Our pantry shelves and bathroom cupboards are stuffed full of products that make our lives easier, but do you know what they contain? If you’re unsure, you’re not alone. The truth is, many of the everyday products we use contain a vast array of chemicals that aren't just bad for our bodies, and our health, but for the environment too.
Whether it’s the deodorant you apply pre-workout, or that energy drink you grab afterwards, your gym bag is likely stuffed full of them. So today we’re looking at some easy, no-nonsense ways to cut out those ever-present chemicals, making for a healthier you, and a healthier world too. Most surprising of all? It’s easier than you might think!
Those weights you lift are heavy enough without thoughts of the environmental impact of your fitness routine weighing heavy on your mind. So where do we start? Deodorants are first on the list. They may be a great way to keep body odours at bay, but most use harmful chemicals to clog pores and prevent sweating. The solution? Well, it isn’t as extreme as forgoing deodorants altogether. No one wants to be that smelly guy or girl. All it takes is a little ingenuity.
There are countless natural alternatives available, but they’re also expensive. Instead, skip the store shelves and turn to your friend Google and you’ll find a plethora of home recipes that use nothing more than a few simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen!
Better Than Vaseline
While deodorants are great at keeping the smell away, for those with more intense workouts, sweat is an inevitability. And, in turn, chafing. Figure-hugging clothing made from material that allows your skin to breathe is a great start, but go-to pro+ducts like vaseline are a big no-no. Vaseline is an oil-refining byproduct - would you want to rub that on your skin?! - so friendlier home remedies are much preferred.
Next time you go for a run, throw a light dusting of corn or potato starch on troublesome areas, or if your workouts are more intense, there are natural alternatives that not only prevent chafing but also work to heal the skin rather than harm it.
The only thing worse than smelly underarms is that messy pile of shirts and socks stinking up the laundry. Sure, you could run them through the washer, but many cleaning products do their job with harsh chemical ingredients. Ingredients that can cause havoc for those with sensitive skin.
Instead of fancy smelling powder, run your next lot of laundry with a homemade alternative. The likes of Baking Soda can also work wonders to remove marks and stains, while white vinegar can kill off bacteria. Just make sure you don’t run both at once, or your washing machine will turn into an 8th grader’s science experiment!
Smelly Shoes?
Baking soda comes to the rescue again. After a long day at the gym, fill a few small cloth bags with baking soda and place these in your shoes overnight. Not only will it absorb all that icky moisture but it’ll eliminate the smell too.
Baking soda comes to the rescue again. After a long day at the gym, fill a few small cloth bags with baking soda and place these in your shoes overnight. Not only will it absorb all that icky moisture but it’ll eliminate the smell too.
Herbal Shampoo
Chemical laden cleaning products aren’t just limited to your laundry, either. Have you looked at the ingredients list of your shampoo recently? There are names on there most of us couldn’t even pronounce! Skipping the expensive facial and using natural options like fruit or Orris Root powder is a great start, as is making your own soaps and herbal shampoos. Even better, a lot of these recipes can be customized, so you’re left feeling clean and smelling great for days to come.
Eat Well, Live Well
Eating well is one of the best things you can do for your body. Natural foods and herbs not only help in your journey to a fitter, healthier you, but by avoiding pre-packaged foods, takeaways and unhealthy snacks, you’ll be doing your bit for the environment too.
The next time you’re shopping, avoid the isles you know are full of those tempting snacks. Instead, look for organic fruit and veggies, free-range meats, and avoid pre-packaged foods that will undoubtedly end up in landfill. They may be convenient, but they’re likely full of preservatives or added ingredients used to keep them fresh. Better still, seek out local farmers markets, or maybe even plant a veggie or two of your own. You don’t need a massive backyard, and making use of balcony or windowsill space is an inventive way for those of you in apartments to grow a tomato or two!
Drink Water!
Drink Water!
And when exercise is over and you’re needing refreshment? Put that Red Bull down and reach for the tap instead. Water is the most natural option - you don’t need any of that bottled stuff! If it’s the taste that’s putting you off, throw together a homemade energy drink using those fantastic fruits and vegetables you picked up earlier, or flavour your water with a bit of lemon or lime.
You don’t have to tackle all these changes at once. Start with one and give it a go, work your way up to the others, and before know it you’ll be feeling that much better about yourself and the world you live in.
About The Author: Robert is Blogger and he's very passionate about Sports, Nutrition and Wellbeing. You can follow him on Facebook.com/WeAreGoodSport
About The Author: Robert is Blogger and he's very passionate about Sports, Nutrition and Wellbeing. You can follow him on Facebook.com/WeAreGoodSport
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