also consciously buying in bulk, unpackaged, and local products, (believe it or not), is much more cost effective. That, in itself, is always a good reason to adapt the new habits!
