Underconsumption Core
Over the past few months, the underconsumption core trend has gained significant traction, and to my surprise, I’ve been featured in newspapers, TV news outlets, and radio stations across Canada. I was even interviewed for a newscast in South Korea! Honestly, I’m not entirely sure why they interviewed me—after all, plenty of creators have been promoting this lifestyle—but perhaps it’s because my entire account focuses on underconsumption core.
So, what is underconsumption core?
It’s the simple, intentional act of buying less and only what you truly need. It’s a lifestyle that encourages us to resist the constant lure of trends and impulse buying, which so often leads to waste. Underconsumption core is a direct pushback against the rampant overconsumerism that has become so normalized in our culture—think influencer hauls, Amazon Prime’s instant gratification, and the cycle of buying things that ultimately get discarded.
Overconsumption has become the norm in North America, but for many of us, especially with today’s economic challenges, buying more than we need just isn’t feasible. That’s why some of us are embracing the wisdom of past generations—our parents and grandparents—who lived with less, repurposed items, and made things last.
For me, underconsumption is also about the environment. It’s about reducing waste and making thoughtful choices. This has been a natural part of my life for as long as I can remember, largely because it’s how I was raised.
Where It All Began: My Parents’ Influence
One of the questions I’ve been asked repeatedly by the media is, “When did you start underconsuming?” My answer is simple: I was raised this way. My parents, who grew up on the small island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, have lived like this their entire lives, and I’ve followed in their footsteps.
Mauritius, being a tiny island, had limited resources, and my parents were used to making the most of what they had. They valued every item they owned, whether it was clothes, furniture, or food. This way of life shaped who I am today and my belief that you don’t need to buy new things constantly to be happy or fulfilled.
In fact, I’m currently working on a video where I’ll take you to my parents’ house to show you firsthand how they live with less, cherish what they have, and reduce waste. It’s what makes their house feel like a home—everything has a story, a purpose, and they’ve mastered the art of making things last.
Learning from the Past: A Visit to My Parents’ Home
For a little background, my parents are from Mauritius, which is part of Africa. Growing up on an island with limited resources meant they had to be resourceful, and that mindset has never left them. I’m excited to share how they cherish and repurpose everything around them, and how this has influenced my journey of underconsumption.
For instance, here are the cinnamon buns I brought over for breakfast, filled with apples and watermelon rinds. Yes, watermelon rinds! Like my mom, I’ve started finding creative ways to reduce waste in the kitchen, and it’s a habit that has truly transformed how I cook and live.
As I get older, I find myself wanting to spend more time with my parents, learning from their wisdom. For the longest time, I didn’t realize that what they were doing was eco-friendly; it was simply how they lived. Now, I understand how important their lifestyle is in the bigger picture of sustainability.
Join the Conversation
If your parents or grandparents have similar habits, I’d love to hear about it. It’s amazing how much we can learn from older generations when it comes to living intentionally.
In the Media
Here are a few links from me in the media about the underconsumption Core trend. I was featured in over 17 aricles across Canada here are some highlights.
At CBC Montreal
Globe and Mail
Montreal Gazette
Le Devoir- Montreal
Radio
CBC Radio Noon
The Even Bray Show- Saskatoon
TV Broadcast
CTV News
https://www.ctvnews.ca/video/c2983166-ctv-national-news--underconsumption-trend
Airiang News South Korea
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Mge38ciT9U
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The super latte we are drinking in the video is from Clevr Blends a wellness drink. Use Code: CHRISTINE15 for a discount. I esp love thier matcha Latte.
Support my skincare brand Olona Earth. All products a fairtrade and organic. I use these oils daily!
