Lifestyle – The Western Howl

March 5, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

In today’s time, where convenience often takes precedence, the need for sustainable living has never been more urgent. With climate change, resource depletion and pollution on the rise, adopting a more sustainable lifestyle is a crucial step in helping protect our planet for future generations. Living sustainably doesn’t require a drastic overhaul of one’s life, small everyday changes can make a significant impact.

Embrace minimalism and reduce waste — One of the core principles of sustainable living is minimizing waste. In our consumer-driven society, it’s easy to accumulate items we don’t need, contributing to unnecessary waste. Buying less, choosing quality over quantity and thinking critically about our purchases is of the utmost importance. One should opt for reusable items over single-use products. This could be using a stainless-steel water bottle instead of plastic ones or using reusable bags instead of relying on plastic bags. A little effort can significantly cut down on the waste one produces and can make a big difference in the long run.

Support eco-friendly products and brands — Sustainability extends to the products one buys too. As consumers, we have the power to influence companies by choosing to support those that prioritize the environment. Look for items made from sustainable materials like bamboo, organic cotton or recycled products. This also includes choosing brands that are committed to ethical production practices, reducing their carbon footprint and using eco-friendly packaging. Additionally, buying from local sources, such as farmers markets, can help to reduce the environmental impact by minimizing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.

Energy efficiency at home — One’s home is one of the easiest places to implement sustainability practices. Simple changes can be switching to LED bulbs, unplugging devices when they are not in use and keeping the lights off during the day.

Adopting sustainable eating habits — The food choices we make have a profound effect on the planet. Agriculture, particularly the meat industry, is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation and water pollution. A way to reduce one’s environmental impact is by incorporating more plant-based meals. This doesn’t mean fully becoming vegetarian or vegan, but reducing one’s consumption of meat and dairy can be helpful in living more sustainably. It is also heart healthy. Supporting sustainable farming practices is another way to make one’s food choices more eco-friendly. Look for certifications like organic, fair trade and pasture-raised, which indicate more environmentally responsible practices.

Transportation: walk, bike and carpool — Transportation is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions. With such a small campus, walking or biking whenever possible is better for both the environment and for one’s physical health. When driving is necessary, consider carpooling or using public transit. Reducing the number of vehicles on the road helps cut down on air pollution and reduces traffic congestion.

Sustainable living doesn’t require radical changes, but it does require mindfulness. A willingness to make small adjustments has a collectively large impact. It is important to keep in mind that everyone’s situation is different. Some barriers to living sustainably include cost considerations, convenience, misinformation and time constraints. Any step, no matter how small, has the potential for a huge impact on the planet and the animals that occupy its space. The average person does not produce the majority of pollution and harm the environment, but, unfortunately, the responsibility falls on us.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

The Western Howl

Home » Lifestyle

Daylight saving time

March 5, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Sunday, March 9, 2025, the clocks will “spring forward.” This typically happens on the second Sunday in March, and is practiced to make better use of daylight during the longer days of spring and summer by shifting an hour of daylight from the morning to the evening. This means that the clocks on March 9 will jump to 3 a.m. instead of going through the second hour. Springing forward is paired with “falling back,” which happens in the fall — hence the name. Most might feel groggy and out of sync during this time due to the interruption of the circadian rhythm. The body operates on a natural sleep-wake cycle influenced by light and darkness. This jump in time can cause one’s internal clock to get out of sync. Preparing for springing forward doesn’t have to be difficult. One can ease into the time change with some simple steps.

Gradually adjust sleep schedule — Begin by shifting one’s bedtime and wake-up time 15 minutes earlier each day. Incremental change helps the body to gradually adapt to the new time, so it doesn’t shock one’s system when the clock jumps forward. To make things easier, avoid using phones or other electronic devices before bed, as blue light can interfere with the natural sleep cycle.

Get plenty of sunlight — Exposure to natural light plays a crucial role in regulating one’s internal body clock — circadian rhythm. The more sunlight one gets, the easier it will be for the body to adapt to the time change. As the days get longer, spend some time outdoors in the morning and early afternoon. Morning sunlight resets the circadian rhythm, signaling that it’s time to wake up and be active.

