When I left my parents' house in 1996, I gained the autonomy to shape my diet based on my instincts, spiritual guidance, and intuition. I chose to eliminate all animal products from my consumption, a decision that profoundly transformed my life for the better, leading to numerous extraordinary experiences. At the time, I was unfamiliar with the term "vegan" and was seemingly alone in this dietary choice among my peers. However, I felt an unwavering conviction in the path laid out before me by the universe.
This dietary shift played a pivotal role in opening my mind to profound spiritual visions and insights, enhancing my connection with what I perceive as angelic entities and miraculous energies. I sensed a shift in my karmic energy, fostering greater compassion and love for all forms of life. My ability to communicate telepathically with animals also seemed to sharpen. These new perceptions guided me towards studying "A Course in Miracles" and the works of Carl Jung, which led me through significant personal transformations, including my soul travelling out of the body into a lightning bolt of white light into an awakening. (for another post)
I'm convinced that adopting a plant-based diet helped elevate my consciousness frequency, enabling me to progress further in my spiritual journey and ride the waves of existential exploration my soul yearns for.
Each person's journey is distinct, and it's vital to tune into and follow one's internal compass.
Here’s some information I’ve gathered over the years about plant-based choices. Take it with a silo of salt, as there’s no reason why any diet can’t lead you to a spiritual or ethical path and contribute to doing good in the world. I am aware of many evolved and lovingly-awesome individuals who also choose a meat-based diet.
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Throughout history, various cultures have been known for their plant-based diets, often influenced by geography, religion, philosophy, or economic factors. Here are some notable examples:
Ancient India:
Buddhism and Jainism: Both religions, originating in India, emphasize non-violence (ahimsa), which often leads to vegetarianism or veganism. Jainism, in particular, has strict dietary rules to avoid harming any living being, leading to a predominantly plant-based diet.
Ancient Greece and Rome:
Pythagoreans: Followers of the philosopher Pythagoras were known to practice vegetarianism, influenced by their belief in the transmigration of souls.
Medieval Europe:
Monastic Communities: Some Christian monastic orders, particularly in the Middle Ages, adopted vegetarian diets on certain days or periods as a form of asceticism or penance.
East Asia:
Buddhist Influences: In countries like China, Japan, and Korea, Buddhist monks often follow vegetarian diets. In Japan, the concept of “shōjin ryōri” (精進料理) involves cooking that is purely vegetarian, prepared by monks.
The Mediterranean Diet:
While not strictly plant-based, the traditional Mediterranean diet, which includes regions like Greece, Italy, and Spain, emphasizes plant foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains, with moderate amounts of fish and poultry.
The Middle East:
Islamic Dietary Laws: While not strictly vegetarian, Islamic dietary laws (Halal) encourage moderation in meat consumption, and many traditional dishes are predominantly plant-based, especially in regions where meat was historically less available.
Ethiopia:
Fasting Days: The Ethiopian Orthodox Church prescribes numerous fasting days where adherents abstain from all animal products, leading to a rich tradition of plant-based cuisine.
Pre-Columbian Americas:
Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas: These civilizations had diets heavily reliant on maize, beans, squash, and other plant foods. While they did consume meat, their diets were largely plant-based because of agricultural practices.
Modern Movements:
19th Century Health Movements: In the United States and Europe, the 19th century saw the rise of health reform movements like the Seventh-day Adventists, who promoted vegetarianism for health reasons.
Contemporary Veganism:
While not a historical culture in the traditional sense, the modern vegan movement, which began in the 20th century, has roots in various philosophical and ethical movements advocating for animal rights, environmental sustainability, and health.
Ancient Egypt:
While not strictly vegetarian, the diet of ancient Egyptians was predominantly plant-based due to the agricultural bounty of the Nile Delta, focusing on grains, vegetables, and fruits. Meat was often reserved for the wealthy or special occasions.
Ancient China:
Taoism: Some Taoists, particularly in certain sects, practiced vegetarianism as part of their spiritual and health practices, aiming for harmony with nature.
The Essenes:
A Jewish sect from around the time of Jesus, some historians believe they practiced vegetarianism or at least had a strong inclination towards plant-based diets, influenced by their ascetic lifestyle.
The Cathars:
A medieval Christian dualist movement in Europe, particularly in what is now southern France, known as the Albigensians. Some Cathars adhered to vegetarianism as part of their ascetic practices.
The Zoroastrians:
While not universally vegetarian, some interpretations of Zoroastrianism, particularly in its early forms, suggest a reverence for all life that could lead to vegetarian practices.
