5 Reasons You Should Try Yoga

Okay, I will admit that there was a time that I thought yoga was kind of silly. Granted, I didn't know much about it, but I certainly didn't consider it a workout. I thought it was slow and boring and a waste of time. Kinda harsh, but you might be thinking the same thing. I thought I would never try yoga, but if there is one thing I love, it's finding new ways to get fit and feel better about my body and my health. So, I started with a simple beginner video on YouTube, and have been doing daily yoga for almost a month now. Suffice to say, I've fallen in love. To the naysayers, check out this list. I hope it inspires you to try it even once!

1. It IS a workout.
I used to think that the only type of workout that was worth anything was the type that left you panting, sweating, and feeling like you were going to die. Untrue. I have done yoga sequences specifically designed for weight loss. It does raise your heart rate, it does burn fat, and it does strengthen your muscles. Sounds like a workout to me. Plus the low impact can be perfect for those who are just getting started with exercise or those with injuries.

2. Increased flexibility
I am about as flexible as a wooden rod. Before I started yoga, I couldn't even touch my toes. I can now, but more importantly I've remembered how good it feels to just stretch. It gets your blood flowing, and it's a wonderful way to loosen up in the morning.

3. Relaxation 
We all know that in this day and age we can get a bit carried away with our busy schedules. We're always running, and barely have a moment to ourselves. This stress contributes to all kinds of health problems. Yoga is the perfect opportunity to connect with yourself, and push all distractions out of your mind. The deep breathing alone can be enough to quell the anxiety of a busy schedule. Give yourself the opportunity to unwind.

4. Overall health
Weight-baring exercise (like yoga), is awesome for healthy bones. We tend to reach our maximum bone mass at around 30, and then it all goes downhill from there. During yoga, you spend most of your time resisting gravity, which puts a strain on your bones and muscles, and forces new growth. The deep breathing is great for your lungs, the overall practice is great for your mental and emotional well-being, and the increased blood circulation improves your organ function.

5. Easily accessible 
Pretty sure one of my favorite parts of yoga is how easy the set-up is. I don't have to put on my socks, or sneakers, or even a sports bra if I'm not feeling it. I usually just wear whatever I woke up in, roll my mat out, and get going. There are tons of videos available on YouTube that will walk you through the poses in a beginner friendly way. So, what are you waiting for? Go improve your health, flexibility, muscle mass, bone strength, and mental-well being already!

10 Fun Ways to Release Your Inner Child

Kids have it all figured out, man. They're honest, full of energy, and unashamedly themselves. We start out as these lovely little human beings, and somehow morph into this strange thing called an adult. I believe that the more we can tap into our inner childishness, the better. It makes us feel free, it connects us to ourselves. It reminds us of a simpler time, and it forces us enjoy life a little bit more.

1. Go outside
Remember when we were young and 90% of our time was spent outside? I grew up playing hopskotch and rollerblading and playing in the sprinklers until it got dark. Being inside was like a sin, and to this day nothing makes me feel more alive than spending all day out in the fresh air.

2. Play games
Kids take any opportunity they can get to play games; board games, arcade games, video games, etc. Why don't we? Games are just plain fun, and in my opinion, we need to make more time for them.

3. Go to the park
I light up like a child every time I get to go to a park. The swings are my personal favorite. The novelty of parks seems to wear off as we get older. The next time you're there, enjoy it!

4. Hang out with kids
Being around children forces you to use your imagination, be a little crazy, and generally expel whatever energy you have left after all of those adult obligations.

5. Play dress up
I love Halloween, and reason #1 is that I get to dress up. Kids play dress up on the daily. Maybe it becomes less socially acceptable as we get older, but that doesn't mean we can't take advantage of every possible opportunity!

6. Try new things
Rarely does a child turn down the opportunity to try something new. They are adventure seekers. They want to see the world and experience it all. It seems that somewhere along the line we become a little more reserved. Next time you see something that you've never done before, just do it man!

7. Go barefoot
Go outside barefoot, and I guarantee you will flashback to your childhood. Something about being barefoot is incredibly liberating. Connect your body with the earth. Feel the sand, dirt, cement, grass, etc. underneath your toes. Run around, splash some water, kick the sand up, or play some hopskotch! ;)

8. Display your talents

I'll tell ya, if a kid has a talent, you'll know about it. They have no shame in breaking out in song or dance, or showing you their magic trick. As we get older we start to worry about being judged. We refrain from showing our talents because we're worried about what other people may think. Talent should not be wasted. You know the drill, sing like no one is listening, dance like no one's watching, etc etc. 

