SUSTAIN THE MAG

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Prioritizing our health AND the health of the planet

by Kelsey Walsh

It’s no secret that the impact of movement can have a serious effect on not only your physical wellbeing, but your mental and spiritual as well. 

I don’t know about you, but a solid sweat sesh after a day of annoying boss emails, broken air conditioners or the anxiety surrounding a global pandemic usually puts me in a much more stable mental place. So how can we continue to prioritize our health AND the health of our planet?

The rise of ethical and sustainably made workout attire has skyrocketed over the last few years. Whether you like to hike, run marathons, get your yoga on or walk your doggo in style, there’s something available for everyone.

Vuori

Ok real talk their leggings feel like actual butter on your legs. SOFTEST OUT THERE I SWEAR. Vuori focuses on working with sustainable materials, reducing waste and offsetting 100% of their carbon footprint. They enforce strict ethical practices as well to keep their staff safe and healthy.

I don’t know about you, but comfort is an absolute priority for me. Long travel day? Look into their Daily Legging and be sure to get your steps up at some point during the day!

Nube

This women-run company manufactures all of their products in the US out of recycled materials. Your order comes in zero-waste packaging and all of their designs are made by artisans inspired to help protect Mama Earth.  

Who enjoys a nice happy hour with friends after a spin class? Uh, me! Grab one of their ArtifactSets to make a serious impression after a stellar workout.

Image Source by @nubeusa

Pact

These guys are on a mission to make “organic” affordable. With an emphasis on simplicity, Pact is vowing to make sustainably made clothing available for EVERYONE. With a full home and children’s line Pact is a great tool to use if you have a family, are just starting your eco-friendly transition or if you just like soft peachy-like clothing! Their Modern Racerback Bra is FAB for dog walks, beach volleyball and putt- putt golf with the kiddos. So. Cozy.

Girlfriend

Each pair of leggings is made from 25 recycled post-consumer water bottles and each bra is made from 11! This line carries just about any color set your heart desires AND continues to be extremely transparent with their ethical and environmental practices. This inclusive line welcomes women of all shapes, sizes and walks of life. Walk, run, jog in one of the Float Sets for an easy breezy workout.

Image Source by @girlfriend

Outdoor Voices

Between their waste free check-out process (in store) and their high quality made rec-wear, you can’t go wrong with this fun line of goodies. OV uses materials like Recycled Polyester, and sustainably sourced merino wool. They have fair wages and benefits for all employees and encourage their followers to get out and get moving in their day to day. Need a set to keep up with your super sweaty hot yoga classes? Check out their lightweight TechSweat line for a restriction free experience. Use my code “KWALSHDOER” for 20% off your first purchase!

Prana

Their tag line “Clothing for positive change” could not be more accurate. This fair-trade certified company uses organic cotton and recycled wool to help make a difference for our planet. They are also a part of the “bluesign” initiative that helps keep harmful chemicals out of our oceans and skies. Throw on one of their Cozy Up T-shirts for a lazy Sunday or a vigorous hike. Their products are so versatile!

Image Source by @prana

Toad & Co

This company is for all my outdoor adventurers out there. Partnered up with some of the top environmental organizations such as: Yosemite Facelift, The Conservation Alliance and the Environmental Defense Center this company is creating prime eco-products while continuing to encourage the world to clean-up after themselves. Roadtrip to a national park? Longboarding with your buddies? Give their breathable and durable Boundless Shorts a try.

While waste reduction may seem overwhelming, there really are so many amazing resources out there these days to help guide you through your eco-journey (LIKE SUSTAIN THE MAG. XO). If you’re interested in achievable and affordable ways to become more planet-friendly I’d love for you to join my FREEEEEEE weekly subscription called ECO-LETTER. Each week we break down an individual area of your home or lifestyle to simplify your transition to low waste living.