Using a Wood-Fired Sauna: 10 Health Benefits + How to Get the Most From It

Nootka Sauna

Introduction Living off-grid has taught me to appreciate simple, powerful ways to take care of my health—and one of my favorites is our wood-fired sauna. There’s something about stepping into that warm cedar space after a long day that seems to reset everything. It’s not just relaxing—it actually does a lot for your body. If … Read more

Best Off-Grid Power Options for Cabins, Homesteads, and Remote Living

Off-grid power options for cabins and homesteads using solar, wind, and generator backup

Off-Grid Power Options for Cabins and Homesteads Living off-grid in a cabin or on a homestead is about more than independence — it’s about building systems that work year-round, through winter, storms, and long stretches away from town. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right off-grid power options to support … Read more

Types of Log Splitters for Off-Grid Living (Manual vs Electric vs Gas)

Log splitters for off grid cabin

If you heat with wood like we do, you already know — splitting firewood is not optional. And if you’re living off-grid, the right log splitter can mean the difference between a long, exhausting chore… and a smooth afternoon of productive work. There are three main types of log splitters: Manual log splitters Electric log … Read more

Best Off-Grid States in America

Off-grid cabin in a rural American landscape with solar power and garden

Are you thinking of living off grid? Living off grid has become an increasingly popular choice — people wanting to get back to basics, stop paying for utilities, gain independence, and not worry about constant bills for water, sewer, power, and other services. If you’re thinking of living off the grid in the United States, … Read more

Most Effective Mosquito Repellents for Off-Grid Living

Off-grid cabin during heavy mosquito season in summer

Mosquito season at the cabin can be brutal some years — and this is definitely one of them. After two wildfire seasons, we were grateful for the moisture this spring. The forest needed it. The wild strawberries are the biggest I’ve ever seen. But all that rain created perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Trying to … Read more

Tapped Birch Water

birch water being tapped from a tree

Every spring, when the snow starts to melt and the days begin to warm up, something incredible happens—birch trees start running with sap. Not far from our property, we have a grove of birch trees, and this year we decided to tap them for fresh birch water and try making birch syrup. For my husband, … Read more

Oregon Grape: A Powerful Wild Medicinal Plant (Uses, Benefits & How to Harvest)

🌿 What Is Oregon Grape? Oregon grape is one of the most useful wild plants you’ll find along the west coast of North America. Around our off-grid property, it grows naturally and is something I’ve come to appreciate more every year. Despite the name, it’s not actually a grape—but once you see the deep purple … Read more

Off-Grid Tools Survival Axe: The Ultimate Off-Grid Multitool

axe chopping wood

If you spend any time living off-grid, camping, or even just keeping emergency gear in your vehicle, having the right tools matters. One tool I’ve come across that really stands out is the Off Grid Tools Survival Axe Multitool — and honestly, it’s one of those tools that makes you wonder why you didn’t have … Read more

Best Books to Read Before Going Off Grid

Books to Read If You’re Thinking About Going Off Grid If you’ve been thinking about moving off grid—or even just flirting with the idea—there are a few books that can help you understand what you’re really signing up for. Some focus on the practical skills you’ll need, while others share honest, often humorous stories about … Read more