#9 Eat local, organic food

Our ancestors harvested and ate their own home grown food when in season.  Today much of our food is purchased at our local grocer.  Even though the grocery location is local, the food it sells is not.   Nutrients deteriorate quickly once food has been harvested and  food that has been shipped across the country, or world, has lost much of its vital life energy.  For optimal taste and nutrition content, food should ideally be consumed within a few hours of being harvested.  Our western winter climate does not allow for this luxury for several months a year.  One way to address this is to choose organic or pesticide-free food that is in season. In addition, there are local companies that deliver organic produce right to your door.  I belong to the Organic Box.  Weekly home deliveries of organic, pesticide-free food have minimized the potential long-term harmful effects of pesticides on store bought produce.  As a bonus,   I have found that I spend less money now than when I shopped at our local grocery.  My impulse buying is all but eliminated and I am sure that what I am serving to my family is healthy and chalk full of nutrients!