For the last couple of months, I have tried to life my life more naturally. By doing a few things differently, I feel more connected to the earth, I am saving money, I am reducing the amount of reducing plastic waste that I produce, and simply feel better. But, I still have a long way to go; transitioning into a natural lifestyle takes some work, but I am going to do my best! Here are the things I have changed (so far) that have helped me live a healthier, more natural life.

1. Use essential oils

There is nothing that essential oils can't do. They can be heated and uses as aromatherapy, you can rub them on areas on your body that are sore and they’ll ease the pain, and they can help you sleep when you sprinkle them on your pillow.

2. Buy re-usable shopping bags.

You can find cheap, cute re-usable shopping bags at most grocery stores. They are trendy, durable, and reduce plastic waste! Any way to reduce waste is a huge help for the planet

3. Get a recycling bin

Seriously, get one.

4. Have at least one plant in every room

Plants complete the rooms they’re in and make you feel connected to the earth even if your live in the city. Water them every day, talk to them, and give them names, become pals with them.

5. Eat more fruits and veggies

Fruits and veggies are super juicy and yummy and can be added as a side to literally everything. Eat as many colorful ones as possible, they're the tasitest and (I think) the best for you.

6. Take a multivitamin everyday

They keep your bones healthy and your immune system fighting!

7. Drink plenty of water

They say that you should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day. Instead of keeping count of how many glasses of water your drink, buy a ½ gallon water bottle and take it with you everywhere. Top it off with a splash of apple cider vinegar, orange slices, and mint leaves and viola, you have a delicious detox water!

8. Take shots of apple cider vinegar

Start every morning with a shot of apple cider vinegar! Yes it's kind of gross but you will feel amazing all day!

9. Make your own shampoo/ conditioner

Shampoo and conditioner are extremely easy to make. For shampoo, just mix baking soda and water until it becomes paste-like. For conditioner use, you guessed it, APPLE CIDER VINEGAR! These ingredients make your hair soft, shiny, and brings out natural curls.

10. Exercise

Getting your body moving is obviously important for personal health, but it can also improve your relationship with the earth. Hike in the woods, run along the river bank, work in your garden. Embrace your inner Walt Wittman.

11. Make art

Paint a colorful picture, make jewelry, write a poem, rearrange your home, knit, do anything that gets your creative juices flowing.

12. Get enough sleep

8 hours every night!

13. De-clutter your home

We are all guilty of having stuff in our houses that we never ever use. take a day and box up the things that you haven’t used in over a year and sell them at a consignment shop or donate them. Your house will feel brand new and you will feel refreshed!