Wednesday, March 6, 2024

Eco-Friendly Habits Made Easy

(Updated Version)
Most of the time, we continue with habits without considering their consequences. These habits, often picked up unknowingly, can harm our planet if we don't change. Take a moment now, less than 5 minutes, to consider these eco-friendly habits. You’ll thank Ms. Nava later.

Walk Instead of Drive

Next time you're heading somewhere nearby, walk instead of driving. Driving emits toxic gases that pollute the air and speed up climate change. Every trip adds more CO2 to the atmosphere, draining our planet’s resources. Walking, on the other hand, boosts your health and reduces pollution. It’s not just about saving the planet; it’s about improving your own well-being. I enjoy my slow walks to the shops - it’s a way to stretch my eyes and appreciate the surroundings (SIMPLE MENTAL HEALTH TIPS).

Public Transport

Public transport is another simple way to reduce your carbon footprint. It cuts fuel consumption, saves money, and eliminates the hassle of finding parking. By taking the bus or train, you reduce traffic and lower your stress levels. I enjoy my train and LRT rides, appreciating the views along the way.

Line of cars reducing emissions, promoting eco-friendly transportation

Car-Pooling

Car-pooling reduces the number of cars on the road, conserving fuel and cutting emissions. It’s a small yet impactful change. Sharing a ride also makes the journey more enjoyable and less isolating. Every time I go out with friends, we car-pool or take a shared ride. It’s bonding time where we chat and laugh together.


Bring Your Own Containers & Bags

Carrying your own containers and bags reduces waste and supports sustainability. By avoiding disposable plastic, you help keep the oceans cleaner and make life more convenient. There’s no need to transfer food to another container when you can heat it up in the one you brought. Reusable bags are an easy and effective way to say no to plastic. I’m a big advocate of this, and it makes me feel great compared to seeing others who don’t.

Indian tiffin carrier for packing food, a sustainable alternative to disposable containers

Recycling

At Nava’s Zen, we focus on recycling and minimizing new materials. Our walls are painted, not tiled, and we use real plants instead of plastic ones. Even our holders are repurposed flower pots, demonstrating the value of recycling and reducing waste.

Astro disk recycled into two trays with rope, hanging from the ceiling for eco-friendly decor

Minimize Electricity Usage

Reducing electricity usage is simple. Turn off lights when they’re not in use, cut back on air-conditioning, and limit screen time. Even powering down your laptop helps. I’ve adapted to not using air-conditioning, and I’ve found it reduces both my electricity bills and health struggles, such as bone pain. I only use the water heater when it’s really cold- otherwise, normal temperature water feels refreshing.

Laptops on a table, representing minimal energy usage and productivity

Nature Zenness

Taking time to appreciate nature is a key part of eco-friendly living. Gardening purifies the air, provides fresh food, and nurtures mental well-being. Gardening is a form of zen therapy, connecting you to the earth and promoting a sense of peace. It’s a sustainable way to care for the environment while nurturing yourself (THE BEGINNERS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GROWING HERBS).

Nava’s Zen garden featuring a huge sunflower, chilli plants and lush greens, creating a sustainable and relaxing environment

Can you resonate with these eco-friendly habits?

Think of those who are struggling with the impacts of climate change - floods, landslides, and unbearable heat. Don’t contribute further to these challenges. Let’s all take responsibility for the future we leave behind.


(Ms. Nava is a Zen entrepreneur who founded Nava's Zen at 58 and is now in her 60s. She is a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. With over 22 years of lecturing experience, including 13 years in the Curtin University Australia Degree Twinning Program, she shares her passion for Zenfulness through the small steps we take towards aging gracefully and fostering personal growth).


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