Living intentionally doesn't need to be complicated or challenging-- it can be as simple as shifting a few small things to have a big impact. These habit shifts will help save money, resources, and ultimately, our planet. Worth it, don't you think?

Here are three simple shifts I've made lately to go more green:

Switch to washcloths instead of paper towels.

Yes, I still have a roll of paper towels by the kitchen sink. But, I also now have washcloths at the ready. The key was putting them where I would see them. I clipped one to a magnet on the side of the fridge, right next to the sink. I draped another next to the towel on the oven's handle. Having just the two in plain sight, in different areas of the kitchen, has meant I haven't once needed a paper towel in the last few weeks. I keep the rest at the ready in a stack under the sink, and throw the dirty in the wash every time I do a load, just to keep things fresh and good to go.

Switch to a menstrual cup instead of tampons and/or pads.

I don't know why I didn't do this years ago. I was freaked out by the idea, and quite honestly thought it would be super gross, but it isn't at all. Ladies, this is a change worth making. I promise. I no longer have to worry about changing things out every few hours, don't have to put anything toxic in my body, and I save so much money not having to buy overpriced feminine products constantly. This Dot Cup can stay in for 12 hours at a time, and I don't even notice when it's in. It's a dream and simplifies my life immensely. Also, the Dot Cup has a one-for-one model, so each one you purchase also provides one for a woman in need. Win-win.

Switch to reusable straws instead of single-use plastic straws.

I will never again use a plastic straw. I refuse them at restaurants, and just have kept one of these stainless steel straws in my bag (or gone without). Love both the long and short heights-- perfect for either tall or short glasses. A new favorite is bamboo straws — they don’t get freezing cold on your lips if you’re drinking ice water (like I do) which is a major plus! I also keep a 32 ounce Mason jar at my desk and on my nightstand for water, and use these (and the straws that come with them!) or use one of my reusable straws, and love both options. Bonus about these straws-- they're wide enough that they work great with smoothies, too.