Lifestyles and Recreation

Every one of us possesses a great amount of power and responsibility to take care of ourselves and the environment through how we live each day. Living a healthy and sustainable lifestyle means being conscious of the decisions we make in all that we do—from the kinds of products we buy to how we balance our lives or how we get away.These choices open us up to the beauty of the natural world, providing a connection that is rewarding and life-giving. Take some time to think about what green strides you could take to help you keep on your sustainable living path.

The Living Green Expo showcases examples of sustainable living and playing. Be good to yourself and the planet.

Sustainable lifestyles and recreation

Lifestyles: Five things you can do

1. Take back your time. Slow the pace of life for you and your family by savoring fewer activities more deeply and learning to say no to things that cause undue stress.
2. Simplify. Trade distractions, clutter, and material things for quiet and more meaningful experiences.
3. Connect with your community. Enhance your relationships with family, friends, neighbors and your community—have intimate gatherings or help to revitalize your local culture.
4. Create balance. Take steps like meditation, exercise and planning to keep a healthy balance with your health, relationships, finances, etc.
5. Share the vision. Involve those around you in living in more ecologically harmonious ways.

Recreation: Five things you can do

1. Explore locally. Support the regional economy and explore all the great hideaways and natural destinations right near your home—parks, trails, waterways, lakes.
2. Use alternative transportation. Opt for non-motorized or alternative ways to get to your travel destination—bike, walk/hike, bus, train, carpooling.
3. Learn or volunteer. Take an outdoor course to help you become more proficient at low-impact recreation or sign up for a volunteer vacation to introduce you to new cultures.
4. Exercise. Make general fitness an important part of your family's daily life for your health.
5. Be in nature. Take time each day to breathe in fresh air and absorb the natural world—go for a walk, bike to work, meditate outside or do yard work.

More Lifestyles & Recreation Resources

• Do It Green is a comprehensive guide to green and sustainable living in Minnesota.
• The Center for a New American Dream offers ideas to help you to live consciously, simplify, and buy wisely.
• Check out the Metro Independent Business Alliance to find local businesses to support in your area.
• The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources lists state parks to explore.
• Green Routes can help you find green and local activities, food, lodging and more throughout Minnesota!