today’s tip

buy nothing groups

Imagine finding exactly what you need—no money required—and connecting with neighbors in the process. That’s the magic of Buy Nothing Facebook groups! Buy Nothing is a global organization with hundreds of Facebook groups, each dedicated to a specific neighborhood. The mission? To build community and keep usable items out of landfills.

The beauty of Buy Nothing groups:

• Environmental Impact: By rehoming items instead of buying new, you’re reducing waste and conserving resources. Every item kept out of a landfill makes a difference.

• Budget-Friendly: Everything is free! From furniture to kitchen supplies to kids’ toys, you can find great quality items without spending a penny.

•  Building Community: Giving and receiving in your own neighborhood brings people together. Many people make new friends and feel more connected to where they live.

• Beyond Just Stuff: Need help with gardening, an extra pair of hands to move furniture, or advice on fixing a leaky faucet? Buy Nothing groups encourage sharing skills and support too!

How to Join and Use a Buy Nothing group:

1. Joining: Search “Buy Nothing [Your Neighborhood]” on Facebook and request to join. Membership is limited to locals to keep it community-focused.

2. Posting: If you need something specific, post a request. For example, you could say, “ISO cat supplies” ISO = In Search Of. If you have items you no longer need, post an offer (with images!). Items range from clothes and books to houseplants and furniture, and everything in between.

Joining a Buy Nothing group is a simple yet powerful way to embrace sustainability, declutter, and feel part of a caring community. Next time you’re about to toss or buy something, check out your local Buy Nothing group first. You might find exactly what you need! 🤝 

spotlight topic

quick, outdoor workouts for your busy schedule

Getting active outside doesn’t require a gym membership or fancy equipment. With a little creativity, you can get a great workout in nature, even on a busy schedule. Here are a few simple, effective outdoor exercises that you can do anytime, anywhere:

So what's the right choice? Here are five great options:

1. Stair Run or Walk: Find a flight of stairs (at a park or trail) and sprint up or walk up, then walk down. Repeat. This is great for cardio and leg strength.

2. Circuit: Pick 4 moves like burpees, mountain climbers, high knees, and air squats. Perform each move for 30 seconds, rest, then repeat the circuit 5 times through. Other options could be sit-ups, jumping rope, jumping jacks, or planking.

3. Bodyweight Strength: Try 15 reps each of squats, lunges, and push-ups in an open space. Repeat for 3 rounds for a complete workout.

4. Yoga Flow: Find a grassy area and do a few sun salutations or standing poses for flexibility, balance, and relaxation.

5. Walk: Just walk! Get out and take a 30 minute walk. Listen to your favorite podcast, or just listen to the sounds of nature.

All of these workouts can be modified! Pick a variation that works for you.

Outdoor workouts are easy, adaptable, and refreshing. Next time you’re looking to get moving, skip the gym and take your workout outside. Your mind and body will thank you! 🌞💪

a few words

step away

Walking has become my go-to reset, a simple way to clear my mind when things start feeling overwhelming. If work starts piling up and I need a moment to breathe, I head out for a quick walk. Need to get my heart pumping a bit? I find a hill to climb. Whether it’s a stroll to the coffee shop, a walk to grab lunch, or just a few quiet minutes outside, walking brings a calm energy that no other activity quite matches. I’ve learned that you don’t need a destination or a plan—just get out and walk. Alone or with friends, with a purpose or just for the sake of it. It’s a small reminder that sometimes the simplest things make the biggest difference.