With such a busy lifestyle, more Americans have started returning to a simpler life practices. Modern homesteading has taken over in cities and rural areas, becoming a mindful movement.
People have taken on sustainable life skills and practices out of concern for the health of our planet, our economic state, and the rising number of emergencies and disasters in our country. According to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) research, more disasters have been declared in recent years than 50 years ago. The disasters include earthquakes, flooding, hurricanes, wildfire, explosions and radiation leaks.
A solution for this growing problem is homesteading.
One source refers to modern homesteading as a movement where people strive for “self-sufficiency, lowered expenses, and reduced environmental impact.” Through homesteading activities people strengthen their relationships with family and neighbors. With all the extra activities, homesteading can boost your health. You can save on expenses (on food, water, and energy bills). And when faced with emergencies or hard times you will be better prepared.
There is a range of homesteading practices that you can participate in. For people who live in their own home and have a decent amount of land, popular sustainable skills can be incorporated on a larger scale. Some have considered raising animals (like chickens for eggs), growing their edible garden, using solar panels to reduce their dependence on energy, using a clothes line to dry their clothes, and creating a harvest watering system for the yard.
Homesteading isn’t just for homeowners or people who live on large amounts of land. For city dwellers, homesteading practices are the same just on a smaller scale. For instance, mini greenhouses and window boxes are a great apartment alternative to a full size garden. Since solar panels are harder to install, consider energy efficient appliances instead. Using alternative travel options (biking, walking, and public transportation) reduces carbon footprints and is common among city homesteaders.
Are you considering implementing homesteading practices into your life? All you need are baby steps. Learning skills like food preservation and soap making are a fun start. Want to learn more? Homestead classes and workshops can be found in cities like Los Angeles and Atlanta.