Sofia Membreno

Some of the needs that water meets is hydration, health, and nutrition. Some of the benefits that water provides me primarily revolves around my skin health. Since drinking more water I find my skin is a lot more clear and over all more healthy.

The main water source in my region of York Pa is the South Branch Codorus and East Branch Codorus watersheds. I was not aware of this before but I was able to find out by investigating using the web.

The barriers to using reusable bottles and tap water instead of bottled water is convenience and the idea of quality. Bottled water is more accessible in public places such as school and work, making it the easier option. Additionally is is perceived that the quality of bottled water to better compared to tap water, and making it seem like a better alternative. However, I can make this a permeant habit by investing in a reusable water. The idea of being able to purchase a reusable water bottle that fits me in regards to design or color makes me more prone to using it. Also investing in a reusable water bottle allows me to set goals for my daily water intake.

If I find myself in the situation of needing a bag for items but I don't have a reusable one, I often opt for using a cart to carry my items to my car. The carts are already provided and it makes for great transportation of my items. Using a cart is quick and easy and allows me to get extra steps in for the day when I walk the cart back to its designated place. In order to create a successful habit of not using plastic bags I like to maintain my car with at least two reusable bags. By doing so, in the event that I did not plan on needing a bag, I have one just incase. This will allow me to use less plastic bags.

I could incorporate the other "R's" into my lifestyle in many different ways. The first way could be by buying in bulk to reduce packaging waste. As a big family, we tend to by foods for specific family members but by finding a cereal we all like we can buy it in bulk and minimize the waste of packaging. A second way is by repurposing clothes. A a girl who loves fashion and trends I tend to give in and purchase new clothes frequently. However, I am able to sew and use old clothing pieces and give them a new life.

In implementing this challenge, I notices I contribute more to what is around me. It was a bit difficult to choose other activities over screen time, especially when my school work is to be done via my laptop. Growing up with technology present, I found I have built unhealthy habits surrounding my devices. With my spare time, I decided to start reading and spend time with my family and friends. I have always loved to read romance book but have steered away from actively doing it. A few months ago I started reading Twisted Love by: Ana Huang, and I decided to finish it throughout the past few days. I love the idea of taking time away from reality in a different way other than devices and being interested in someone else's story. I will be continuing to make time to read and explore new genres. Additionally, I spent time with family and friends. I felt more involved with the lives of the people around me and I felt that I became happier in doing so. Although I love my family and friends, these past couple of days have made me realize I don't spend enough time with them as I should without the involvement of screens.

After completing this action for a few days, I feel that my mental health has improved. While social media provides many benefits, it also provides me with a false reality when it comes to lifestyles and appearance. Ive noticed I feel a better with myself and the life I live. I have also found that with less social media I tend to compare myself to others less.

In my experience, practicing a work-life balance decreases stress and improves my overall wellbeing. This continues to sustainability because it fosters beneficial long-term habits both in and out of the workplace.

Eating more fruits and vegetables and less meat positively affected me. As I started to implement more fruits and vegetables into my diet, I felt my body was able to process them better than meats and my over all digestive system was improving. The benefits I was receiving, encouraged me to share with others. Some of my close friends decided to join me, and their digestive system also improved. By eating more fruits and vegetables I was also using less energy and water. This minimizes the environmental impacts compared to eating a more meat based diet.

Practicing gratitude keeps me centered and motivated to work for a better world by highlighting the small joys to life. Writing about things that I am grateful for allows me to focus more on the positive rather than negative and motivates me to contribute to making the environment more positive and lively.