Get Your Green On

Each of us is responsible for minimizing our own carbon footprint — all it takes is a little environmental awareness. Not only will this result in a positive impact on the planet, but it may also improve our health and sense of well-being. Try some of these easy and inexpensive ways to get your green on.

·         Purchase eco-friendly beauty products that give back

·         If you can’t pronounce the ingredients in a product or the list is long, don’t buy it

·         Avoid products containing parabens; instead, look for natural preservatives like grapefruit seed     extract, vitamin E or other essential oils

·         Choose plant-based products rather than those containing petroleum

·         Stay away from antiperspirants made with aluminum

·         Select natural moisturizers and teeth whiteners, as well as soy-based nail polish removers

·         When picking fragrance, go with plant-based infused with essential oils

Also remember that many homemade (sans the chemicals) beauty products can be found as close as your own pantry. Other tips for eco-friendly living include monitoring your water usage — while brushing your teeth, showering, doing the dishes or washing laundry — and making small adjustments to your morning and nighttime beauty regimens as necessary.  And try air drying your hair or eliminating flat ironing to save electricity.  Even one small change can make a big difference.

What ways do you show your environmental consciousness?

Written by Chris Schmidt, who continues to strive for anti-aging and anti-acne solutions on a shoestring budget, while doing what she can both nutritionally and fitness-wise to maintain her physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.  Find out what she’s rambling about this week at alwaysthewritetime.wordpress.com.