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    Home » Best Of

    34 Clever Hacks to Embrace Simple Living and Get Back to Basics

    Modified: Dec 19, 2024 by Sarita Harbour · Published: Dec 22, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links and Amazon links

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    Life can feel overwhelming, but small changes can make a big difference. If you’re ready to slow down and focus on what matters most, these tips to embrace simple living are a great start. They’re practical, easy to follow, and perfect for anyone looking to cut clutter and live with intention. Whether it’s rethinking daily habits or making better use of resources, these hacks help you create a more grounded and meaningful lifestyle. It’s about making life feel manageable while finding joy in the basics.

    Bushcraft Outdoor Skills and Wilderness Survival

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    Bushcraft Outdoor Skills and Wilderness Survival. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Learning bushcraft skills equips you to handle emergencies, build shelters, and find food in the wilderness. This guide is perfect for anyone looking to embrace simple living by reconnecting with practical, nature-based skills. Whether you’re camping or preparing for unexpected events, these outdoor techniques help you feel ready for anything.
    Read the Article: Bushcraft Outdoor Skills and Wilderness Survival

    How to Start a Fire in a Cold Wood Stove

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    How to Start a Fire in a Cold Wood Stove. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Starting a fire in a cold wood stove can be tricky, but it’s a skill every homesteader should master. This guide walks you through the steps to ensure a warm, efficient burn even in the chilliest conditions. It’s a straightforward way to embrace simple living while keeping your home cozy and self-reliant.
    Read the Article: How to Start a Fire in a Cold Wood Stove

    How to Raise Turkeys

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    How to Raise Turkeys. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Raising turkeys is a rewarding way to produce your own high-quality meat while making your homestead more sustainable. This guide covers everything from choosing the right breed to caring for your flock. A perfect fit for anyone embracing simple living and aiming for a more self-sufficient lifestyle.
    Read the Article: How to Raise Turkeys

    Off-Grid Living for Beginners: A How-To Guide

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    Off-Grid Living for Beginners: A How-To Guide. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Living off the grid can seem overwhelming, but this guide breaks it down step by step to make it manageable for beginners. From setting up solar panels to managing water systems, you’ll learn how to embrace simple living and reduce your reliance on modern utilities. Perfect for anyone seeking independence and a slower pace of life.
    Read the Article: Off-Grid Living for Beginners: A How-To Guide

    Grow Up: Vertical Gardening Tips for Foodies

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    Grow Up: Vertical Gardening Tips for Foodies. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Vertical gardening is a space-saving solution that allows you to grow fresh produce even in tight areas. This guide explains how to set up trellises, hanging baskets, and stacked beds to maximize your yield. It’s a smart way to embrace simple living by growing your own food no matter how limited your space is.
    Read the Article: Grow Up: Vertical Gardening Tips for Foodies

    How to Ferment Vegetables

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    How to Ferment Vegetables. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Fermenting vegetables is an ancient preservation technique that’s both practical and nutritious. This step-by-step guide shows you how to turn fresh produce into tangy, probiotic-rich foods that last for months. Embrace simple living by taking control of your food supply with this hands-on method.
    Read the Article: How to Ferment Vegetables

    Best Homesteading Books for Beginners

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    Best Homesteading Books for Beginners. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Starting your homesteading journey? This list of books covers essential topics like gardening, animal care, and food preservation. Each title offers practical advice and inspiration for embracing simple living, whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skills.
    Read the Article: Best Homesteading Books for Beginners

    How to Smoke Fish

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    How to Smoke Fish. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Smoking fish is a traditional way to preserve food that adds incredible flavor and extends shelf life. This guide explains the tools and techniques you need to do it at home. It’s a fantastic way to embrace simple living by preparing your own meals from start to finish.
    Read the Article: How to Smoke Fish

    Backyard Gardening Basics: What You Should Know

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    Backyard Gardening Basics: What You Should Know. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    A backyard garden is a step toward self-reliance and fresh, homegrown food. This guide breaks down soil prep, planting schedules, and maintenance tips to get you started. Embrace simple living with a garden that nourishes both your table and your sense of accomplishment.
    Read the Article: Backyard Gardening Basics: What You Should Know

    How to Save Tomato Seeds to Plant for Next Year

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    How to Save Tomato Seeds to Plant for Next Year. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Saving tomato seeds is an easy way to ensure a steady supply of your favorite varieties year after year. This guide walks you through harvesting, drying, and storing seeds properly. It’s a small but impactful way to embrace simple living and cut down on gardening costs.
    Read the Article: How to Save Tomato Seeds to Plant for Next Year

    How to Grow Black Beans Indoors

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    How to Grow Black Beans Indoors. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Black beans are a nutritious, versatile crop that you can grow indoors with minimal effort. Learn how to create the right conditions for thriving plants even in small spaces. Embrace simple living by producing protein-rich food year-round, no matter where you live.
    Read the Article: How to Grow Black Beans Indoors

