We’ve talked a little bit about the importance of recycling and caring for the environment. Things like eating organically and shopping local aren’t just good for the environment, though. They’re good for you and your body! Even things like switching your cleaning supplies to greener methods will help improve your health, as there will be an absence of harsh and harmful chemicals lurking in your home. Here are just a few more ways you can live a healthier and greener life this new year.

Coffee isn’t just for drinking

After you brew your morning cup of joe, what do you do with your coffee grounds? You probably dump them promptly into the trash, like most people do. However, there are other things you could be doing with those coffee grounds! We have two things that we love to do with our leftover coffee grounds. You can use those grounds, and mix them with your favorite hand soap to make a great exfoliant. Another way to use these coffee grounds as an exfoliant, is to mix them with your favorite body wash, and then use them as an exfoliant for your full body in the shower. One unexpected way to use these used coffee grounds, is to scatter them at the base of your evergreen shrubs and trees – it acts as an energizing fertilizer!

Turn down the heater

We know that it’s cold. It’s January, after all. During the winter, your utilities and electric bills tend to skyrocket. Not only is this bad news for your wallet, but it’s also bad news for the environment. Try turning down your thermostat just a few degrees, and compensate by wearing a sweater and the fuzziest socks that you own. Snuggling up under a blanket will save you money as well as help mother nature out a little bit.

Take care of your car

The best way to prevent pollution, is to take alternate methods of transportation to work. Public transportation is a great, environmentally friendly way to get around. If you live close to where you work, walking or riding a bike(once the weather starts to get a little warmer) is another great way to do your part. But when it’s necessary to take your car, make sure you take care of it properly. Checking your tire pressure and refilling your tires with air every month will get you 10% more miles per gallon. Making sure that your car gets tuned up regularly will make it more efficient, and can boost your miles per gallon anywhere from 4%-40%.