I haven't eaten meat in about a month. I seemed to continually run across documentaries, health articles, or pod casts boasting the benefits of a plant based diet. I decided to give it a try, tip toeing at first before I went all the way in. Right now I'm a vegetarian, or specifically, something like a Lacto-vegetarian (eats dairy) and Ovo-vegetarian (eats eggs). Eventually I want to go strict vegan, but it's a process and learning how to pack my food for an entire day at work can be hard at times.
Since deciding to adopt this lifestyle, I have experienced a monumental shift in my way of life and how I view things. Strictly speaking about my physical body, I have lost fat and maintained my muscle. I used to have some issues with my stomach, specifically bouts of stomach pain and constipation (sorry if that's TMI). Those issues cleared up almost immediately. I have high energy levels, a good mood, and I notice no negative impact at this time. These are the small things that this lifestyle change did for me. Voluntarily choosing to change the way I live opened a door for me that I never knew was closed. I know this might sound kind of cheesy, but I started to really reflect on the way I lived. I have since adopted a form of minimalism, I strive to live a very intentional life and I am truthful and I attempt to leave a positive impact on those I come across.
Now, are all these lifestyle changes directly attributed to eating plants? No, of course not. It was the act of doing something intentionally that caused this damn to open up. So many of us are just going through our lives like our parents did.... this is how it's always been. Hold up. Stop thinking like that. We are human beings, capable of anything! The human spirit is a beautiful thing, but it has to be nurtured and allowed to blossom. Feed your spirit, and it will most certainly return the favor.
Anyways! Back on topic. When people ask me why I stopped eating meat, here are my reasons.
1. From the knowledge that I currently have, and am striving to attain more of, it seems to me that it can be a very healthy diet.
2. I am of the opinion that big agriculture is really bad for the environment. Environmental conservation is very important to me, so this is a way for me to help.
3. I am living a life of non-violence and compassion. If I can get all of my nutrition in a manner in which nothing has to die, why wouldn't I?
Those are my reasons. Additionally, food is still super delicious! Not too long ago I made some vegan burritos and they were amazing!
Whole grain brown rice
Pinto beans
Garlic, onion, tomatoes, and jalapeno roasted in olive oil
Fresh Avocado
Siracha! Everyone loves Siracha!
So, that's that. I'm not going to criticize anyone who eats meat or tell people how to live their life. You won't see me on the corner with a meat is murder sign. I'm just saying, think about it. Cows and piggies are alive! They don't have to die just so we can have a crappy burger :-(
