Sustainability is something I’ve always strived for. And when we bought our house in December, I made it a priority to make as many sustainable decisions as possible (sorry paper towels, I’ll miss you.).
But as a 20-something year old with student loans and a mortgage, the idea of switching out all of my appliances, makeup, perfume, cleaning products, clothing (the list truly never ends) with sustainable alternatives not only sounds expensive, it sounds nearly impossible.
If you’re like me, being sustainable sounds like a LOT of decisions to make, a lot of comparison shopping, and ultimately a lot of pressure.
So, instead of trying to swap everything out at once, I decided to take a step-by-step approach; where when something new needed to be purchased, I’d look at it through a new lens. And I found out that it’s actually a lot easier than I thought it’d be.
Here are 8 swaps I’ve made in the last 9 months to help make my home more sustainable.
According to the EPA, paper makes up the largest share of municipal waste in the US. And because paper towels aren’t usually recyclable, the use of paper towels is merely for the convenience of not having to wash a rag. When I realized that, it was pretty easy to make the switch over to reusable washrags for everyday use.
Luckily, I’m married to an Italian man who wears a lot of white tank tops. Instead of using paper towels, we turn old t-shirts and worn out sheets into reusable rags that we can wash as we need.
This was one of those swaps that I thought was going to be absolutely impossible to get my husband on board with. But in reality, it’s really simple and saves you a good amount of money and guilt in the long run.
Most people would say DIY instead of buying new, but let’s be honest—who has time for that. In today’s world of Facebook Marketplace and Savers and City Thrift, you can find just about anything you might need secondhand and for a fraction of the price.
We are expecting our first child on Christmas Eve and I prompted my family to buy as many of the gifts as possible (and within reason) secondhand to help the planet and their wallet.
The best part about thrift shopping is that you never know what you’re going to find, so it feels like a treasure hunt every single time!
This fits into the above swap, but deserves its own line because fast fashion is absolutely terrible for the environment. Not only does textile production contribute more to climate change than flying and shipping combined, it also feeds into a system of overconsumption and underpaying workers.
If you’re not into thrifting your next favorite item of clothing, consider buying locally or from an environmentally conscious fashion company. The more we think about our purchases as long-term investments instead of short-term ones, the more we can make a difference in our consumption and environment.
I put off buying curtains for one reason: I had no idea how to hang them. But after realizing just how much my windows and sliding glass doors let in heat or cool air, I knew I needed a solution.
Curtains can help insulate your building and save tons of money on energy costs. In fact, some manufacturers say that blackout curtains can save as much as 25% in thermal costs. Plus, they’re a great way to frame as pace and make it feel more homey
One of my early baby shower gifts was a bidet. This was something I had wanted for awhile but kept putting off because, well, it felt weird and too new of an idea. But once it arrived, I realized just how life changing it is.
Not only will you save money on toilet paper, but they’re also more hygienic and environmentally friendly as well. If you’ve been on the fence about making this purchase, I encourage you just to try. If you hate it, toilet paper will always be there for you.
Many cleaning products are packed with chemicals and toxins. While they’re relatively safe for indoor use, there are some options that provide a more natural approach to cleaning without the harsh additives.
Finding swaps that work for you is a great way to bring more eco-friendly products into your home. Start small, with one or two products, until you find your favorite brand or style. Just remember, being marketed as “natural” doesn’t always mean that they only contain natural ingredients—look for third-party certifications or do some research before you head out to see what really fits into what you’re looking for.
As someone who is about to have 5 baby showers, let me tell ya—no one understands why I’m asking them not to wrap their gifts. “But baby bags are so cute!” they say. Which, they’re not wrong about. But in reality, these bags either end up in the trash or in an endless pit in my basement of old bags that I’ll likely never reuse.
Consider putting your gifts in something, like a basket or a scarf (in Japanese, this style is called Furoshiki), that the receiver can utilize. If the gift is for a baby or wedding shower, you’re likely buying them something off their registry anyway so the gift shouldn’t come as much of a surprise.
The process of raising livestock generates the same amount of greenhouse gas emissions as all vehicles combined. In our house, we’ve tried to instill meatless mondays as part of our weekly eating routine. While it doesn’t always work out, the intention is there. And not only does it save us a bit in groceries, it also helps us be more creative in the kitchen!
I know all of these at once seems like a lot of swaps to make. Don’t get overwhelmed, take it one grocery trip at a time. Maybe your first trip you focus on a veggie-forward meal plan. Next week, you can start to “forget” to buy paper towels. Eventually, you’ll form new and more sustainable habits that will start to feel more natural and just a normal part of your everyday process.
have you made any swaps in your routine in an effort to be more sustainable? We would love to hear about them in the comments!
