The Naturale Yogi

I am not a fan of shopping. I don’t shop for fun and I don’t understand retail therapy. On my best days I shop for books and even that could stress me out. I grew up trained to buy only what was needed so I am careful with the items that I bring into my home but only recently did I think about all the waste my shopping has created. I’ve learned a couple of things the past two years that I have tried to apply the zero waste principles and I’d like to share them with you.

1. Be prepared with a Shopping List (and be specific with the brand if you can)
   Before going out the door and going to a store you have to always be prepared with a few things. You must have a shopping list, this helps keep you on track and not get distracted by the various marketing strategies in the stores that make you buy things that you don’t really need.
2. Do your research based on the list.
   Now that you have a list you can start searching online for zero waste alternatives for those items. Let’s say your list has brand X shampoo the zero waste alternative is a shampoo bar.
3. Always have a reusable bag or container with you as you would not want to have to get a plastic bag when you do suddenly buy something.
4. Refuse packaging, or buy the one with less.
   No packaging is the best, but if you absolutely need the item choose the one with the least packaging or the most reusable or biodegradable one.
5. Go for reusables. Whenever you have to buy items make sure you choose the best reusable option. Instead of paper napkins try reusing old t shirts or towels for rags to wipe surfaces or your hands when eating! Plastic utensils or bamboo chopsticks are the worst one time use item so opt for reusable ones.
6. Buy in bulk. Buying in a larger amount means that you need less packaging compared to buying the same item it 10 separate tiny containers!
7. Focus on value over quantity. This applies to clothes. It’s always better to have one or two good quality long lasting articles of clothing than ten cheap ones.
8. Take note of things you will need next time. If you see something that you might need next time because you still have the same thing at home then take note of the brand and store you could get it in the zero waste form.
9. Buy digital if possible. This applies to books, manuals, or music.
10. Buy second hand items. I found that books can always be bought second hand. Try asking your family or friends if they have the specific item you need they might have it or know someone who has it. I was able to get my trampoline for free from someone I know and I also bought baking items second hand and they were in great condition, I just sterilized them once I brought them home.

I hope these steps help you be more aware of the shopping experience and help you on your sustainability, minimalist, and zero waste journey. Namaste!