This January I found myself aimlessly searching for resolutions and lifestyle changes that would provide me with prosperity and opportunity in 2021. After spending a week catching up with one of my best friends from high school, who has been vegan for about a year now, I decided to participate in Veganuary.
I will disclose that my fully vegan lifestyle didn’t officially begin until January 5th, however, I have not looked back since. Although I am an avid cheese lover, I am also someone whose stomach does not exactly agree with dairy products. Cutting out dairy for me was a no brainer. Whenever I found myself missing cheese I reminded myself of how horrible it made me feel. I thought eliminating meat would be a lot harder than it was. It was a little challenging at times like when my mom decided to order take out from my favorite chinese restaurant, but once I found some great meat replacements I no longer had that meat craving.
After a week or two, I could already notice changes in my physical and mental health. My skin cleared up and my body felt more energized than ever. I felt really good about what I was eating and how I was feeling to the point that being vegan turned into something that I aspire to be long term.
I think the hardest thing is explaining to people why I decided to make the transition to a plant-based lifestyle. I get tons of questions and comments from people explaining how they could never give up certain foods and whatnot. I too used to think the same way. However, when you feel as good as I feel on a plant-based diet, you never really want to go back. It’s challenging because there’s this expectation that people only become vegan for the good of the environment or because of existing health issues when in reality it is completely okay to do it for yourself as a form of self-care. Obviously, I understand the health and environmental benefits, but at the end of the day, I do it for myself because it is something that I like and is good for my body.
I don’t think that being vegan is something that suits everyone. I acknowledge that it is difficult to follow a plant-based diet while being at school and being a young adult. Going out to eat isn’t always easy and dining hall food can often be undesirable. Yet, I want to try my best to stick with this because it is something that I enjoy. If you’re at all interested, I think it is worthwhile to try out being vegan or even try limiting certain foods from your diet. I promise if you stick with it, you’ll see incredible results!