You don’t need to be neither a vegan, nor a climate change activist, to be a true eco-friend. To live a genuin green lifestyle, simply embrace indigenous values to be in relation to the land. To be part of the eco-system and have care in mind, for all your decisions. This can look like:

Green care for your body: Use skincare, haircare and facial care products that are organic at least, and preferably with only biological content (ie no parabens and un-necessary lather agents). It also means to eat organic food when possible, (ie without pesticides and chemical fertilizers), drink clean water and exercise in moderation, as well as taking walks in nature. Dress in natural fibers, and see if there are organic options when you buy clothes.

Green care for your home: Use detergents and cleaning products that aren’t harmful for the environment. Use less plastic ware and more glass, reuse when possible, recycle bottles and lessen waste (ie donate to flea markets and the Salvation Army, if not possible to sell through vintage stores or e-bay). Find balance in how much you have and how you decorate, for example through Feng Shui. And buy your energy from a company that uses wind, water or solar.

Green care for your work: Whether it’s buying eco-friendly paper to your printer, or making decisions about manufacturing, distribution and customer care, have the environment in mind. What is good for the environment can never be unhealthy or bad for anyone. Commute rather than drive, and if possible, drive together with others to lessen traffic.

Green care for your mind: Practice mindfulness and meditation to make space for good decisions and peace of mind. Wellness practices like qigong can help you focus and become more aware of your body, your emotional state and your needs. Study and read up on what sustainability and organic means, so you can make informed choices. Look at the list of ingredients.

Green care for your heart: Make your relationships green. When you go out to lunch or for a cup of coffee, see if you can choose restaurants and other establishments, that have an eco-friendly policy, such as bring your own cup, bottle or thermos. Delve into topics that relate to creating green solutions together.

Green care for your spirit: Remember that we all share breath and that we are part of nature. That this aliveness, is a foundation to feel one with and awe for. We are not separate from nature, we are made of water just like the oceans. Let nature inspire you and see how much around you in society, is inspired by nature. Celebrate its beauty and your connection through art, like dancing Hula, Isadora Duncan, West African or the 5 rhythms.

Green care for the earth: Don’t litter outside! Have a look around where you live to see how nature is shifting according to seasons. Where does the sun rise and set? When do the leaves turn red in the fall or when is it season for tsunamis? Are there places you know of that needs protection? Recognize all the animals and enjoy the scenery. This is what you want to keep and to show future generations.

The question we must collectively answer is: How do we choose between locally produced but not organic, and globally produced and organic, but more expensive to ship and through transportation still bad for the environment? Can we make organic, the standard?