Planning a Low-Waste Stay-Cation
Stop Trashing It's February theme is self-care, and sometimes self-care means taking a break from your routine and getting away. With the year we've had, I know I've had some serious cabin fever, and although we can't travel too far just yet, hopefully this post gives you some inspo for a stay-cation! These are ideas you can utilize for a reading week, March break, a long-weekend, or anytime you just need a little something new!
Cook Up Something New!
Whether it's an old favourite, something that reminds you of being on vacation, or a new recipe, cooking something different always helps me get out of my usual routine! This week, I tried my hand at making my own Acai bowl, which helped remind me of my trip to California last year, and brought me right back to the beach (just imagine the snow outside is sand).
If you're looking to try out a new recipe, Ambassador Caroline has an amazing vegan pumpkin scone recipe that'll help you pretend you're away at a relaxing bed and breakfast!
Pamper Yourself!
Self-care is so important, and it comes in many different forms. One of the ways I like to unwind is by setting up a little spa-day for myself. I'll try out a new DIY face mask (like this awesome one from Ambassador Jenn), paint my nails, and make myself some "fancy" fruit water to really get the full spa experience!
Another way to practice self-care is by consuming feel-good media. Times are tough, so give yourself a break from your news feed and head to your local library or used book store for a more sustainable option. Pick out a feel-good book of your choice to give your mind a break, or try out an audio book! I've recently been spending a few minutes before bed listening to this rom-com type book from Beth O'Leary, which helps me relax and chill out!
Get Outside
I'll be honest, there have been many days (and consecutive days) in the past year where I have not left the house once, which gets boring, fast. One way I've found to cope with this is to research areas in my community that I've never explored. Whether it be a park or a hiking trail, getting out into nature always makes me feel better. What better way to add to a stay-cation than to actually get out and explore a new-to-you spot that may only be a few minutes away!
(Safely) Connect with Others
Unfortunately some of us are still unable to connect with all of our friends and family in person. However, there are a number of new ways to feel connected even when we're apart. From Netflix watch parties to online gaming or escape rooms, there are options to switch up the routine FaceTimes or Zoom calls and enjoy each other's company in a new way. Even better, we can make these interactions environmentally-friendly by using Ecosia, an eco-friendly search engine that utilizes their ad revenue to plant trees where they're needed most. All you have to do is search!
Hopefully you gained some inspiration for your next stay-cation from this post, and if you have any new ideas, share them with us on our Instagram! In the meantime, remember to take care of yourselves, and the planet!
Our ambassador Sydney is currently completing university from her bedroom and has been looking for new ways to switch up her routine and mimic that getaway feeling without actually getting away. She's loving all the low-waste self-care inspiration our ambassadors have been sharing this month!