Stay active — Physical activity plays an important role in helping the body adjust to the time change. Exercising in the late afternoon or early evening can help one to feel more awake and energized during the day, while also promoting better sleep at night. A light walk or stretching exercises can make a significant difference in how one feels. Be sure to avoid intense workouts too close to bedtime, as they can interfere with one’s ability to sleep.

Monitor diet — Eating habits can have a surprising effect on how well one can adjust to daylight saving time. In the days leading up to the time change, one should try to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Foods that are rich in magnesium — leafy greens, nuts and seeds — and melatonin — cherries or almonds — can promote better sleep.

Prepare your environment — One’s sleep environment is key to getting quality rest. Make sure one’s bedroom is dark, quiet and cool. Consider black out curtains or an eye mask to block out the early morning light and try using a white noise machine or earplugs if one is sensitive to nighttime noises.

Stay hydrated — Dehydration can make one feel sluggish and tired. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid alcohol or excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate and disrupt sleep.

Although springing forward during daylight saving time can disrupt one’s routine, taking some simple steps can make a world of difference. Gradually adjusting sleep, getting more sunlight, staying active, monitoring one’s diet and staying hydrated while preparing one’s personal environment are some of the ways that one could prepare. As we look forward to nicer weather, springing forward in time is a small bump in the road.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

The Western Howl

Home » Lifestyle

Inner peace in politics

February 26, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Politics can be hard to escape, and it’s been especially hard to find peace with what’s been happening lately in the world, whether it’s the latest elected official, new executive order, the ongoing ideological battles resulting in increasing polarization or the spread of misinformation. Politics have always been heated, but the most recent election has brought out the extremes. While it is important to stay informed, it’s also crucial to protect one’s mental and emotional peace. Here are some practical strategies to help navigate the chaotic world of politics without sacrificing one’s well-being.

Limit media consumption — Many things may feel out of control with the fast changes of this nation, but one thing we have control over is the amount of political news consumed. The media thrives on sensationalism. Constant exposure to negative headlines or partisan commentary can contribute to stress and anxiety, resulting in nihilism. Countering these negative impacts by setting a designated amount of time each day for political news can be beneficial. This could be looking at what’s going on during breakfast or after work, instead of doom scrolling throughout the day.

Another way is to be intentional about where one gets their news. Always choose reputable, balanced sources of information that focus on facts rather than emotion-driven content. Some news networks that are mostly unbiased include @realtalkingfish on Instagram, The Guardian, Associated Press, NPR and the Wall Street Journal.

Set boundaries with social media — Platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram often fuel polarizing political discourse. Political debates, heated arguments and the spread of misinformation can quickly turn “for you” pages into battlefields. While social media can be a powerful tool for staying informed, it can also become a toxic environment if not managed well.

One can take control by actively seeking out posts and discussions that promote healthy perspectives and unfollowing topics/accounts that trigger stress or anger. It is also important to know when to step back from platforms that no longer benefit one’s mental health. There’s nothing wrong with taking a digital detox every once in a while. Disconnecting from the online world helps to reset and refocus on different aspects of one’s life.

Engage in politics in moderation — While it’s important to be informed on what’s going on in the world, excessive engagement in politics can drain one’s energy. It’s extremely easy to fall down the rabbit hole of endless debates, commentary and updates. While it’s good to participate in democracy, it’s also okay to take a break from the constant political conversation. One should focus on meaningful conversations with others who respect differing opinions, and avoid conversations when they become toxic. Remember that one is allowed to step back and save energy for moments that matter most.

Prioritize self-care — With all of politics’ unpredictability and polarization, they can take a toll on one’s mental and emotional health. Self-care is an effective way to combat stress. One should take time for activities that bring joy and relaxation — reading a book, going for a walk, practicing yoga or spending time with friends and family. Exercise is also important for managing stress. Physical activity helps by releasing endorphins, which are the body’s natural form of stress relief. Also, when one is feeling overwhelmed by political events, one should consider practicing mindfulness and meditation to center oneself and become grounded.