    Pickled Vegetables for Beginners

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    Pickled Vegetables for Beginners. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Pickling is one of the easiest ways to preserve vegetables and enjoy them long after harvest. This beginner-friendly guide covers everything from brining to flavoring for the perfect crunchy snack. Embrace simple living by turning fresh produce into pantry staples you’ll always have on hand.
    Read the Article: Pickled Vegetables for Beginners

    Best Books on Simple Living

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    Best Books on Simple Living. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These books are your go-to resource for simplifying your life, from decluttering to self-reliance. Each one offers practical advice for those looking to embrace simple living without feeling overwhelmed. Perfect for anyone ready to slow down and make meaningful changes.
    Read the Article: Best Books on Simple Living

    Raising Rabbits for Meat 2: Processing & Butchering

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    Raising Rabbits for Meat 2: Processing & Butchering. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Processing and butchering rabbits might seem intimidating, but this guide makes it straightforward and safe. Learn how to handle each step with care while maximizing yield for your homestead. Embrace simple living by taking control of your food supply from start to finish.
    Read the Article: Raising Rabbits for Meat 2: Processing & Butchering

    Raising Quail for Meat & Eggs: 5 Best Breeds

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    Raising Quail for Meat & Eggs: 5 Best Breeds. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Quail are a low-maintenance option for fresh meat and eggs, making them ideal for small spaces or beginners. Discover the best breeds and how to care for them in this comprehensive guide. Embrace simple living by adding these productive birds to your homestead.
    Read the Article: Raising Quail for Meat & Eggs: 5 Best Breeds

    Securing Your Food Supply: 15 Ways to Start

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    Securing Your Food Supply: 15 Ways to Start. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Building a reliable food supply is an essential part of self-sufficient living. This guide offers 15 practical steps to help you store, grow, and preserve food efficiently. Embrace simple living with strategies that ensure your pantry is always well-stocked and ready.
    Read the Article: Securing Your Food Supply: 15 Ways to Start

    How to Grow Sprouts at Home

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    How to Grow Sprouts at Home. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Growing sprouts is an easy, budget-friendly way to add fresh, nutritious greens to your meals. This guide covers everything from selecting seeds to harvesting them in just a few days. Embrace simple living by turning a small kitchen project into a big health benefit.
    Read the Article: How to Grow Sprouts at Home

    Stocking Up: What to Buy in Bulk Right Now

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    Stocking Up: What to Buy in Bulk Right Now. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Bulk buying saves money, reduces trips to the store, and keeps your pantry full of essentials. Learn which items are worth stocking up on and how to store them properly. It’s an easy way to embrace simple living while staying prepared for anything.
    Read the Article: Stocking Up: What to Buy in Bulk Right Now

    How to Save Seeds: A Beginner's Guide to Seed Saving

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    How to Save Seeds: A Beginner's Guide to Seed Saving. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Saving seeds from your garden helps preserve plant varieties and reduces the need to buy new ones each season. This beginner’s guide explains the basics of collecting, cleaning, and storing seeds. Embrace simple living by keeping your garden sustainable and cost-effective.
    Read the Article: How to Save Seeds: A Beginner's Guide to Seed Saving

    How to Grow Food from Scraps

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    How to Grow Food from Scraps. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Don’t toss those kitchen scraps! Regrowing food from leftovers like green onions, celery, and lettuce is both fun and practical. It’s a hands-on way to embrace simple living while cutting down on food waste.
    Read the Article: How to Grow Food from Scraps

    Foraging for Medicinal Plants and Food: 7 Northern Greens

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    Foraging for Medicinal Plants and Food: 7 Northern Greens. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Foraging for wild greens offers a sustainable way to connect with nature while boosting your pantry with nutrient-rich ingredients. This guide highlights seven northern greens that are perfect for salads, teas, and natural remedies. Embrace simple living by learning to find food and medicine right in your backyard.
    Read the Article: Foraging for Medicinal Plants and Food: 7 Northern Greens

    How to Use a Fermenting Crock

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    How to Use a Fermenting Crock. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    A fermenting crock is a handy tool for preserving vegetables and creating probiotic-rich foods like sauerkraut and kimchi. This guide breaks down the process, making it easy to use even for beginners. Embrace simple living by turning fresh produce into long-lasting, flavorful staples.
    Read the Article: How to Use a Fermenting Crock

    15 Best Prepper Pantries and Tips on Stocking Your Own

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    15 Best Prepper Pantries and Tips on Stocking Your Own. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Prepper pantries are a cornerstone of self-reliance, and this guide showcases the best examples while offering practical stocking tips. Learn how to organize and store essentials for both everyday use and emergencies. Embrace simple living by building a pantry that supports your lifestyle.
    Read the Article: 15 Best Prepper Pantries and Tips on Stocking Your Own

