Blend in with Nature

I went jogging the other day and was pleasantly surprised to see shells beneath my feet! Yes, shells were used to make the pathway and I was immediately reminded of the beach on a nice sunny day (even though it was cloudy and I was miles away from any beach).

Sustainable, durable construction materials sourced from nature were used instead of gravel and concrete.

I have just discovered this is all part of the new Rail Water park "Waterspoorpark" along the Amsterdam - Rotterdam Railway, situated in my neighborhood. This park replaces the once dodgy, boring looking bush I use to avoid, giving way to an attractive green park with an accessible path. It offers several benefits including the opportunity to exercise in nature! Way to go Leidschendam-Voorburg Gemeente (Municipality). I look forward to the completion of this park as its design holds so much potential.

Now, If building and construction materials can be sourced from nature, the same principle needs to be applied to several of the products we use daily. I am convinced this would help in paving our way to a truly sustainable future - I refer to this as "blending in with Nature".

DIY with Nature

Can I hear you say you do not make anything? Well, you will be surprised by the amount of things you make or can start making and no, you do not need to be an engineer or own a factory!

Little Farmers

Have you considered a little garden to grow your own vegetables. Every tiny bit of your harvest would contribute to you providing sustainable healthy food, naturally sourced, with no added preservatives. You can grow your plants in pots if you do not have much space for a garden. I understand this limitation as I live in one of the most densely populated countries - The Netherlands.

For those who are more ambitious, you can own/rent a larger piece of land, for example, a volkstuin (common in the Netherlands).

My daughter's adopted tomatoes potted plants

You could also consider going all the way and join the world of Agribusiness, it is fast becoming the most entrepreneurial and sustainable way to utilize the abundant land in many countries, particularly in Africa.

Natural vs. Synthetic hair products

If the happy farmer concept is too much for you, how about making something else you consume almost daily - shampoos and conditioners! DIY hair care products, using safe, naturally sourced ingredients implies less application of synthetic chemicals = healthier hair. You will also be saving the planet, environmentally by reducing the harsh chemicals that end up in the drain with convectional shampoos and conditioners.

The recipe you use for your DIY natural hair products will definitely depend on your hair type and yes, it may require some experimentation to figure out what works best for you but I can confirm, it is worth the effort. Captured above is my DIY Natural home-made shampoo products with good old African Black soap. It takes me about 10mins to make, smells great and does wonders to my hair.