Practice emotional detachment — This is one of the most effective ways to protect one’s peace. This doesn’t mean abandoning one’s values or disengaging from important causes. Instead, it prioritizes learning how to emotionally distance oneself from the turbulence of politics. It’s easy to feel personally affected by political decisions, especially when the stakes are high regarding the continued rights of specific minority groups. It’s also important to recognize which factors are beyond one’s control. Try adopting a mindset that accepts uncertainty and focuses on what one can control, such as how one reacts to political events. If a political event triggers anger or frustration, take a moment to acknowledge those feelings and decide the next step to take. This could simply be letting those feelings go, or taking a specific action.

Surround oneself with supportive people — One’s social circle can play a huge role in emotional well-being. Surround oneself with people who uplift and support instead of those who constantly push their political opinions or engage in unproductive discussions. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect. Nurturing friendships with people who value peace and personal boundaries can make the difference when trying to protect one’s sanity. If political discussion happens in group settings that make one uncomfortable, it’s okay to respectfully steer the conversation in a different direction or excuse oneself from the conversation altogether.

Find balance with perspective — It’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture when lost in the political noise. In the heat of the moment, political events can feel like life-and-death, but it’s important to maintain perspective. Take time to reflect on what’s truly important in one’s life — relationships, health, personal growth and emotional well-being. Although politics influence the world around us, they don’t have to define one’s happiness.

Engage in constructive conversations — When discussing politics with others, try to engage in constructive, respectful conversations rather than arguments. Try to avoid getting drawn into heated debates where emotions take control. One doesn’t have to agree with everyone, but it’s important to be able to be satisfied and proud of one’s actions and words. If one is ashamed at the end of the day, maybe it’s time to understand where one needs to change. If a discussion starts to get too intense, it’s okay to politely disengage. Protecting one’s peace sometimes means stepping away from situations that threaten emotional stability.

Politics in the United States can be overwhelming, but one doesn’t have to let them take a toll on their mental and emotional health. At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that love is more powerful than hate, to stick to one’s values and to understand that some relationships are not as simple as a difference in ideas.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

The Western Howl

Home » Lifestyle

Lovin’ the lüften lifestyle

February 26, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Lüften is a German practice of opening windows to air out a space and improve air quality in a home. This practice is deeply rooted in German tradition, which is seen as a way of life, and aligns with the values of cleanliness and health. This widely powerful tradition promotes better air quality, health and comfort. There are three techniques that one could practice.

Stoßlüften is also known as shock or impact ventilation. In order to participate in this practice, one should open windows or balcony doors wide to let cold air in. This allows the air to quickly exchange and flush out the stale air. This is most effective in the winter, but all of the seasons have different time limits to accommodate the lower temperatures — 5 minutes in the winter, 10-15 minutes in autumn and spring and 30 minutes in the summer.

The second technique is known as Querlüften. This is also known as cross ventilation. Cross ventilation involves opening all the windows of a house to allow fresh air to flow. This technique has many goals, such as getting rid of smells and stopping rooms from getting too humid.

The third technique is Kipplüften. This technique involves opening the windows slightly, which results in continuous ventilation at a slower pace compared to Querlüften and Stoßlüften. This is the preferred practice since it acts as an efficient way to clear out old air and reduce indoor pollutants. It is also used in warmer months.

All these techniques improve air quality in the room, keeping the air from getting too dry and stale. There are many benefits to the practice that can positively impact one’s life. First, colder temperatures are associated with better sleep. According to Healthline, a cooler room will naturally match the body’s drop in temperature, making it easier to fall and stay asleep. The temperature should be around 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit. One way to get the most out of this practice is not overdoing it. One should find the balance of getting enough fresh air and ventilation while also making sure that the temperature supports one’s sleep. Another is to monitor temperatures and air quality. When the weather dips below freezing it can actually be detrimental to one’s health. During this time, one should instead set the thermostat to a cool temperature that promotes better rest. It’s also important to pay attention to air quality. According to airNow.gov, the value of air quality should be between 0 to 150. These levels do not affect the majority of the public, but anything over 150 is unhealthy, and many experience adverse health effects. “If the air outside isn’t safe to breathe, it’s best to leave the windows shut,” airNow.gov states.

