Welcome to River Ternary!
If you’re here, you’re likely looking for ways to eliminate harmful toxins from your daily life and transition to a more natural, sustainable lifestyle. It can feel overwhelming at first, but the key is to take small, intentional steps toward change. Here are some recommendations on how to get started on this journey:
1. Assess Your Current Lifestyle
Take a look at the products you use daily—cleaning supplies, skincare, hair care, cookware, and even the food you eat. Many of these contain harmful chemicals that can disrupt hormones, irritate the skin, and negatively impact your health. Start by reading ingredient labels. If you see words like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, or artificial dyes, these are red flags. Make a list of products you suspect are problematic and prioritize replacing them over time.
2. Focus on One Area at a Time
Rather than trying to change everything at once, focus on one aspect of your life, such as personal care products, cleaning supplies, or food choices. This targeted approach prevents from getting overwhelmed and allows for more manageable changes.
3. Swap Out Toxins Gradually
Rather than throwing everything away at once (which can be costly and overwhelming), swap products as they run out. Focus on key areas such as food and cleaning products first.
4. Learn to DIY
One of the best ways to control what goes into your home is by making your own products. DIY cleaners, skincare, and even simple pantry staples can help eliminate unnecessary additives and preservatives. River Ternary will be your guide with easy-to-follow recipes and tutorials.
5. Educate Yourself Continuously
The market is flooded with “greenwashed” products—items that claim to be natural but still contain harmful ingredients. Understanding labels, certifications (like USDA Organic and EWG Verified), and reputable brands is crucial to making informed choices. Keep learning by reading, researching, and connecting with trusted sources like River Ternary.
6. Build New Habits Gradually
Establishing new, healthier habits takes time. Be patient with yourself and recognize that consistency is key to making lasting changes. Set realistic goals and focus on maintaining progress rather than striving for perfection.
7. Create a Sustainable Routine
Switching to a natural lifestyle isn’t just about what you remove but also about what you add. Some key habits to integrate: choosing whole, unprocessed foods; drinking clean, filtered water; using natural fibers for clothing and bedding; practicing mindful consumption—buying less, choosing better.
8. Seek Support
Consider involving friends or family members in your journey. Having a support system can provide motivation and make the transition smoother. Engage with the River Ternary community for shared experiences, advice, and encouragement.
9. Start Small, Stay Consistent
You don’t need to do everything at once. Focus on one change at a time, whether it’s switching your toothpaste, replacing plastic with glass containers, or making your own all-purpose cleaner. Small, consistent efforts lead to lasting results.
10. Join the River Ternary Community
You’re not alone in this journey! River Ternary is here to support you with guides, product recommendations, DIY recipes, and a community that values health and sustainability. Together, we can create a home that is free from toxins and filled with natural, nourishing alternatives.
Who am I?
That's me milking a cow during a field trip on a farm in Hawaii.
Hi, I’m Tina, the creator of River Ternary—a space devoted to living cleaner, greener, and more sustainably, even in the heart of the city.
In today’s world, toxins like PFAS, microplastics, and synthetic chemicals are almost impossible to avoid. They creep into our food, water, and everyday products. While we can’t control everything, we can choose better—by swapping harmful items for safer alternatives, growing some of our own food, and creating healthier homes.
For me, that’s meant transforming my city apartment into a little homestead. I grow what I can, look for toxin-free solutions, and take steps toward a more sustainable way of living. One day, I dream of expanding to a peaceful farm—raising chickens, tending a garden, and living fully off the land. Until then, I’m making the most of where I am, one small step at a time.
Food has always been central to my life. Growing up surrounded by a blend of cuisines and traditions, shaped by a childhood that took me from Hawaii to Las Vegas, Japan, and Minnesota. Those experiences gave me deep roots in understanding how food connects culture, health, and community.
’m currently earning my Master Level Nutrition Consultant Certification through the AFPA, which includes specialized training in Holistic Nutrition, Health and Wellness Coaching, Gut Health, and Weight Loss Coaching. I also hold certifications from Stanford University in Child Nutrition and Cooking as well as Introduction to Food and Health.
Bringing this passion and knowledge together, I co-founded Haven Provisions, a personalized chef service in NYC offering fresh, clean, and sustainably sourced meals tailored to individual health goals.
Through River Ternary, I hope to share what I’ve learned—and continue to learn—so we can live more intentionally, naturally, and affordably. Together, we can reclaim our health and create a cleaner, more sustainable future—one choice at a time.
Stay Connected & Keep Me Informed
I believe in continuous learning and transparency, and I know that information on brands and products are always evolving. If you come across new brands or products that align with our values, or if you learn of changes in quality, transparency, or ethics regarding a brand we’ve recommended, please share your insights with the community. Your input helps us all make better choices and ensures that River Ternary remains a trusted resource for healthier, non-toxic living.
You can also email me at hello@riverternary.com. I'd love to hear from you!
Disclaimer
River Ternary is a wellness and lifestyle blog intended for informational and educational purposes only. While I strive to provide accurate, up-to-date information, this content should not be considered a substitute for professional medical, nutritional, or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any changes to your health, diet, or lifestyle routines.
Products and brands featured on River Ternary are based on my personal research and experiences. Any product recommendations are not guaranteed to work for everyone, and I encourage readers to do their own research and consult professionals when needed. Some posts may contain affiliate links, through which I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps keep River Ternary running and allows me to continue bringing you quality content.