9. Follow your dreams

As adults we tend to squash our dreams like helpless little bugs on hardwood. We have a list full of things we would love to do, but we pretend like we don't have the time or resources to do them. Kids believe with their full hearts that they will get to do everything they have ever wanted to. Don't give up on those things that you have always wanted to do. 

10. Reminisce with movies/TV shows

I actually really adore watching shows and movies that were my favorites as a child. Watching Step by Step or Boy Meets World takes me back to grade school when my brother and I would watch them every day when we got home from school. Disney movies are always classic as well. While you're at it, listen to some old school music too!

So go on, embrace your inner child. As they say, age is nothing but a number. 

7 Simple Tips for a Healthier Thanksgiving

1. Have a sensible breakfast
A lot of people think they should skip breakfast or lunch and save up their appetite for the big meal. However, if you go to dinner and you're starving, you are much more likely to make poor decisions and overeat. Breakfast kick starts your metabolism, which will help you burn more calories throughout the day. Eat balanced meals, and you will have more self control come dinner time.

2. Take a walk
If you can't pull in the reins on your food choices (or even if you can), offset your calorie intake by moving more. Take a long walk or do a low impact workout before/after your meal. Also, the fresh air will help with that food coma.

3. Don't drink your calories
The majority of us will eat way more on Thanksgiving than we do any other day. No need to add to that by drinking hundreds of calories. I like to stick with water. Tea is a good option as well. Adding some lemon will help with your digestion.
4. Dig in to that relish tray 
If your Thanksgiving meal includes a relish tray, load your plate up with that before the main event. Vegetables are fibrous, incredibly nutritious, and will fill you up a bit.
5. Go for the pumpkin pie
I never skip dessert, but I do try to go for something that has a hint of nutritional value. Pumpkin pie is a safer bet than other pies that are double crusted, such as apple or cherry. Top with whip cream instead of ice cream, and try to make your slice a bit modest in size.
6. Wait a bit before grabbing seconds
Apparently it takes us roughly 20 minutes to realize that we are full. So, fill your plate up once, chew slowly and give yourself time before you head back in for seconds. As much as you may want more stuffing, wait a few minutes and you might find that you're fuller than you thought.

Why I Absolutely Will Not Be Shopping on Thanksgiving

I was out shopping with my Mom the other day and noticed a glaring sign on the wall stating "Open Thanksgiving Day". Ugh. I'm sure you've all been hearing a lot about stores opening on Thanksgiving, and as with most things, there are arguments for and against it. Obviously there are the people who are desperate for the deals, and want to get to the sales 12 hours earlier than others. There are some employees who want the extra hours or overtime, and others who just want to enjoy Thanksgiving at home with their family. There are those who think that Thanksgiving is a sacred holiday and no one should have to work it, and others who really just don't care. I fall pretty heavily on the "retailers should not be open on Thanksgiving" side.
Truthfully, I will never understand how this mass amount of retailers have decided to be open on Thanksgiving evening, or even morning, and stay open straight into Black Friday. Not seeming to mind that they are completely obliterating any chance of their employees enjoying the holiday. Many huge retailers are actually opening right at dinner time; 4:00, 5:00, or 6:00 p.m., with some even opening at 8 a.m. ON Thanksgiving, and staying open through Friday night. This hurts my soul in so many different ways. It's a holiday, people. Not just any holiday, but a day that should inspire us to give thanks for all that we have, and in true American fashion we have managed to make it about money. Why allow workers to spend a relaxing day at home with their family making memories when you could make more money and beat out your competitors?  Has everyone forgotten that America has actually set aside an entire day for these sales? It's called Black Friday. As ridiculous as it is, we have already turned the day after Thanksgiving, into a day of wanting more.
The concept of Black Friday itself can be pretty disgusting. We have all heard the horror stories. People trampled or shot over the newest video game console, or pair of tennis shoes. It is unreal to think this is what it has come to. As a culture, we are obsessed with having the newest and the best, and paying the least for it. I could rant about Black Friday for quite a while, but that's not really the point of this post. Black Friday is not a holiday, it's a day geared towards shopping. The last three years I've worked in retail, and I know what to expect from the day after Thanksgiving. It isn't pretty, but it's predictable. Each year I knew that I would have to work a crazy Black Friday, but I also knew that I wouldn't have to work the day before. I've never worked a Thanksgiving, and I don't plan on it. One day of greed fueled madness is enough for me.

