a simple gift guide: green living essentials

Most of the time, I aim to bring the outside in and make easy, nature-friendly choices to show some love to our planet. This lifestyle also reflects in the majority of products I use at home. That's why I thought the second guide in this series could focus on simple, helpful things that make homes more eco-friendly and organised through thoughtful choices.

From choosing natural cleaning products to buying less and caring for the environment, I like to call the items below “friendly essentials”. I truly believe that making small changes in our daily routine can lead to big improvements, allowing us to enjoy life's simple pleasures.

This guide is focused on simple, useful items that can make life easier without costing a fortune all while promoting a slower, more sustainable lifestyle. I believe that having an organised home lets you focus on what truly matters, avoiding unnecessary stuff that just takes up space and adds no real value. In the end, it's all about having what you need without cluttering up your space with things that serve no purpose and consume less.

Here’s my selection of eco-friendly products, smart organisers, and everyday tools for a more thoughtful way of living.

1. Green Living by Jen Chillingsworth, elefant.ro

2. VITRA toolbox, intro design

3. Multi Surface Cleaner Kit, incl. reusable glass bottle, kinfill

4. Garden Utensils (set of six), ZARA HOME

5. Sophora Prostrata Plant, PLANTROPIC

6. CROLL & DENECKE Dish Washing Brush, MioBio

7. Normann Copenhagen Pocket Organizer 2, intro design

8. Halo Hand Soap Bar, kinfill

9. KUNGSFORS Net Bag (set of two), made from cotton, IKEA

10. Normann Copenhagen Dropit Hooks (set of two), intro design

11. Herb Seed Starting Kit with Plantable Paper & Pot - Basil, Carturesti

12. CROLL & DENECKE Loofah Kitchen Sponge, MioBio

13. Avolt Square 1 socket USB-C, NORDIC NEST

14. BRUNBÄR Plant Pot with Saucer, Outdoor Terracotta, IKEA

15. Borosilicate Glass Self-Watering Bubble, ZARA HOME

16. Dish Soap Refill, kinfill

17. Self-watering Clay Pot for Plants, LUTOYA

18. MARIATHERES Reusable Dish-cloth, IKEA

19. HÖNSNÄT Cable Management Box, made from unbleached moulded paperboard, IKEA

20. VÄXTHUS Handmade Basket (set of two), made from sedge, IKEA

a simple gift guide: peaceful moments at home

I've always enjoyed seeking out the best items for my home and loved ones while considering price, quality, or style. Even during my student days when funds were tight, I cherished discovering and giving gifts with intention, not just objects. There's something magical about seeing our dear ones truly delighted with a gift, don't you think? I believe we're all feeling fulfilled when offering primarily an experience and then a gift. It is such a beautiful experience that I enjoy year after year.

our dining table transformed into my gift wrapping station last year

This year, I'm excited to share this passion of mine for curating simple and thoughtful presents through a set of gift guides. The guides are focused on cozy, simple ideas for a beautiful experience of giving. And what better time to do this than during the winter holidays when we're all searching for that "perfect present".

I hope these guides bring a touch of inspiration to your life and prove helpful. Regardless of the gifts you choose, remember, it's not about finding the "perfect" thing. It's about the time, the connections, and those simple, serene moments spent with our loved ones.

Below, you'll find my first guide featuring gifts around 20-50 EUR, dedicated to creating a peaceful haven with items meant to elevate relaxation and self-care. From soothing scents to comfy loungewear and cozy blankets, find some ideas of gifts that foster calmness in your everyday space. Enjoy and stay tuned for part two of my gift guide in the next days!

