Self-care: rituals and habits that promote healthfulness and wellbeing. Self-care can be things like reading, enjoying a cup of tea, or doing a face mask. To be able to show up as your best self in your day-to-day, taking care of yourself cannot be stressed enough.
But anthropogenic climate change is still a huge problem we need to address. Problems stemming from climate change are at our doorstep and without proper action they’re here to stay. Although we need widespread systemic change, individual action is still critical. Personal accountability and mindfulness can go a long way! Honestly though, what are you supposed to do if something that is good for your soul may harm the environment?
Is that a conflict of interest?
A huge part of how I practice self-care is by maintaining a habitual skin care and wellness routine. I indulge in serums, masks, candles, teas, green juices… you get the picture. Although these are ways I show myself love, I still love the environment and don’t want to be exacerbating the overconsumption problem. I got to wondering, do I have to give up the things I love if I care about the environment?
Well, I’d like to think we can be multifaceted people and still stay true to our values. When talking about being zero-waste I like to advocate for not taking the lifestyle so literally. Yes, we need to be mindful of our consumption but it’s also not good to cut out everything you care about. Balance is key when trying to cultivate personal sustainability. So, here are some tips that helped me ease anxiety and keep up with my self-care routine, while still being considerate of the environment.
Choose the right material.
We have a huge problem with plastic. It haunts us, it’s everywhere and doesn’t show any signs of going away. Plastic pollution is insurmountable and is only getting worse. It never fully breaks down, every piece of plastic ever made still exists. We must be mindful of this issue and make choices to reduce our plastic waste. So, choosing the right material is an easy way to make self-care sustainable.
If part of your self-care routine has plastic, then try to find plastic-free alternatives. Using products with alternative packaging like glass or cardboard is such a game changer. You can still use the products you like without contributing to the plastic problem. More brands are creating alternatives so it’s never been easier to find more sustainable options! You’d be surprised by how many awesome products don’t come in plastic.
Don’t reach for single-use products.
Our overconsumption of resources is also a major red flag. We are using our resources without regard and creating tons of waste as a result. Finding ways to stretch the lifespan of the things you buy and not buying things that inherently have a short lifespan are logical steps in reducing overconsumption. So, single-use products have got to go.
Single-use products are the very definition of unsustainable. So, to be more sustainable, look for products that are designed for many uses. Instead of makeup wipes invest in a makeup remover cloth or a cleansing balm or oil. Instead of using disposable cotton rounds reach for reusable ones. Aim to lessen overconsumption problems by choosing alternatives meant to last. Or, you can buy refillable containers or support brands that offer refill services. Saying no to single-use products is another great way to make self-care sustainable. Plus, your wallet will thank you too!
Shop local.
The emissions created from the shipping sector is also a huge problem. Global shipping is responsible for a good portion of greenhouse gas emissions. A good way to cut down on shipping emissions? Buy things made near you.
The best way to lower your contribution to shipping emissions is to support local businesses. Shopping locally lowers emissions because the products don’t have a long journey from the factory to your home. Instead of buying that new book you’ve been dying to read online from states away, go to the local library or a community bookstore. Instead of buying the tea that you drink every night before bed online, get it from a store closer to you. Better yet check out what the vendors at your local farmers market have! You’ll lower emissions and help the local economy, a totally amazing way to make self-care sustainable.
Simple tips to make your self-care routine more sustainable:
- Choose the right material.
- Don’t reach for single-use products.
- Shop local.
I hope these tips can help you make self-care sustainable and practical. By putting in some more thought into purchases you can add some slack to our consumption of resources, without being restricting. Making informed choices and doing the best you can is how you can take care of yourself and the planet.