(Enjoying the holidays, with my family)

However, by opening on Thanksgiving Day, in nothing more than an attempt to squeeze more money out of the public, retailers are encouraging this greediness, and throwing their employees in the cross hairs. Truthfully, if you shop on Thanksgiving, you're not much better. The stores only open because the people line up. Imagine if Target opened their doors on Thanksgiving Day and not one person was waiting outside. Imagine if not one single person shopped in the hours that fell on the holiday, if everyone waited until 12 a.m. when it was officially Black Friday. Do you think they would still open on Thanksgiving the next year? Why bother? What's a sale if no one shows up?
It's time for some of us to get our priorities in check. It's time to remember what the holiday is really about. You want the deals? It isn't just about you. By shopping on Thanksgiving Day you're encouraging retailers to open earlier and earlier, thus requiring employees to miss time with their family on a holiday, or even just enjoy a day off on their own. Trust me, they are already stressed enough about dealing with crazed deal-obsessed customers on Black Friday, likely during a really long, possibly overnight shift. At the very least they deserve a relaxing day off beforehand, and so do you. Forget about the deals, stay home with your family, take some photos, make some memories, and get a good night's rest before you head out for some shopping, on Black Friday.

7 Reasons You Don't Have to Travel the World in Your 20s

If you're like me, you read a lot of blogs. The majority of blogs that I read are travel blogs, written by brave and beautiful 20 somethings who are traveling the world. More times than I can count, I've seen blogs titled "Why You Should Quit Your Job and Travel the World in Your 20s". I read them every time. I do find them inspirational, but I'm also left with a different feeling at the end of these blogs. Because I am in my 20s, and I'm not traveling the world, I often find myself feeling useless, or wasteful, or static. I end up feeling like I'm wasting my life away at my job. That I'm not making the most of my 20s because I'm not on the other side of the Atlantic. So, I'd like to counter this argument. You all know I love traveling, but I also believe in living your life the way you want to live it. If you're in your 20s and not traveling the world, here are a few reasons why that is totally okay.

1. You may actually be furthering your career.
Many articles may tell you that you should quit whatever job you have and travel the world. Your job will be there when you get back. There are plenty of jobs out there. You may know that this isn't always the case. Good jobs are not easy to come by, and they are certainly in demand. If you up and leave yours, there will be someone else there waiting to step in and take over your career. If you have a job that you enjoy, there is no shame in wanting to stay there, pay your dues, and further your career.

2. You may be in school.
For many of us, a large part of our 20s is spent in school. You may graduate college when you're 23, 24, 25, and you might even decide to go to graduate school. Maybe you took time off after high school and you don't even start college until you're 25. Maybe you graduated college and decided to go back for another degree in your late 20s. Expanding your knowledge is never a bad thing, and if you're studying and attending classes, it can make traveling the world next to impossible.

3. You may already have a family.
I'm only 24, but many (and I mean many) of my peers already have families. Tons of them are married, and almost as many have children. Whether you have kids or not, I'm sure you can imagine that traveling the world with children isn't always an option. Not to mention that babies are expensive, and I'm sure those fun funds are fast depleting. Also, good luck getting those babies away from their grandparents for an extended period of time!

4. You may just have no interest in traveling. 
For some people, there may not be any interest in traveling. I honestly don't think there is any shame in this. Personally, I love traveling, but I also find it draining and intimidating at times. Planning trips is a big feat, and living out of a suitcase for an extended period of time is not easy. If you're not super interested in traveling, you may not feel like going through these trials, and there is no reason to feel bad about that.

5. You may care more about being with the people you love. 
I'll be honest, there have been times that I thought about dropping everything and traveling the world for as many months as I can manage. The truth is that I have family and friends at home that I can't bring myself to leave. I just can't imagine giving up my time with them, because no one is around forever. Maybe you have family members in poor health, or who need you at the present moment. You should never feel bad about staying home to spend time with these people. After all, like I always say, the relationships we cultivate are the most important things in this life.

6. You may be scared to go alone. 
In my opinion, this is a legitimate reason no matter what anyone tells you. You'll often read that the world isn't a scary or dangerous place, and you should not be afraid to travel alone. The fact is that there are scary people and places in the world, and if you're not educated and careful, you could put yourself in dangerous situations. Or if you're introverted like me, the idea of being alone and having to navigate a foreign place makes you very nervous. It's very unlikely that you'll find me traveling abroad alone at any point in my life. I'm cautious by nature, and it simply would not be comfortable for me. If you feel the same, don't let anyone make you feel bad about that.