1. STILL: The Slow Home by Natalie Walton, Amazon

2. FADO lamp, IKEA

3. Stoneware Cups Set of 2, ARKET

4. Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm, Aesop

5. Fern & Moon Letterpress Printed Box of Matches, JUNE you are the sun

6. Deep Forest Essential Oil Dropper, FRAMA

7. Washed Linen Bathrobe, H&M HOME

8. NOTEM Vita Notebook, Medium - Green Grid, OTOTO

9. Library Artwork, Ganduri de mana

10. Pack of 4 Beeswax Candles, ZARA HOME

11. SKANDINAVISK, HYGGE Scented Candle, OTOTO

12. Flare Stripe Milk Small Candleholder, HAY

13. Poetic Mind Reed Difuser, ZARA HOME

14. Magazine Issue Forty-Six: Interiors Special, KINFOLK

15. Deep Forest Scented Candle, FRAMA

16. Wool-blend blanket, H&M HOME

17. Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser, Aesop

18. Iris Hantverk Body Brush, ZARA HOME

19. Grey Stripes Linen-blend Cushion Cover, H&M HOME

20. Savon de Marseille, olive oil, MioBio

21. Set of 3 Overlock Cotton Towels, ZARA HOME

a minimalist digital life

In a world where screens surround us, finding that perfect balance can be like finding a hidden gem. Over the years, striking the right balance between my digital life and the simple pleasures of existence hasn't always been smooth sailing.

There were moments when the constant allure of screens felt like an irresistible force, pulling me away from the things that truly mattered. At times, I found myself caught in the never-ending scroll of social media or endlessly clicking from one webpage to another. The addictive nature of the digital world made it a struggle to disconnect, even when I knew I should. I'd often find myself working late into the night, glued to my laptop, or endlessly checking emails, blurring the lines between work and personal time.

This constant connectivity left me feeling drained and disconnected from the world outside my screen. Yet, through these challenges, I remained determined to find a way to simplify my digital life. I knew that the key to lasting happiness lays in reconnecting with life's simple joys and setting boundaries. So, my journey toward a more balanced and minimalist digital life began, and along the way I’ve collected the following insights and strategies that are working for me most of the time.

always looking for that equilibrium

Work-Life Boundaries

Firstly, I set specific working hours and stuck to them faithfully. This gave me a clear boundary between work and personal time, allowing me to enjoy my evenings without work-related stress. Plus, I silenced non-essential notifications on my devices, creating a more peaceful digital space that didn't constantly demand my attention.

These small yet intentional changes made a world of difference, helping me regain control over my digital life, reduce screen time, and say goodbye to the stress that often accompanied it. It felt like a refreshing breeze in a screen-filled world.

time planning

Prioritising the Essentials

My journey to a more balanced digital life began by prioritising what truly matters. After a long day of work in front of my laptop, I realised the importance of disconnecting. So, I set aside an hour or two each day for essential tasks like cleaning the house. This simple act not only helps me disconnect from screens but also allows me to return to a serene and tidy home. It's like a fresh canvas waiting for new experiences.

dust, sneeze, repeat

organised, tidy and neat shelves

Embracing Daily Activities

One of my secrets to finding joy in simplicity is dedicating some time during the day to activities that bring me genuine happiness. Whether it's cycling through the neighbourhood, taking leisurely strolls, or diving into the pages of my favourite books, these moments are my daily escapes. They offer a chance to breathe, to be present, and to relish life's simple pleasures. It's during these moments that I find solace and recharge my spirit.

do not underestimate the power of a good read

wild flowers found during the usual evening stroll in my neighbourhood

Weekend Bliss

By tackling daily tasks during the week, I've freed up my weekends for pure enjoyment and appreciating the world around me. This way, I can enjoy a good book and a delicious coffee in a cozy cafe or explore the local markets to pick up fresh veggies for the week ahead. Weekends become a haven for spending quality time with friends and family, exploring nature and its wonders.

a cozy, botanical cafe discovered during my weekend strolls

simply enjoying a good read and a cup of coffee

exploring local markets to pick up fresh veggies

always stopping to buy myself flowers

Gardening Delights

Caring for my plants and tending to my garden has become a therapeutic ritual. Observing the growth of my vegetables, nurturing them with care, and watching them flourish brings a sense of fulfilment like no other.

admiring the growth of my veggies and flowers - pure joy

The Power of Candlelight and a Good Read

Sometimes, all it takes to disconnect is to light a candle, dim the lights, and lose myself in the pages of a beloved book. The gentle flicker of the flame and the scent of a well-chosen candle create a tranquil atmosphere that invites introspection and relaxation.

a moment of calm

Finding Balance, Setting Boundaries

My digital life transformation has taught me that balance is the key. It's not about building walls around screens but about setting boundaries that allow us to fully embrace the simple joys of life. By prioritising, embracing daily activities, and nurturing offline hobbies, I've simplified my digital life, reduced stress, and reconnected with the beauty of the world around me.

