Permaculture is a term coined by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren that comes from combining the words ‘permanent’ and ‘agriculture’ to create an idea completely new. This permanent agriculture philosophy of design incorporates a vast array of diverse practices. It can be applied to styles of living ranging from large-scale farms to even a one-bedroom apartment.

While the van life can be incredible and rewarding, the prospect is not without its challenges. Before buying your van or planning your trip, figure out how dedicated to the lifestyle you want to be. Do you want to be a full-fledged van lifer? Always on the road moving from one destination to the next. Or would you rather just use your van as portable lodging to cheapen the cost of a specific trip?

In 1994, Mike and the team launched the Greater World Earthship Community, a plot of 633 acres just past the Rio Grande Gorge outside of Taos, New Mexico. An ideal location, matched with a new design focused on adding comfort to sustainable homes, made Mike’s designs more accessible than ever.

WWOOF stands for Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms. It’s a work exchange that connects volunteers (WWOOFers) with hosts worldwide. Depending on your host, the WWOOFer is expected to work 4-6 hours a day, five days a week, and in exchange, the host provides them housing and food and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience on their organic farm.

Composting is the natural process of breaking down organic material to make soil. Finished compost contains healthy plant nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It will carry many beneficial organisms, such as worms, and fungal mycelium, that help keep the soil prosperous and your plants happy.

The alkaline diet is entirely plant-based and encourages the restriction of refined sugars, processed foods, trans fats, and starches. Regardless of these foods being unable to change the PH of your blood, restricting or cutting out such foods will undoubtedly be a healthy change for your life.