7. You may be saving your money. 
You'll often hear that your 20s are the best time to travel because you have more disposable money. If you're living with your parents, you may not be paying rent, and you likely have more money to spend. You're young, you're working, and you should put your savings towards travel while you still can. Personally, I save as much of my money as I can, and I'm saving it for things like a down payment on a house, bills, emergency car repair, and yes, future vacations. You won't find me blowing my entire savings account on a trip around the world, because the fact is, when I get home, I need money for my real life.

So, there you have it. If you're a 20 something who is working, going to school, or generally just enjoying being at home, realize that there is nothing wrong with that. Please don't feel like you're wasting your 20s if you're not filling up your passport. As long as you're happy, nothing else matters. As they say, time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.

Let's Talk About Chivalry

Ah, the mysterious concept of chivalry. I read an article today that was essentially a list of chivalrous things that today's men should do more often, and it sparked something in me. I hear about chivalry a lot, mostly about how it's dead, whatever that means. I wanted to take a closer look. Webster defines chivalry as the system of values (such as loyalty and honor) that knights in the Middle Ages were expected to follow (...okay) OR an honorable and polite way of behaving, especially toward women. Obviously the more practiced use of this word is the latter. The most common argument seems to be that men should be more chivalrous these days, because "That's just how they did it back then.". To each their own, everyone is entitled to their opinion yada yada, but I have a tiny problem with this.
Firstly, it's an odd concept to focus on the way things were many, many years ago, and complain that they aren't the same today. Things change. People move forward. Societies grow. Obviously there are many hilariously outdated rules that no longer make sense in the world we live in today. Remember when women couldn't wear pants, or vote, or be in the armed forces, or generally do anything without permission? Good times, right?
The chivalrous acts mentioned in the article included some real gems, such as guys bringing a gift when they meet their girlfriend's parents (that was a thing?), offering their jacket when it's cold out ('cause guys can be cold, no worries), dropping their lady off at the door while they park (they can walk alone), and the old standbys like pulling out your chair, opening your car door, or really opening any door for you. Heaven forbid that we females ever have to touch a door handle.

(if only there was a guy around to close that door)

My main problem with trying to implement such rules today is that our society is in a completely different place than it was when these were ideals. Because what you hear about today is that most women are fighting for equal rights. We're supporting this praised/despised concept of feminism, defined as the advocacy of women's rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men. We want to be equal to men, in every spectrum. I'm totally into feminism, in fact I could probably write another blog post about it all together. The short version of that would be that I think all human beings should be treated with equal respect.
How do we spout off about needing to be treated as complete equals to men, while in the same breath saying that men should really do all of these things for us simply because they're men and we're women and that's just how it's supposed to be? "Open the door for me, but not because I can't do it myself, because I'm your equal and completely capable. Give me your jacket, but not because I need you to provide for me, it's just polite. Pay for our dates, but not because I'm not an independent woman who can't pay for herself, I can, but you should pay anyway, it's just the chivalrous thing to do." I feel for the guys on this one, I really do. How do they implement this idea of chivalry, without threatening the notion that we're strong, powerful women who don't need no man?
Gentlemen, by all means, be polite and respectful towards your lady. Good luck staying in a relationship if you aren't. But I don't believe in the pressure to follow a set of ideals that were made up decades ago to propagate the idea that woman are less than men and should be handled as such. I don't know how I can rightfully claim that I'm totally a man's equal, but he should probably open my car door for me. To be clear, I won't complain if he does, but I also won't cry about it if he doesn't. Bear in mind that every woman is different. Some may read this and think "Forget this chick, my man better take Chivalry 101 before he dates me.", and that's 100% fine. Personally I would rather live in a more equal society, where women do just as many nice things for men, and men reciprocate not because they feel pressured to, but because they want to.
I've held the door for men before. Do you know why? Because I got to the door first. I've paid for dates and walked on the outside of the sidewalk and please don't for a second think I need you to pull my chair out for me (I think it's terribly awkward). How about instead of focusing on men being chivalrous towards women, why don't we focus on human beings being respectful towards each other in general. Why don't we cultivate a world of kindness all around? Hold the door for anyone. Be polite and courteous to everyone. Then in 50 years when our grandkids are looking to our ideals, and they're being open-minded, kind-hearted individuals, they can say "That's just how they did it back then.".

