“It is my view that the vegetarian manner of living, by its purely physical effect on the human temperament, would most beneficially influence the lot of mankind.” ― Albert Einstein
The human mind has something beautifully stretchy called 'plasticity', which can facilitates personal transformations at any age. Our early habits come to us through our well intention caregivers. However, as our consciousness grows we may find ourselves no longer in alignment with those inherited habits. During my early years as a vegetarian I met some adversity from my mid-western family and friends. While they mean well, they are operating from what had been ingrained in them as children and not necessarily from higher consciousness. It has been well over seventeen years since I began my diet transformation and fortunately now the topic is rarely raised; they have accepted my choice to live and eat differently.You may have considered a vegetarian diet and there are many great reasons to do so. First and foremost you will likely experience a notable improvement in your health and energy level. My experience was and still is that, the more aware I am about what I eat, the more motivated I am to change how I eat. A key first step in the process of change is education.
I enjoy reading about the sociology of food. While there are a hella ton of books written on this topic, a good place to start is Michael Pollan 2006 book called, "The Omnivore's Dilemma." He takes us on a journey as your food travels from its source to the table, by following the making of four distinct meals. This book gives the reader an accurate look at what occurs in the food production industry today. As a mid-western girl it was easy to relate and understand how the shifts in agronomy happened over the years, nevertheless my understanding has fueled my desire to find a better way. Pollan has written several books since this one and continues to take you through the epicurean choices facing us in the world of food today.
My journey to vegetarianism began when I realized that I was lactose intolerant, and all dairy had to be eliminated from my diet. In less than a week of not eating any products derived from cow's milk, I felt better and had so much more energy. There are many political and health reasons for not eating dairy, but feeling better was my indication that I had made the right choice. As I became more aware of how the foods I ate were making me feel, my true transformation began. After eating, I would think and make note of my energy level including how my body felt. It wasn't long before nearly all animal products were eliminated my diet.
A few years ago on top of lactose-free and vegetarian I became gluten-free. At first, it was almost impossible to eat out, but in the years since, the GF-population has doubled and many restaurants are more aware of the various needs of its customers. For me, eliminating Gluten solved several problems including inflammation.
In my opinion, our food choices can affect how we show up in the world. If we feel clear minded, vibrant, energetic, and grounded then we have a lot more to offer life. If I occasionally get some unexpected gluten or lactose in a meal, it can take me out of the game for a day. I don't recommend that someone quite to many foods at once. It is much more likely to be sustained if attacked in smaller bits. Through elimination, you may be surprised to find what the effect of meat, dairy or gluten may have had on you.
There are enough challenges in a day, and we all want to show up with a clear mind and energy to spare. Use that stretchy stuff in your brain to stretch yourself to a better you.
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