For me, finding balance, enjoying the simple things, and living a life where the digital world complements, not overshadows, the beauty of our everyday existence, are some of the most important things. Though it can get a bit tough, I'm working on making this vision a reality by embracing some simple, minimalist ideas.

how I started a square foot garden

Following my early summer visit to Copenhagen, as the warm breeze of summer began to sweep over the city, I found myself eager to connect with nature and bring a burst of life to my surroundings. Inspired by the idea of growing some of my own food and creating a green oasis in the heart of the city, I began the adventure of creating a square foot garden. Despite the late start at the end of June, I was determined to make the most of the season and nurture my very own patch of green paradise.

Planning and Building the Raised Beds

Full of enthusiasm, I began by planning my square foot garden. Firstly, I sketched out the layout for two raised beds that would house my future garden and then carefully I selected a variety of vegetables and herbs to plant, considering the local climate and the short growing season.

a whimsical garden dance on my iPad - embracing the layout imperfections and the charm of a personal touch

Eager to gather the materials necessary to bring our garden to life, I went to the local DIY store together with my partner. Armed with wood, nails, and a few essential tools, we crafted the raised beds that would soon house the selected plants. The satisfaction of building these beds from scratch was immensely rewarding and added a personal touch to my gardening journey.

proudly admiring the raised beds now filled with nourishing soil

Grid Planning and Execution

With the raised beds in place, it was time to explore the heart of square foot gardening: the grid. I determined the available space and divided it into square foot sections, which roughly translated to 30-centimeter squares.

This strategic division allowed me to make the most of my limited space and ensured that each plant had room to flourish without overcrowding. Using a simple string, I marked out the squares, creating a visual guide for planting and maintaining the garden. This step might have seemed tedious, but it was an essential foundation that would soon transform into a symphony of colours and flavours.

making the most of any limited space

Planting Day

The long awaited day arrived, and armed with seeds and seedlings I began to bring life to the carefully marked squares. Each chosen plant had its own unique set of needs and characteristics, but I was eager to learn more about each one and provide them with the necessary care.

Cucumbers, with their sprawling vines, found a cozy home in one corner, while tomatoes reached for the sky nearby. The sturdy and robust eggplants and peppers proudly stood in their designated squares, promising a future harvest of vibrant hues and delectable tastes.

Zucchinis, known for their rapid growth, found their place with ample room to spread their leaves. Nearby, the compact cauliflowers took shape. In another corner, radishes sprouted with enthusiasm, promising a quick reward for my efforts.

The delicate lettuces and hardy carrots shared space harmoniously, their differing root depths and growth rates carefully considered during the planning phase. As I gently planted the seedlings, I couldn't help but marvel at the potential that lay before me.

Nurturing and Growth

As the weeks passed, my square foot garden transformed into a lush haven. The care I provided paid off as I witnessed the gradual growth of my plants.

The cucumber vines reached out, grasping the trellis I had provided for support. The peppers and eggplants formed a stunning display of colors, each plant showcasing its unique personality. Zucchinis and cauliflowers flourished, requiring a watchful eye to ensure they didn't encroach on their neighbours. Radishes were the first to grace my plate, their spicy crunch a testament to the rewards of patience. Lettuces and carrots, tended with care, promised future delights as they matured in their designated spaces.

Harvesting Happiness

From the initial grid planning to the joyful act of planting and its growth, my square foot garden journey has been a lesson in patience, adaptability, and the communion of all living things. As I stand among the thriving greenery, I'm reminded that while the late start might have posed a challenge, the rewards of my efforts are seen in the vibrant, flourishing ecosystem I've created. This square foot garden isn't just a collection of plants—it’s a proof of determination, the resilience of nature, and the beauty of watching life unfold in every carefully marked square.