4 Reasons You're Perfect Exactly the Way You Are

In a world where we are completely surrounded by images of what we "should" look like, it can be hard to have any shred of self-confidence. We live in a time when it is extremely easy to list off the things that are wrong with us. A majority of us could probably list off our flaws more easily than the things we actually like about ourselves. We look in the mirror and see nothing but what we could change. Even if we do like a few things about ourselves, we don't talk about that, for risk of being too cocky or shallow. While I may not be 100% confident 100% of the time, the older I get, the more I appreciate myself, and I'm telling you that you are perfect exactly the way you are. Just stay with me here.

1. There is only one you. This is so incredibly special and important to remember. We spend so much time wanting to look like someone else, or be like someone else. I know I'm guilty of becoming a fan of an actor/singer/what have you, and then doing whatever I can to be just like them. The fact is that trying to be like someone else will not make you any more confident in who you are. In fact, it will likely have the opposite effect. How incredible is it that there is only one you? Over seven billion people on this earth and no one else in the world is just like you. No one else has your exact same quirks, or freckles, or laugh. We are supremely unique beings, and that in itself is something to be confident in. Why waste your one life trying to be like someone else? Instead, try to own exactly who you are, and share it with the world. To borrow an old adage "Be yourself, everyone else is already taken."

2. Your so-called "flaws" are what make you special. We have been taught that there is one version of perfection, and if you stray from that in any way, there is something wrong with you. Often the things that make us stand out, are the things we want to change. When I was young I was taller than everyone else my age, and I hated it. Now I absolutely love being tall. The truth is there are endless types of perfection, and we all hold some of them. You are your own version of perfect, and there is nothing wrong with owning that. The things that make you different, are the things you should appreciate most. Imagine how incredibly boring it would be if we all fit into the same mold. Embrace everything that makes you special or different, and display it proudly.

3. Society is wrong. Sometimes I wonder why I feel the need to make changes to my appearance and the answer is always "Because society has taught me that I have to.". I straighten my hair because society says frizz is no bueno. I wear foundation because society says my skin tone sucks if it's not even. I work out partially because I want to be healthy, but mostly because society has taught me that my body isn't beautiful unless I'm fit. Don't get me wrong, I love makeup and all of that crap. I really do. But the idea is that I shouldn't feel like I have to make myself up to feel good. The truth of the matter is that society is wrong. Society has created these ideals, but who says we have to follow them? Who says we have to believe them? Why can't we create our own ideals? 60 years ago women did whatever they could to get curves, then they were taught that being stick thin was beautiful. Do not let society dictate what makes you beautiful. Say it with me, society is wrong. Create your own confidence.

(make-up is fun, but you're beautiful with or without it)

4. People love you for who you are, not for what you look like. Think about the people who love you. Do they love you because of your perfectly toned body? Do they like to be around you because of your perfect skin, or your soft hair? Hell no! Your loved ones adore you because of you who you are. They love the things you say, the way you make them feel. They like being around you because you make them smile and laugh. They have you in their life because you add something special to it. If you stripped yourself of every beauty inducing product, would your loved ones want to be around you any less? Picture your funeral. Is anyone saying "We miss so-and-so because they always applied their make-up perfectly."? It's ridiculous to think that anyone loves you for any reason other than who you are. So, next time you feel like you're worth less because you don't match up to society's ideals, think about the people who love you, and remember that they don't give a shit.

Yurt Life! A Night in a Yurt at the Coast

When was the last time you did something for the first time? Mine was last week, when my dear friend Amy and I drove to the Oregon coast to stay the night in a yurt! Having never even seen a yurt before, I was as always, really excited to try something new. I have stayed the night in a teepee once before, and I was expecting something pretty similar, a glorified tent of some sort. I was pleasantly surprised.
We were registered through Reserve America to stay in a yurt at Nehalem Bay State Park, for a modest $52 for one night. The park had showers, bathrooms, and much to my enjoyment, a playground. Our yurt site was all of 1 minute from the beach, and we took advantage of the lack of rain while we could. The yurt itself was so much more than I expected! We got our key from the host and pulled into our spot. Outside there was a fire pit, and a picnic table covered by a deck.

Inside we were greeted with hard wood floors, a futon, a bunk bed (queen bed on bottom, twin on top) a table, and a few chairs. The three windows all had curtains, and leaving them open let in daylight that lit the yurt completely. There was a heater (hallelujah!) and electricity hook-up as well. Basically, short of a kitchen, the yurt had everything we could need. I said the phrase "I just want to live here." more than a few times that night.