This intentional practice aims to break the norm of modern society of staying indoors for long periods of time. Stagnant air negatively impacts a person because it leads to a build-up of allergens, bacteria and unpleasant odors which contribute to headaches, fatigue and respiratory issues. Lüften has a positive effect on one’s mood by creating a more relaxed and inviting atmosphere for others. Incorporating this practice could be the thing a home needs to feel fresh and energetic.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

The Western Howl

Home » Lifestyle

Healthy is proactive

February 26, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Living a healthy lifestyle can be difficult, especially when navigating through seasons of annual illness. Oregon’s cold and flu season typically runs from October to May. During the 2024-2025 flu season, health officials have noticed that cases have skyrocketed. As one attempts to end winter on a healthy note, health becomes a top priority for many. One of the best ways to get through the cold and flu season is to take a preventive approach. This includes staying home when one is feeling under the weather or sick, giving extra space to other people in public, wearing a mask when needed, washing hands more frequently, eating a balanced diet, getting an adequate amount of sleep and, most effectively, getting the flu shot. Although vaccines have become a controversial topic, taking preventative measures to protect the health of oneself and others is of the utmost importance.

To understand why the flu vaccine is important in the name of public health, one should know what influenza is and how it functions. Influenza is a virus that infects the nose, throat and lungs — meaning it mainly attacks the respiratory system. This virus travels through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. When someone is exposed to the flu, some of the symptoms a person can experience are a sore throat, a runny nose, fever, cough, headache, fatigue and chills within a couple of days.

One may wonder what the flu vaccine has to do with lifestyle, but there are several effects. As finals week approaches, students are preparing for projects, essays, exams and many other assignments. With this upcoming stress, the immune system becomes susceptible to illness. Getting sick isn’t an ideal situation when one has a full schedule. Outside of the classroom, some might have to call out of work and bills might pile up. Getting the flu shot will result in milder symptoms, allowing a person to return to work and get back to studying if one gets exposed to the flu. Another reason is that it can protect children and the elderly. Many people have younger siblings, cousins or even grandparents that can have complications if they get the flu and then another illness. Protecting oneself and living a healthy lifestyle includes protecting the health of our friends, family and neighbors. Some strains of the flu can be more aggressive — such as bird flu H5N1 — and overwhelm hospitals. This results in fewer beds for other patients with other life-threatening injuries and illnesses.

There are some arguments against the annual flu shot, including the belief that the flu isn’t serious. Although people older than 5 and younger than 65 can quickly recover from the flu, not everyone is lucky to fully recover from the flu. Depending on the severity of the infection, some people who fall into the high recovery rate demographic could end up with disability or death — unfortunately, death and disability do not discriminate. According to the CDC, the 2024-2025 flu season has resulted in 24 million positive cases, 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths, including at least 57 children. To put this in perspective, these are someone’s children, siblings, cousins, parents, aunts and uncles, grandparents, great-grandparents, teachers, doctors, neighbors and friends.

Sadly, the controversy of the topic has led to the direct increase in preventable illness and death. To live a healthy lifestyle, one should strive to take a proactive approach. This lifestyle reaches far beyond oneself and one should strive to live a life filled with compassion, empathy and love. Just as one would take their vitamins and get an annual checkup, this simple step can leave one healthy, happy and protected.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

The Western Howl

Home » Lifestyle

Study tips

February 26, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

As Winter term gets closer to finals week, studying for classes can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Finding the right study habits can be crucial for saving time, sanity and help one to thrive.

Create a consistent study schedule — One of the most important habits to develop is using a structured schedule instead of doing a study dump, where a student crams all of their studying time all at once. This ensures that there is enough time to study for each class. Another positive for a study schedule is that it helps to avoid procrastination because it’s already set in stone. Planning ahead allows one to digest the material, resulting in decreased stress. Without a study schedule, assignments can easily slip through the cracks, or one may be forced to cram the night before an exam. Here’s how to do it:

Begin by blocking out one’s class schedule and personal commitments in planners and calendars.
Identify gaps in one’s daily schedule and plan out shorter study sessions.
1. Shorter study sessions should be between 45-60 minutes with at least 5-minute breaks in order to maintain focus.
Use tools like planners, calendars or apps to track assignments and exams.
Be sure to schedule some downtime to relax and recharge.

