Vegetarianism has been around since the beginning of time but lately has made a comeback we’ve never experienced before. The biggest reason being that our planet is at stake. As documentaries, books, articles and activists attest; one of the easiest personal act we can do to help save the earth is to limit our intake of meat. Fellow retreat hosts tend to agree, as the surge of vegetarian retreats rise to the task.
It turns out that vegetarians may have the last laugh when it comes to longevity. Studies have shown that people who follow a vegetarian diet tend to live longer than those who eat meat. In fact, some of the longest-living people in the world, living in areas known as the "blue zones" follow mostly plant-based diets. So, not only is being a vegetarian good for the environment and animal welfare, but it can also help you live a longer, healthier life. It's a win-win situation!
The word ahimsa comes from Sanskrit and is a concept in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It is practiced by individuals who follow these religions and is also embraced by many people who seek to live a non-violent lifestyle. Ahimsa is like a superhero power that some people practice. It means being gentle and kind to all living beings, and avoiding any actions that could cause harm or violence. So, imagine you have the power to spread love and compassion wherever you go, just by being mindful of your actions and choices. That's what ahimsa is all about! And one of the ways people express their ahimsa power is by choosing to be vegetarian, as it is a way to live in harmony with the earth and all the creatures that inhabit it. So, join the ahimsa league and let's make the world a kinder and more peaceful place, one veggie meal at a time!
Studies have also shown that vegetarians tend to have lower body weights than meat eaters. This may be because plant-based foods are generally lower in calories and fat, and higher in fibre than animal-based foods. Vegetarianism can support healthy habits by encouraging people to fill their plates with vegetables and other plant-based foods, which are typically low in calories and high in nutrients.Even if someone chooses to eat meat occasionally, also known as being flexitarian, incorporating more vegetables into their diet can still be beneficial for their overall health, such as maintaining a healthy weight.
Becoming a vegetarian can be a challenge, but it's a lot easier when you have support! Think of it like trying to climb a mountain. It's a lot easier to reach the summit when you have a team of climbers cheering you on and providing encouragement. The same goes for vegetarianism - it's a lot easier to make the switch when you have a supportive environment and a group of people who are all in it together. So, if you're thinking about giving vegetarianism a try, consider joining a group or attending a retreat where you can find the support you need to succeed!
Meat consumption has been linked to the production of greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change. The production of meat also requires a significant amount of resources, including water and land, which can have negative impacts on the environment. Additionally, the packaging and transportation of meat products often involve the use of plastic, which can further harm the planet. While it's true that not everyone needs to become a vegetarian, reducing meat consumption can be a positive step towards a more eco-conscious lifestyle. By choosing to eat more plant-based foods, we can help reduce our impact on the environment and create a healthier planet for future generations.
Vegetarianism is not just a lifestyle choice, it's also a trend that's catching on like wildfire! With more and more people realizing the benefits of plant-based diets and with chefs innovating in making veggie dishes taste better than ever, it's no wonder that vegetarianism is becoming the new "it" thing. From celebrities to athletes, everyone seems to be jumping on the veggie bandwagon. So, don't be left behind - join the cool kids and try vegetarianism at your next retreat!