Regardless of the rain and the 60-70 mph winds that were raging all night long, the beds were comfortable, and I felt safe and secure. The heater kept it nice and toasty, and the other people staying in the park were quiet as soon as 10pm rolled around. I definitely could have stayed for a few more nights. I highly recommend a night in a yurt, if anything just for the experience. They're cheaper than most hotels, and they're the perfect mix of rustic and modern. Check your local park's website as many allow pets in the yurts as well! Just make sure you bring your own bedding, some snacks, and a few of your favorite people. 

My Favorite Simple Clean Breakfasts

Last year when I decided to overhaul my diet and fitness routine, I did a lot of searching for clean breakfast options. Breakfast is an incredibly important meal, and with all of the options available, it quickly became my favorite. These meals became my staples. They're nutritious, filling, and tasty!

1. Pancakes! 
Oh, did pancakes become my favorite meal after I discovered how healthy they could be. I'm not talking about the premixed pancake powder, or the kind packed with white flour and sugar. There are actually many ways to make pancakes with nothing but clean ingredients. The simplest recipe I've seen is a banana mixed with two eggs. That's it! That's your batter. My go-to recipe includes nothing but a bit of vanilla almond milk, a banana, and 1/2 cup of oats. I blend it up in a small blender and toss a bit of cinnamon on top while they're cooking. If I want to get really crazy I'll throw in some organic dark chocolate bits. Top with agave or all-natural peanut butter. Healthy fats for the win!

2. Smoothies!

You can never go wrong with a healthy smoothie. The great thing is that they are so versatile, and they're perfect if you're in a hurry. I always try to include both fruits and vegetables. Spinach is a great add in. It's mostly tasteless, and adds fiber, iron, protein, and many other vitamins and nutrients. Any fruit will do, but I prefer bananas and berries. My base is always vanilla almond milk, and sometimes I throw in some vanilla yogurt. If you're a chocolate lover, you do can chocolate almond milk, a banana, spinach, some cocoa, and peanut butter. If you prefer a tropical taste, make your base orange juice, and throw in some pineapple. For extra health points, top with something like chia seeds, sliced almonds, goji berries, coconut shreds, or flax seed. The opportunities are endless. 

3. Tofu Scramble! 
Tofu gets a bad wrap sometimes, but I am a supporter of scrambles through and through. I generally eat them with beans and spinach, but the combinations are endless! Avocado on top is a must. If I'm feeling fancy I'll toast some whole grain bread, and put some Earth Balance on it too. I like to throw in some kind of fruit for "dessert" as well.

It's true what they say, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Go enjoy it!

11 of the Easiest Ways to Go Green

I know I've said it before, but I am a huge believer in balance in all aspects of my life. This means that I don't lay in bed binging on Netflix 24/7 (I mean I try not to), but I also don't spend every spare minute of my time at the gym or at Cross-fit. I don't buy all organic fruits and vegetables, but I also don't fill my cart up with sweets and trans fats. I don't obsess over doing everything I can to live a green lifestyle, but I do make frequent decisions that help decrease my carbon footprint. Nothing flashy, it is merely about taking a higher responsibility on planet Earth. These steps are all simple and very easy to incorporate into your everyday life, and I encourage you to do just that.

1. Be conscious when using utilities. This one is pretty straightforward. Just pay closer attention to the resources you're using, and whether or not you absolutely need to use them as much as you do. Take shorter showers. Turn the water off when brushing your teeth. Don't blast your heat/AC unless you really need it. Unplug things when you aren't using them. Shut the the lights off when you leave a room. Don't run the dishwasher/washer until you have a full load. Nudge your thermostat down 2°F during non-summer months and you’ll stop 500 pounds of carbon dioxide gas from entering the atmosphere over the course of a year, says The Live Earth Global Warming Survival Handbook. The chances to conserve are pretty endless.

(grab a sweatshirt and turn the thermostat down a bit!)

2. Recycle and compost. I live in Oregon, so recycling is second nature for me. It always surprises me to learn this isn't true everywhere else. Recycling and composting are so important for the future of our planet, and a crazy percentage of households don't do it. For a list of things you can recycle, check here. For more info on composting, click here! It is a huge part of sustaining our resources, and if you make it a daily habit, it will soon become second nature for you as well.