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Stephie's earliest memories of yoga are of standing in shoulder stand with her mom and the Jane Fonda vinyl playing in the background. Stephie's first "official" yoga class did not come until the late '90's when working for a touring children's theatre company. She fell in love all over again. Wanting to share that love, Stephie's journey led her to the east coast and Kripalu center for yoga and health. There, she has completed both 200 and 500 hour teacher training programs and has been given the honor of being named an acharya (teacher of wisdom). She continues to study in the Kripalu and Pranakriya tradition with master-level teacher Yoganand Michael Carroll. Stephie's classes combine her love of fluid movement (vinyasa) and breath work (pranayama) to create a meditation in motion - allowing for inquiry and exploration of one's true self.
“Seek truth, not peace.” -Yoganand Michael Carroll
"The wise proclaim that love is the only path, love is the only God, and love is the only scripture. I am in fact a pilgrim on the path of love.” -Swami Kripalu
Hi, I'm Gaby and a Des Moines native! Since I was young, I was involved in competitive dance and cheerleading. Throughout undergrad and grad school I bounced around to different gyms and workout formats trying to stay active. In the beginning of 2020 I hit a workout plateau and decided to give Power Life a try.. and I'm so glad I did! I was instantly hooked on the fun, sweaty workouts along with the inviting community! You can expect lots of energy, awesome beats, and a challenging workout with me! Outside of Power Life you can find me cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes or New Orleans Saints, enjoying the sunshine, or sipping a margarita!
After one month of crushing a 20 for 30 challenge, Katie was hooked on Power Sculpt. The unique challenge, killer cardio and motivation that she gets from every class keeps her coming back. Outside of work and practicing over the lunch hour, Katie enjoys Iowa Hawkeye games, spending time with her family and dog Norah, and biking the beautiful trails that this wonderful state provides.
I started teaching at Power Life KC in 2015, and haven’t looked back. I am so happy and excited to be in Des Moines teaching! My name is Rachel, and I love bringing an empowering class to my students every time they come to their mats. I cannot wait to see y’all on your mats!
As a former dancer, Jess has always been passionate about staying active. After her freshman year in college she decided to try Power Life as a way to stay in shape. She was immediately hooked! She loves the workouts and community Power Life has to offer. She can't wait to share her passion and practice with you!
I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance at the University of Iowa, a minor in Health Promotion and a 200 hour yoga certification in Hatha yoga. After spending a few years dancing professionally in Colorado, I moved to Omaha to be closer to family. Additionally, I have been working as a massage therapist since 2016. My favorite hobby is to take fitness classes and spend time outside playing with my two dogs, Rufus and Rylee. I love teaching students new ways to be active, so I can't wait to challenge you in my class!
Ally discovered Power Life in Kansas City. It was her first yoga experience and she immediately was hooked from the high energy and challenging workout. Outside of the studio, you can find Ally teaching third grade. In her free time, she enjoys running, reading, and playing with her two dogs. She has upbeat music and wants her students to leave feeling challenged on and off the mat.
Hiya, my name is Renae! I enjoy being outside (hiking, biking, camping, paddle-boarding, etc.) music, adventuring & spending time with my partner & our people. I love that Power Life creates a safe, inclusive, welcoming space and encourages community. I cant wait to sculpt or flow with ya!
I began my yoga journey in 2018 at Tulivesi in Marquette, MI, while receiving my Bachelor's in Psychology. Since May of 2021, I began teaching at Power Life as a 200 Hr RYT. Yoga is a humble-some melting pot for me - uniting mind, body, and spirit - while also connecting me to new friends and opportunities. Off the mat you can find me digging into the metaphysical side of life with a pocket full of crystals, essential oils, and maybe even a Tarot deck.. or 2! In the studio, I offer a space of freedom to be as YOU are to ground, explore, and grow. Come get your flow on with me in a mind-opening and soul-warming class.
I started my yoga journey during the off season for college basketball. It gave me a sense of balance and ignited a passion to continue the practice. When I moved from Denver to Omaha I knew it was time to make the jump to become an instructor. Since then yoga has been my outlet. I could not be more excited to share this passion with fellow yogis both on and off the mat!
Brianna recently graduated from college with her degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science. Bri loves spending her extra time running, baking, adventuring and Brunching all over KC. She recently fell in love with Power Life and thought what better way to connect with and energize as many people as she can than by teaching Power Barre classes. Brianna strives to create a Fun, Fit, Fabulous atmosphere through her classes, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
Hi friends! I'm Emily- I'm a yoga/fitness enthusiast, foodie, and an avid reader. I love teaching yoga because it combines so many of the things I love- movement, connections, and people. My favorite things to include in a class are great music, high energy, and the chance to listen to/honor your body. I can't wait to practice with you!
YOU are why I show up onto my mat to teach! First yoga experience, years in, whether I know you or meeting you – you mean something to me, and I appreciate you for making it onto your mat. I hope you’ll experience an energetic challenge (not a scary challenge), one that is safe, fiery, loving and keeps you realizing YOU do hard things! Together we’ll experience multiple options for your body to experience based off what your body needs that practice. Laughs? We’ll absolutely get that in too! I started my practice at Power Life to make friends and find a community - years later my want hasn’t changed, but now I hope you’re a part of it. Come sweat with me in; Power 2’s, Sculpt, Barre or FIT classes.