Stay Organized — This is the cornerstone of academic success. Having a system for managing notes, assignments and other deadlines helps to understand the material. This works to reduce mental clutter which leads to better concentration and less stress. When one can find what one needs quickly, it leads to studying more efficiently and avoiding wasting time. Here’s how to do it:

Keep notes organized by subject, topic or date. Use binders or digital tools like OneNote, Notion or Evernote for easy access.
Color-code or highlight key information to make it easier to identify when reviewing.
Use to-do lists to keep track of assignments, with realistic deadlines and reminders.
Regularly clean up one’s study space to keep distractions at bay. A tidy space leads to a clear mind.

Minimize Distractions — Distractions are everywhere — social media, messages and constant notifications can easily pull you away from studying. While multitasking may seem like an efficient strategy, it often leads to decreased productivity. According to Brown Health University, “In reality, our brains are not set up to multitask. We are designed to be ‘mono-taskers,’ that is, to focus on and complete ‘one task at a time.’” This becomes even clearer when one tries studying with each method. There’s a clear difference when it comes to brain fatigue at the end of a study session. Minimizing distractions allows one to complete tasks faster and retain more information. Concentration on material leads to an improvement in one’s overall academic performance. Here’s how to practice this:

Turn one’s phone to focus or do not disturb mode to limit distractions during study time.
Find a quiet place, such as a library, to study.
Set specific, intentional times to check one’s phone or respond to messages, preferably during breaks.
Try using the “Pomodoro Technique”: Study for 25-30 minutes and then take a short break. After a few cycles, take a longer break.

Take care of mental and physical health — It’s easy to neglect the other parts of health when one is drowning in assignments, exams and other deadlines. However, the mind and body are the foundation of academic success. Good physical and mental health will improve focus, memory and overall performance. Its importance continues to boost mood, reduce stress and increase motivation. This can be done by:

Exercising regularly: Jogging, yoga or even a brisk walk can boost brain function.
Getting enough sleep: seven to nine hours per night helps consolidate learning and enhances memory retention.
Eating a balanced diet: A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can boost energy and focus.
Practicing mindfulness: Meditation, deep breathing exercises and journaling can reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
Seeking help when needed: If struggling emotionally or mentally, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor or therapist through the Student Health and Counseling Center.

Collaborate with Classmates — Studying with classmates is a highly effective way to learn outside of the classroom. Group study sessions allow one to share ideas, clarify questions and help to approach problems from different perspectives. Also, explaining concepts to others helps to reinforce one’s understanding. This could be done through:

Joining or forming study groups to review key topics before exams.
Using online forums or platforms like Discord or Slack to collaborate remotely.
Share notes, quiz each other or review difficult concepts together.
Participate in group discussions or attend office hours held by professors.

Review Regularly — Instead of cramming the night before an exam, regular review is much more effective. Weekly review ensures that material stays fresh and contributes to information retention over the long term. The brain remembers information better when it’s revisited over time, rather than when it’s crammed into a single session. In order to do this, one should be sure to:

Schedule weekly review sessions for each subject to revisit lecture notes, assignments and key concepts.
Use active recall techniques, such as using flashcards, filling out practice problems and completing practice tests.

Studying doesn’t have to be a never-ending race against deadlines. By developing effective study habits, staying organized, and focusing on physical and mental health, one can create a productive and balanced academic experience. The key to success is consistency, active engagement with materials, and a proactive approach to managing stress and distractions.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

The Western Howl

Home » Lifestyle

Finding self in solitude

February 26, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

In a world where we are constantly surrounded by people, notifications and obligations, we are often conditioned to believe that our worth is tied to how busy or connected we are. However, spending time with oneself is essential for our mental, emotional and physical well-being. The positive results of solitude go beyond “being alone.” Taking time to step away from the noise of everyday life opens the door to self-reflection, personal growth and a deeper connection to one’s own needs and desires.

