Taking care of yourself is important not just for your physical health, but also for your mental and emotional well-being. In a world that is increasingly focused on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, it’s important to extend that mindset to your self-care routine as well.
Here are 8 simple, sustainable self-care ideas that prioritize both your own well-being and the health of the planet:
1. Start a Garden
Numerous studies have shown that gardening is a powerful form of self-care. It is also a great sustainable way to help the environment. Some plants will attract birds, bees, and butterflies to your garden and help in pollination, gardens improve the air and the soil quality, uses fewer fertilizers, reduces plastic packaging and food miles, and allows your family to eat a healthy diet. Have limited space? Plant a container on your windowsill, desk, or balcony, or help at a community garden.
2. Enjoy a Spa Night
Research shows that taking time for yourself results in the following health benefits: stress reduction, increased feelings of happiness and well-being, improves self-esteem, better sleep, and enhanced immune function.
Some sustainable ways to pamper yourself:
- Use a face mask or hair mask – try the Beautycounter Charcoal Face Mask or AHA Reflect Effect face mask. For a hydrating air mask, use Innersense Hydrating Hair Mask or Carina Organics Deep Treatment Conditioner.
- Draw a warm bath with a bath bomb: try the Brighten and Bloom handmade bath bombs and bath soaks.
- Exfoliate your face and body: Counter+ Overnight Resurfacing Peel and Reflect Effect Resurfacing Body Peel clears away dull surface cells, while arginine and essential fatty acids help soothe and hydrate skin. You can also use a dry brush for exfoliation.
3. Go on Nature Walks: Spending time in nature has been proven to reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall well-being. Take a walk at a nearby park or nature preserve and connect with the natural world around you. Enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and natural beauty while getting your body moving and staying fit.
4. Eat More Fruits, Vegetables, Wholefoods, and Plant-Based Meals: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet to nourish your body and the planet. Plant-based meals are good for your health and have a lower environmental impact. I’m loving the Kale Salad with Carrot Ginger Dressing from Love and Lemons.
5. Practice Yoga or Meditate: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and improve mental clarity. Find a quiet spot, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath or other points of awareness. You can also use meditation apps or guided meditation sessions to help you get started. Yoga is an excellent form of sustainable self-care proven to help reduce stress, improve flexibility and mobility, improve mood, increase mindfulness, improve sleep, and strengthen the immune system.
6. Take a Digital Break from Technology, Social Media, and News: Take a break from screens and digital devices to disconnect and recharge. Spend time doing activities you enjoy without the distraction of technology, such as reading a book, practicing a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones.
7. Use Natural Skincare and Beauty Products: Choose beauty products from companies that are making their processes, ingredients, and packaging more sustainable. Choose safe skincare products that are cruelty-free, organic, and packaged in sustainable materials. Look for products that are certified by reputable organizations such as Leaping Bunny or Ecocert. Support local small businesses that are making handmade beauty products with locally sourced ingredients or try making a DIY formulation.
8. Replace Products with Sustainable Self-Care: Choose self-care products that are environmentally friendly, such as sustainable menstrual pads or period cups, bamboo toothbrushes, straight razors, reusable cloth towels, and reusable makeup removers. These choices can help reduce waste and minimize our ecological footprint.
Small, reasonable changes can still make a difference. Balance and small changes are progress. Here are some recent changes we have made to positively contribute to the health of our planet:
- Bamboo toothbrushes
- Straight razor
- Glass storage containers
- Silicone/paper snack bags
- Switching beauty and skincare to sustainable brands
- Backyard garden
- Shop local farms
Self-care is a personal journey, and it’s important to find what works best for you. Incorporating sustainable practices into your self-care routine can not only benefit your well-being but also contribute to a healthier planet. Tell me how you will prioritize self-care that is not only good for you but also for the environment.