My yoga practice began in 2017. I was diagnosed with scoliosis and a doctor recommended yoga to help with my pain. I soon realized along with the physical benefits I was also obtaining mental and spiritual benefits as well! I have a natural love for learning and teaching on and off my mat. Off my mat I received my Bachelors in Elementary Education from UMKC and my masters in Teaching English as a Second Language. On my mat I’m certified to teach Power and Hot Yoga. Come take one of my classes for growth mentally and physically and leave with a sense of belonging, empowerment, and peace.
Amy Morrison, E-RYT 500, has been teaching yoga since 2013. She did her first Power Vinyasa teacher training in Costa Rica just to learn something new and ended up falling in love with the practice. Since then, she has done multiple trainings with world-renowned teachers specializing in Vinyasa and meditation. She is a teacher’s teacher as she currently runs the 200-hr teacher training at Power Life. Her classes incorporate intelligent and invigorating sequencing, good music, and calming energy. Amy hopes to help students let go of stress and tension, while building strength and flexibility. Join her for a fun and liberating class!
On a personal note... Amy loves to travel! She is a kid at heart and loves spending most of her free time playing with her two boys, ages 1 and 5. She loves to create new things whether that be working on her clothing line or converting her sprinter van into a tiny home. She loves exploring new places with her family and dog, Frankie, reading books, going to concerts, and painting. Oh, and she loves pizza...
After graduating from Iowa State University, I needed a change in scenery and decided to make the move to Des Moines. Being a part of the Iowa State Track and Field team and being involved in multiple sports my whole life, I was searching for something new and challenging. After a few months of taking classes at Power Life Yoga I was hooked! I fell in love with the intensity Power Sculpt classes bring by incorporating weights into yoga and the encouraging community we are surrounded with. When I'm not at the studio you can find me cooking, biking, or hanging out on the nearest patio with a glass of wine, surrounded by family and friends!
I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2017 and moved to the Des Moines area. I have always loved being active, so I decided to give Power Life a try and fell in love! I love to help others achieve their goals and bring a positive vibe.
Kelli began practicing yoga in her home with an app on her iPad. She wanted more out of her yoga practice, so with encouragement from her husband, tried PLY in 2015. She was immediately hooked by PLY’s positivity, community, and atmosphere. She discovered yoga’s physical and mental benefits. Kelli completed her 200 hour teacher training in 2018. She was inspired to share yoga’s ability to heal and grow physically and mentally with others. Off her mat Kelli is a high school math teacher and coach. She loves spending time with her husband, daughter, and miniature goldendoodle Orly. Going on walks and enjoying summer nights on the deck with a glass of wine are her favorite activities.
Summer had been dedicated to a treadmill-hopping, DVD-led, self-motivated workout routine for years. Not only was it boring, but after having a few babies, it seemed impossible. That’s when she found PLY and it was exactly what she had been looking for-- a versatile practice that is as much about mental and emotional health as it is physical. And while the physical work IS amazing, it’s the community of people that have inspired her to practice and teach.
Off her mat, Summer is a wife, mom, graphic designer, organization junkie, clean freak, knit and crochet enthusiast, and Christmas fanatic.
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Kirk was working 80-hour weeks and wearing his shoulders as earrings when he found yoga in 2005. Forever the competitive athlete, he loved the physicality of yoga. When the spiritual and philosophical side of yoga were exposed to him, Kirk was hooked. Yoga provided him with what other activities couldn’t -- the ability to foster the benefits of practice both on and off of the mat. Yoga was something that Kirk could bring into all aspects of his life.
Kirk knows that yoga can be intimidating, so he crafts a class that is playful and inviting, while still being challenging and safe. His creatively planned classes build strength and flexibility in your body and mind while establishing clarity, giving you more confidence to overcome obstacles in your life, and keeping you injury-free. His classes are themed with a message that is relatable and will inspire you to take it with you off your mat. Kirk has been teaching yoga since 2008 and lead his first teacher training in 2012. Where Kirk truly shines is in coaching, developing and bringing out the best in others.
Kirk enjoys traveling (40+ countries to date!), snowboarding, and cherishes time with his wife and two daughters.
Christen Bakken’s yoga journey began in 1998 in a Bikram studio that provided a safe and secure place to practice. She saw the yoga mat as a place to remember her purpose and a place to play. As she continued her studies and began her journey to teaching in 2006, Christen infused yoga classes with devotion and the yoga mat became a place of personal transformation and healing. Her classes are filled with laughter, song, sweat, and usually heart openers. In 2013, Christen began training yoga teachers. This is the place where she finds the most joy - in community with folks looking to grow and be of greater service in their homes, on their mats, and in the world. Over the years, she has led trainings in Denver, the Midwest, Florida, and now abroad. She has trained in continuing education modules, 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour programs. Beyond the mat, Christen is a passionate adventure seeker - she loves to bike, snowboard, and spend time with her husband and pups. She sees each day as a blessing and hopes to remind all who interact with her of this truth.