Harvesting Nature for Your Home and Family

As your family grows, all you really want to do is provide a safe, warm and loving environment. However, energy prices are continuously rising, and the cost of living never seems to end. Gas and electricity become expensive in winter, and you may need to make the most of food. Fortunately you can, by harvesting nature for your home and family with modern technology, collecting water and foraging for wild ingredients.

Life from the Sky

The weather cycle is an integral part of Earth’s functioning. Water molecules from the oceans are absorbed into the atmosphere, where they form clouds. When the clouds become too heavy, the water is released as rain over your home. Depending on where you live, this is in abundance or scarce. However, you can always harvest it with rainwater tanks. You can then use this vital source of life as you see fit. Free water for showering and bathing is available from your storage. Just make sure it is processed adequately and safe to use before doing so.

Free Energy

You can’t turn on the TV without seeing a new channel, TV show, or documentary discussing renewable energy issues. Renewable energy is electricity generated by a source that doesn’t require processing or deplete. It is therefore cleaner. Yet energy from the sun and the wind is also cheaper. Apart from the initial cost of installation, renewable energy is essentially free. Technologies for producing electricity, such as photovoltaic cells, are much more efficient nowadays. You can apply for government help with the cost in some countries.

Natural Heating 

Heating your home with natural heat is very geographically restricted. However, if you live in a suitable place, and your government allows it, you can provide a warm home using geothermal energy. Geothermal energy is the cleanest method of heating a home. It isn’t polluted, energy-efficient, cost-effective and low maintenance. But sources of natural heat are required. Such sources include geysers, hot springs and heated volcanic locations. Further installation can be expensive. However, your bills will be reduced by up to 65% per year using this method.

Living in a Barn

It’s fitting that the phrase “born in a barn” refers to keeping a home cold since straw is a viable and natural method of house insulation. This renewable material is excellent at keeping in the heat and is commonly used as insulation in timber-framed homes. The air between the straws acts as an effective insulator since air blocks heat and cold. Additionally, straw is superior to the typical construction insulation materials used, such as fibreglass, mineral wool and cellulose. A typical family home requires around 300 bales of straw for a complete insulation installation.

Nature’s Tasty Treats

Of course, the most natural thing you can provide for your family is food. Nature is full of food, and foraging is an enjoyable experience. Wild mushrooms and garlic can be found in woods, and herbs such as chives, sage and thyme are common worldwide. Based on your location and climate, you may see other more exotic wild herbs like basil. Scrumping (collecting apples) is also a rewarding pastime and, combined with berry picking, will provide you with some of the tastiest treats nature has to offer. Always ensure you are on public land before picking anything.

Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.