"Going green" is often seen as something you do for the environment. Surely, reducing your energy use and sending less waste to the landfill are good for the planet, but did you know that going green can improve your own life, too? Here's a look at four ways you will benefit from living more sustainable:

Your health will improve. 

Going green often means using fewer environmentally toxic chemicals and instead relying on natural cleaning products and cosmetics. Not only is this good for the planet, but it's also good for your health. When you replace toxic cleaning solutions with simple cleaners like vinegar and baking soda, your indoor air quality improves. You may notice fewer respiratory issues and skin reactions. Using natural cosmetic products will likely improve the health of your skin and may even reduce your risk of more serious ailments like cancer.

You'll save money.

Habits like turning off the lights when you leave a room, using only cold water in your washer, and turning down your thermostat in the winter all save energy. Not only does this reduce fossil fuel consumption, but it's good for your wallet. Just think of all the ways you can spend the money you save on energy bills. Waste reduction efforts, such as storing food in glass jars rather than using throw-away plastic bags, often save you money in the long run, too.

You'll learn to become more self-sufficient and creative.

Finding ways to generate less waste and use less energy will force you to think creatively and outside the box. This is a skill you can carry over to other aspects of life, such as your job and your parenting duties. Sometimes the most popular way of doing things is not the best way; this holds true in green living and in life.

You'll feel closer to and more aware of the other animals and plants who share the earth.

As you continue reading and learning about eco-friendly living, you'll learn more about the plights of various plant and animal species. When you start making life changes to benefit them, you'll feel closer and more connected with these other lifeforms. You'll feel a sense of peace and confidence when you spend time in nature.

If you're not sure where to start when it comes to going green, check out our recent post, Going Green: 5 Ways to Start Today.