3. Buy larger. When buying products you use regularly, getting the largest size available, or buying in bulk, usually means saving some materials used for packaging. If you buy the 16 oz. shampoo instead of the two 8 oz. shampoos, you're saving plastic! Many products offer small containers, and then the option to buy large "refills". The same goes for food. Try to avoid buying the small individually packaged foods. Instead of buying the pre-packaged and individually wrapped, buy the food items and portion them into food containers yourself.

4. Use your car less. If you haven't already, please check out my blog post about The Alternative Travel Project. I outline the benefits of escaping your car, and using alternative means of travel to get around. One of the huge benefits is reducing the toxic chemicals you release into the air. Car emissions make up 1/3 of all air pollution in the US. Giving up your car for even one day a week can make a huge dent. Ride your bike, walk, or take public transit!

5. Reconsider your cleaning supplies. Most store bought cleaners are surprisingly toxic, and can do damage to your lungs, thyroid, skin, etc. They can also pollute the water and the air. A great alternative is a mix of 9 parts water to 1 part vinegar in a spray bottle. Click here for more non-toxic substitutions.

6. Green up your gift wrap. With Christmas coming, consider the ways that you can reduce your waste this holiday season. Rather than buying new gift wrap, try wrapping your gifts in the paper you already have hanging around. Wrapping in newspaper, magazines, or left-over gift wrap can add a cute DIY flair to your gift. While you're at it, don't be afraid to regift (I love doing this.) If you own something you never use, and you know someone else would love it, send it their way! You're minimizing your clutter, saving money, and giving someone a gift they will enjoy.

7. Consider meatless Mondays. Being a vegetarian has many health benefits, but if you're like me, you might not be able to completely give up meat just yet. You can still reap some of these benefits from giving up meat for just one day a week, and you're helping the environment when you do. According to the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization, the meat industry generates nearly 20% of the man-made greenhouse gas emissions. If you absolutely can't skip meat for one day, try to go for grass-fed.

8. Use reusable bags and coffee cups. This is one that I could be better at. It really comes down to remembering to bring your bags with you into the grocery store, and your cups with you into the coffee shop. Starbucks offers a reusable cup for $1, and you save $.10 on your drink each time you bring your cup in instead of using one of their paper ones. Most other coffee shops that I've been to also offer a discount when you bring your own cup. I leave mine in my car so it's always available to me. These days they also make reusable shopping bags that fold into a pouch that is smaller than your fist. Drop those babies in your car or purse, and bring them with you to any shopping excursion!

9. Air-dry your hair. Reducing drying time by even 5 minutes a day saves almost 45 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year, says green living expert Sara Snow. Not to mention all of that heat is awful for your hair! Give it a break, and go au naturale.

10. Use glass containers, instead of plastic ones. Glass containers are awesome. I'm a big fan of pyrex. Plastic food containers contain chemicals that are released when microwaved. Not only do these chemicals leach into the air, but also into your food. Glass containers don't contain these toxins, they don't stain, and they last longer. They are well worth the investment.

11. Avoid air fresheners and scented candles. Imagine my disappointment when I learned that candles are not as innocent as they seem. Most are made of paraffin wax, and when burned release known carcinogens like toluene and benzine. You can also typically find artificial scents, dyes, and lead in your common candle. You're not any better off using air fresheners. Most contain toxins like propane, butane, formaldehyde, and acetone. These toxins cause a wide array of health problems, and pollute our air. Try Beeswax candles, which actually help clean the air, and avoid air fresheners all together.

The Alternative Travel Project

I wanted to take some time to write a post about a cause that's really inspiring to me, and fully aligns with the purpose of this blog by supporting health, happiness, and having a positive impact on the world. To preface, I'll tell you that I'm a huge fan of the T.V. show Castle, and therefore became a fan of Stana Katic. (Watch the show you guys, it's seriously so good.) In 2010 Stana started The Alternative Travel Project, and she's used her voice to turn it into a worldwide community. If you've never heard of it, congrats! I'm about to tell you how awesome it is. The Alternative Travel Project is a global initiative aimed at encouraging people to travel outside of the bubble of their car, even if just for one day. This means walking to get your Starbucks (you know it's not that far), biking to work, taking public transit to the market, etc. The benefits are plentiful, and apply to anyone and everyone.

For starters, and this is a big one, going car-free provides countless benefits for your health. The cardiovascular workout you get from walking and cycling reduces the risk of obesity, premature death, heart disease, depression, cancer, and so many more. Physical inactivity is one of the top causes of death in developed countries, and exercise is the cure we're not utilizing as we should. It's amazingly simple. Move more, live longer. Not only will you burn more fat (and who doesn't love that), but you'll increase your strength, stamina, and muscle tone. This kind of cardiovascular exercise also decreases stress and can make you more productive in your day to day life. To recap, regularly ditching your car can lead to a stronger, happier, healthier, less stressed you.

