Yaupon
Looking for a light, slightly sweet tea with jitter-free caffeine and no bitter tannins? Look no further than yaupon tea: the only caffeinated plant native to North America. Often harvested responsibly and with no importing required, it’s a stupendously sustainable tea alternative. Plus, it contains antioxidants, helps regulate cholesterol, boosts focus and mood, and can reduce inflammation, making it a fabulous morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Tiny home gardens
Even if you don’t have room for a garden in your backyard, you can still serve fresh produce for dinner. Indoor planters and tower gardens that are designed for small spaces are just the thing. In addition to brightening your mood, chowing down on fresh greens is also more nutritious. Inspired? Plant your own tiny garden or help someone start theirs by donating $10 to the Million Gardens Movement.
Pre-owned fashion
Websites and boutiques that offer pre-loved clothing—some that even specialize in designer brands—are popping up everywhere. And fashionistas are catching on to the fact that pre-owned is more sustainable than buying new. That’s good news, because the fashion industry is responsible for 10 percent of the world’s harmful carbon emissions. Buying second-hand drastically reduces water usage, C02 emissions, and millions of pounds of waste every year. So buy second-hand and shop guilt-free!
Chewable toothpaste
For the most sustainable dental hygiene routine, ditch the tube because toothpaste tablets are in and they’re better for the planet. Often made with natural ingredients and packaged in reusable or compostable materials, chewable tablets are a more eco-friendly alternative to paste in petroleum-based tubes that are often difficult to recycle. So bite down on a new type of natural toothpaste and polish those pearly whites sustainably.
Gym-less home gym
New digital workout options take up minimal space—often no more than your favorite full-length mirror—and offer a plethora of workout options. From group cardio sessions courtesy of built-in cameras and screens to magnets and electricity that simulate weights, you can get the workout you want without stacks of specialty equipment in your living room. And since exercise has been proven to benefit everything from heart health to depression, this trend couldn’t be better for you.
Telemedicine
The worldwide pandemic boosted the popularity of telemedicine and now plenty of natural healthcare and therapy providers are available by phone, video chat, or text. That means you can schedule mental health counseling, participate in online wellness courses, even locate a holistic health practitioner near you, all from the comfort of your home. And studies show that whether it’s physical or mental health you’re searching for, telemedicine produces promising results.
