Saving energy and saving money may seem like an imposition on your lifestyle. But eliminating waste and taking good care of things is both smart and stylish. Making your lifestyle environmentally friendly is a simple and refreshing way to live.

Don't buy disposable items. Wear clothes you like for a long time. Turn off lights in empty rooms. Don't leave the water running. Turn off the TV when you are watching it in a daze. Eliminating such small wasteful things will make you feel better.

Think about saving electricity. In Japan, lighting that brightens the whole room is taken for granted. But think of a hotel bar lounge. The whole place is dimly lit, with lights on the counters and tables, creating a relaxed atmosphere. You can create this atmosphere by effectively using indirect lighting. If you are reading a book, it is sufficient to only have the area at hand well-lit. Try turning down the lights to create a relaxing space and spend time without wasting electricity.

In winter, the key to maintaining a comfortable room temperature is how you keep it warm. Covering the windows with thick curtains will keep out the cold air from the windows. And if you choose the right color, you can change the atmosphere of the room. It is also a good idea to use a fan or a circulator in combination with the air conditioner and set the temperature at a moderate level. Having a quality blanket to drape over your lap or shoulders will keep you warm without having to turn up the heat. Its soft texture is also a source of comfort.

It is also fun to escape the car, train, or bus and get around by bicycle. You don't have to deal with traffic jams and congestion, and choosing a road you don't usually take is a bit of an adventure, as you discover stores you didn't know existed or take a pleasant path. You can have as many detours as you want, and getting lost is also fun as you can quickly recover your route on a bicycle.

episode 9
An Environmentally Friendly Lifestyle