    How to Preserve Eggs

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    How to Preserve Eggs. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Preserving eggs ensures you always have a protein-packed staple on hand, even during off-seasons. This guide explores methods like freezing, pickling, and water glassing for long-term storage. Embrace simple living by reducing food waste and extending the shelf life of your eggs.
    Read the Article: How to Preserve Eggs

    How to Can Food: 50 Tips for Beginners

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    How to Can Food: 50 Tips for Beginners. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Canning food at home is an essential skill for creating a reliable food supply while minimizing waste. This guide offers 50 practical tips to ensure safe, effective canning for beginners. Embrace simple living by stocking your shelves with homemade, preservative-free foods.
    Read the Article: How to Can Food: 50 Tips for Beginners

    Homestead Gardening

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    Homestead Gardening. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Homestead gardening combines practicality with self-sufficiency, allowing you to grow fresh produce year-round. This guide covers everything from soil prep to crop rotation for a thriving garden. Embrace simple living with a garden that supports your table and your peace of mind.
    Read the Article: Homestead Gardening

    Foraging Rosehips for Oil, Tea, Syrup, and Jelly

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    Foraging Rosehips for Oil, Tea, Syrup, and Jelly. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Rosehips are a versatile foraged ingredient, perfect for making oil, tea, syrups, and jelly. This guide explains how to harvest and use them effectively. Embrace simple living by turning wild plants into useful and nourishing products for your home.
    Read the Article: Foraging Rosehips for Oil, Tea, Syrup, and Jelly

    Smoking & Dehydrating Game Meat

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    Smoking & Dehydrating Game Meat. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Smoking and dehydrating game meat is a practical way to preserve your harvest while enhancing its flavor. This guide explains the tools and techniques needed to do it right. Embrace simple living by learning time-tested methods for storing food naturally.
    Read the Article: Smoking & Dehydrating Game Meat

    Raising Rabbits for Meat #3: Tips for How to Build a Rabbit Hutch

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    Raising Rabbits for Meat #3: Tips for How to Build a Rabbit Hutch. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Building a rabbit hutch is a key step in raising rabbits successfully, providing them with a safe and comfortable home. This guide walks you through designs, materials, and tips to make it durable and efficient. Embrace simple living by creating a productive system for raising your own meat.
    Read the Article: Raising Rabbits for Meat #3: Tips for How to Build a Rabbit Hutch

    How to Dehydrate Eggs for Long Term Home Storage and Use

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    How to Dehydrate Eggs for Long Term Home Storage and Use. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Dehydrating eggs is a clever way to store them for months without refrigeration. This guide explains the steps to safely dry, store, and rehydrate eggs for future use. Embrace simple living by ensuring your food supply lasts as long as you need it.
    Read the Article: How to Dehydrate Eggs for Long Term Home Storage and Use

    Dehydrating Foods: How to Get Started

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    Dehydrating Foods: How to Get Started. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Dehydrating is an easy way to preserve fruits, vegetables, and even meats while keeping their nutrients intact. This beginner-friendly guide shows you how to get started with the right tools and techniques. Embrace simple living by creating a pantry full of homemade, shelf-stable foods.
    Read the Article: Dehydrating Foods: How to Get Started

    How Much to Plant Per Person: Growing Your Own Food

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    How Much to Plant Per Person: Growing Your Own Food. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Knowing how much to plant per person is key to a successful, waste-free garden. This guide offers practical advice on planning your crops based on your household’s needs. Embrace simple living by growing exactly what you need to feed your family.
    Read the Article: How Much to Plant Per Person: Growing Your Own Food

    Raising Rabbits for Meat #1: How to Raise Rabbits for Meat

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    Raising Rabbits for Meat #1: How to Raise Rabbits for Meat. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Raising rabbits for meat is a sustainable way to add protein to your homestead while keeping costs low. This guide covers everything from choosing breeds to feeding and housing your rabbits. Embrace simple living by producing high-quality food right at home.
    Read the Article: Raising Rabbits for Meat #1: How to Raise Rabbits for Meat

    10 Tips for Using Foods with a Long Shelf Life

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    10 Tips for Using Foods with a Long Shelf Life. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Foods with long shelf lives are essential for building a dependable pantry. This guide shares ten creative ways to use these staples in everyday meals and emergency planning. Embrace simple living by making the most of what you have and reducing food waste.
    Read the Article: 10 Tips for Using Foods with a Long Shelf Life

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    Sarita Harbour.

    I'm Sarita. My family and I lived off the grid for 11 years in Canada's far north. If I did it, you can too.

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