Not convinced yet? Let's talk about the advantages to the environment. We live in a car centric world, and it's clear that the impact driving has on the earth isn't a positive one. What you probably didn't realize is that cars are huge energy sucks even before they're on the road. They're massive piles of paint, plastic, steel, etc. and unfortunately at the end of their life, many of these plastics and other chemicals stay in the environment. You're probably thinking "I already own a car, so can't really fix this one.". So let's talk about the big one, fuel emission.

If everyone in the world went car free for one day, 11.7 million tons of CO2 would be saved! It takes over a billion trees (1,170,000,000) to absorb all of that CO2. One day car free, saves one billion trees. ATP

You like trees, right?

We are all very familiar with gas, and how much of it we use, but again, the energy suck process begins long before it makes its way into our gas tank. Extracting petroleum is a process that damages eco-systems, and shipping it consumes a lot of energy as well. Then there's the actual driving of the car, which emits smog, carbon dioxide, and other toxic chemicals. These go directly into the air we breathe, we can lead to huge health problems and premature death. Vehicles make up about 1/3 of all air pollution in the US, and you can have a positive impact on this number just by driving less.

A car driver uses more energy & creates more air pollution in just 4 years than a transit passenger will in 40 years! American Public Transport Association

Still sure you can't make it anywhere without your car? Let me hit you where it really hurts, your wallet. Going car-free saves you money!

Transportation is the second highest household expense for the average American. The annual cost of operating a bicycle is approximately $308 a year, which is less than the average monthly car payment. Smart Growth America

 You already know you spend far too much money on gasoline. Not to mention car insurance, general upkeep, unexpected costs for repairs, and paying for the car itself. Imagine not having to budget for gas money anymore, or even just lowering the amount of dollars you shell out for gas on a regular basis. You could use that money to buy things you actually enjoy, or save it for that vacation you've been dreaming about. Not only are you keeping more money in your wallet, your community saves as well. According to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, if just one out of every ten adults started a regular walking program, the U.S. could save $5.6 billion in health care costs - enough to pay for the college tuition of one million students. Also, the ATPA reports that biking and walking projects create twice as many jobs as highway projects.

You guys, I promise I'm trying to keep this blog a decent length, but it's hard when there are so many benefits supporting alternative travel. I could throw them at you all day. Instead I will tell you a bit about my personal ATP story, and then I'll leave you be, promise! 

When I first heard about the Alternative Travel Project, my commute to work was a modest five miles each way. I totally thought I wasn't making that big of a negative impact on the environment, because my drive was so short. Little did I know, 60% of the pollution created by automobile emissions happens in the first few minutes of operation, meaning that shorter car trips are more polluting on a per mile basis than longer trips (Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center). So, after reading more about ATP, I took the plunge. I got on my bike for the first time in years, and I biked to work. I won't lie, it was difficult, but it was also incredibly freeing. 

(before and after faces, it was totally worth it)

Once you're out there, you realize you have nothing to rely on but yourself. You are powering your movement. You are your vehicle. As I rode on the bike path right next to the freeway and I watched all of the cars, I couldn't help but feel like I was doing something right. I was having a positive impact, and I was getting some sunshine and my workout in while I did it. I also encountered people. Yes, real people! Not the kind that cut you off and don't know how to use a blinker. I smiled at and said "Hi!" to other cyclists, dog walkers, runners, etc. I noticed things about my community that I never noticed when I was trapped in the bubble of my car. 

I got to work feeling totally awesome, and when I got back home, I didn't have to spend 30 minutes in my room on a workout video, because I had spent nearly an hour on my bike. Had you asked me a year ago, I never would have expected that I'd ever commute to work by cycling. Trust me, if I can do it, you can do it!

If you want to keep up with this project, I encourage you to like their Facebook, follow them on Twitter and Instagram, and check out their super inspiring videos on YouTube. (Seriously, sometimes all it takes is watching one of those videos, and I'm thisclose to swearing off my car for good.) You can also check out their website, where you can see stories of other ATP'ers around the globe, and read more about the benefits and the origin of the cause. Please, consider busting out your bike, scooter, rollerblades, pogo stick, skateboard, or just use your feet and go explore your community. I'd love to hear your story if you do.