Cultivates Self-Awareness and Reflection — One of the biggest benefits of spending time alone is the opportunity for self-reflection. Constantly surrounding ourselves with other people can make it difficult to hear our own thoughts. Solitude provides space for introspection. This allows one to process their thoughts, evaluate actions and think about goals in a more focused manner. One should ask themselves, “What do I really want in life? What makes me happy?” Getting in touch with one’s true self helps to make decisions that are more aligned with their values and long-term aspirations. One should try setting aside some quiet time to meditate and reflect.

Boosts Creativity and Innovation — Solitude is an excellent catalyst for creativity. Anyone who is an artist, a writer, a musician or an enjoyer of problem-solving can tap into new ideas or discover breakthroughs outside of a busy environment. The mind tends to flourish in environments free of distractions. One is more likely to access their inner creativity without the pressures of external judgment of others. Historically, many of history’s greatest creators and thinkers have credited spending time alone as the key to their creative genius. One could do this by creating a space that promotes creative thinking, taking breaks from digital distractions and using alone time to brainstorm or write.

Reduces Stress and Increases Mindfulness – In a life full of obligations it can be easy for one to feel overwhelmed by the demands of work, school, relationships and other responsibilities. Time alone helps with reducing stress and promotes relaxation in order for one to recharge and reset the mind. Mindfulness practices can help to center the mind. This can be done in many ways including finding a calming activity that can be done alone, limiting phone time and taking breaks throughout the day to be alone with our thoughts.

Enhances Emotional Clarity and Healing – Our emotions are often complex and it can be hard to fully process them throughout our busy day. Time allows one to step back, reflect and understand our feelings clearly. Stress, sadness, anger and confusion need solitude for emotional healing. Sometimes our emotions need validation and to be free from judgment of others. Freedom from other people enables one to work through difficult feelings and gain emotional clarity. It also provides the opportunity to build emotional resilience. Here are some tips on how solitude can enhance emotional clarity and healing.

Allow oneself to experience emotions without distractions or the need to “fix” them immediately. This can involve sitting with our feelings and giving permission to feel.
Practicing self-compassion by being kind to oneself when dealing with difficult emotions.
Using alone time to reflect on past experiences and gain insights into how to grow from them.

Strengthens the Relationship with Oneself – Spending quality time alone is a form of self-care that helps to build a deeper and more loving relationship with oneself. Instead of only relying on others for validation and happiness, it can be empowering to recognize that one can, at times, fulfill their own emotional and social needs. The relationship that one has for themselves sets the tone for all other relationships in life. Self-awareness helps to build a more positive self-image and become more confident in one’s decisions. Self-love and inner peace depend on learning to enjoy one’s own company. This can be done in several ways including, going on “dates” with oneself, celebrating small victories and reflection on things one loves about themself and to make time to nurture those qualities.

Improves Focus and Productivity – Focused time can help to accomplish tasks more efficiently and effectively. Whether it’s studying, working on a personal project or tackling household chores, solitude can enhance productivity by allowing one to focus deeply on the task at hand. Focused time leads to better results where one can fully immerse themselves in the task and complete it with a greater attention to detail.

Fosters Independence and Confidence – Solitude fosters a sense of independence. It teaches one to rely on themself for emotional support and decision-making. Once one is comfortable enough in their own company, they become less dependent on external validation and more confident in the ability to navigate life’s challenges. One should trust their own instincts and embrace solitude as an opportunity to strengthen resilience and self-reliance.

Spending time alone is not a luxury — it is a vital part of maintaining mental, emotional and physical well-being. Whether solitude is used for self-reflection, creativity, emotional healing or simply to recharge, the benefits are undeniable. In a world that often celebrates constant connection, taking time for oneself is an act of self-respect and care. By embracing solitude, one can deepen the relationship with oneself, enhancing focus, reducing stress and ultimately leading a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Western Oregon University’s Land Acknowledgement
Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

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Sustainable living

Daylight saving time

Lovin’ the lüften lifestyle

Healthy is proactive

Study tips

Finding self in solitude

Tools

Resources