Last Updated on October 21, 2023 by cmv
It’s been almost a decade now since I embarked on a profound lifestyle transformation that was essential for my personal growth.
This journey began shortly after emerging from a deeply transformative relationship, a period of healing that prompted me to re-evaluate how I showed up for myself. It marked the commencement of my voyage into the realms of spiritual and personal development, which would go on to reshape my entire existence.
I found myself surrounded by influential life coaches, therapists, and individuals committed to their spiritual well-being, embracing practices like meditation, therapy, and mindful eating. Within these circles, I started hearing whispers about the benefits of a vegan diet. I must confess that before making the switch to a vegan diet in late 2015, I used to chuckle at the idea of giving up dairy. Though I had been a vegetarian since the age of 17, I couldn’t imagine a life without dairy products, especially cheese. Yet, here I was, at a retreat in the serene outskirts of California, savouring exquisitely crafted vegan dishes. That experience sealed the deal for me, opening the door to a world of culinary diversity I had never known. The array of meals that graced my plate, the plethora of unfamiliar vegetables, and the delightful concoctions I savoured far surpassed the carb-heavy, dairy-laden diet I had adhered to for so long.
This newfound exploration of my mental, physical, and spiritual well-being catalyzed numerous changes in my life, with my diet being one of the most impactful. Embracing veganism brought immediate improvements to my health. My skin cleared up, my energy levels soared, and my menstrual cycle regulated itself almost magically. It felt like a long-overdue “thank you” from my body. The transition to a vegan diet felt effortless, almost as if I were in perfect alignment with this decision. When we make choices from a place of clarity, obstacles tend to dissolve, and inspiration deepens. The world seems to rearrange itself to align with our desires.
But it wasn’t just the physical changes that fascinated me; it was the profound impact on my mental health. As I nourished my body with whole, plant-based foods, I noticed a remarkable shift in my mental clarity and emotional well-being. I felt more grounded, centered, and resilient in the face of life’s challenges. It was as if my brain had been cleansed, allowing me to think more clearly and manage stress with greater ease.
Scientific research supports the connection between a vegan diet and mental health. The abundance of nutrients in plant-based foods, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, has been shown to support brain health and reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. Additionally, the ethical and environmental aspects of veganism aligned with my values, contributing to an increased sense of purpose and contentment.
For me, adopting a vegan lifestyle brought about a profound sense of wellness and inner balance. I continue to listen to my intuition, recognizing the importance of making decisions that resonate with our individual truths. One-size-fits-all approaches can foster division, and I don’t believe veganism is the right fit for everyone. However, I encourage individuals to cultivate curiosity about their consumption and the quality of what they eat. Choosing a vegan lifestyle is an opportunity to nurture compassion for oneself, others, and the world.
As a mindful vegan, I made a significant discovery – the importance of prioritizing quality in our food choices. It’s easy to fall into the trap of “junk food veganism,” but to safeguard our spiritual and physical well-being, we must explore foods thoughtfully, embrace creativity, and appreciate the abundance of wonderful culinary experiences (just take a peek inside my fridge – it’s a colourful feast!).
But mindfulness extends beyond food; it encompasses how we treat one another. Hence, I’ve always regarded my decision to go vegan as deeply personal, never pushing it onto family, friends, or loved ones. What we consume is a profoundly personal choice, and although some may disagree, I firmly believe in living in alignment with our own truth, allowing our light to shine for those who express interest.
In a world where the freedom to choose is highly valued, let us foster love and respect for one another. May we all find the space to grow and change as we become increasingly attuned to our inner light, understanding that what feels right today may evolve with time.
