Stepping outside the convenience of water that flows from a tap brings a whole lot of perspective to this life-giving nectar.
Effective planning is critical to self reliance.
Next to air, water is the second most important nutrient for human survival. If you have the opportunity to pitch a tent on one of the beaches of the world and build your life in year-round sunshine, staying warm is not an issue. On the other hand if you're any kind of familiar with damp cold whistling through your home during a January snowstorm, the NEED for heat is obvious. A heating system that supports a self-reliant lifestyle takes planning, but it can still be simple. Self reliance means that you become your own mini-power company.