The Hunza People:
Living in the Hunza Valley in Pakistan, this community was noted for its longevity and health, often attributed to a diet rich in grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, with minimal meat.
The Rastafarian Movement:
While not strictly vegetarian, many Rastafarians follow an “Ital” diet, which emphasizes natural, plant-based foods, avoiding processed foods and often meat.
The Shakers:
An American religious sect in the 18th and 19th centuries, known for their communal living and simple lifestyle, often adopted vegetarian diets as part of their commitment to simplicity and non-violence.
The Dukhobors:
A Russian spiritual Christian group that migrated to Canada in the late 19th century. Many Dukhobors practiced vegetarianism as part of their belief in non-violence.
The Sadhus of India:
Not a culture per se, but many Hindu ascetics, known as Sadhus, adopt vegetarian or even vegan diets as part of their spiritual discipline, often living off alms which are predominantly vegetarian in India.
The Pythagoreans (Extended):
Beyond just the followers of Pythagoras, there were broader philosophical movements in ancient Greece that promoted vegetarianism, influenced by the idea of the soul’s purity.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church:
While mentioned before, it’s worth noting that this church has been instrumental in promoting vegetarianism and health reform, influencing broader dietary trends in the 20th century.
Health Benefits of Plant-Based Diets
Plant-based diets are associated with numerous health benefits, which include:
Heart Health: Plant-based diets are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, which help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
Weight Management: These diets tend to be lower in calories and higher in nutrients, which can help with weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight.
Diabetes Prevention and Management: A diet high in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Cancer Prevention: Consuming a variety of plant foods provides antioxidants and phytochemicals that protect against certain types of cancer.
Digestive Health: High fiber content in plant-based diets promotes healthy digestion and can prevent constipation and other digestive issues.
Longevity: Studies have shown that plant-based diets are linked to longer lifespans and a lower risk of chronic diseases.
Environmental Benefits: Plant-based diets have a lower environmental impact, reducing water usage, and land use compared to diets high in animal products.
These benefits highlight why many cultural and modern movements have embraced plant-based eating as a path to better health and well-being.
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Extended Info:
Roman Gladiators:
Studies have shown that Roman gladiators primarily followed a plant-based diet. Here are some key findings from the research:
Diet Composition: Analysis of bones from a gladiator cemetery in Ephesus (modern-day Turkey) revealed that their diet was largely grain-based, consisting mainly of wheat, barley, and beans. This diet was low in animal protein.
Nutritional Analysis: Researchers used spectroscopy to examine stable isotope ratios (carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur) in the collagen of the bones, along with the ratio of strontium to calcium in the bone mineral. The results indicated a diet rich in carbohydrates and low in animal products.
Health Practices: Gladiators also consumed a tonic made from plant ashes, which was believed to help fortify the body after physical exertion and promote better bone healing. This practice is similar to modern-day use of mineral supplements like magnesium and calcium.
Historical Context: Contemporary sources referred to gladiators as “hordearii” or “barley eaters,” highlighting their grain-heavy diet. This was likely due to the availability and affordability of grains compared to meat.
These findings suggest that despite their rigorous physical demands, gladiators maintained a predominantly vegetarian diet, which was both economical and sufficient to meet their nutritional needs.
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The Okinawan diet:
The Okinawan diet is renowned for its association with longevity and overall health. Okinawa, a group of islands in Japan, is one of the world’s “Blue Zones,” areas where people live significantly longer and healthier lives. Here are some key aspects of the Okinawan diet and its impact on longevity:
Key Components of the Okinawan Diet
Plant-Based Foods: The traditional Okinawan diet is predominantly plant-based, focusing on vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Sweet potatoes are a staple, providing a major source of calories1.
Low-Calorie and Nutrient-Dense: The diet is low in calories but high in nutrients, which helps in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
High in Antioxidants: Okinawans consume a variety of antioxidant-rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables, turmeric, and mugwort. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to better health and longevity.
Moderate Protein Intake: While the diet includes some fish and occasional pork, the primary sources of protein are plant-based, such as tofu and legumes.
Healthy Fats: The diet includes healthy fats from sources like soy products and seaweed, which are beneficial for heart health.
Lifestyle Factors
Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is a significant part of Okinawan life. Many Okinawans engage in farming, gardening, and traditional martial arts, which help maintain physical fitness2.
Social Connections: Strong social networks and community bonds are crucial in Okinawan culture, providing emotional support and reducing stress.
Mindful Eating: The practice of “Hara Hachi Bu,” which means eating until you are 80% full, helps prevent overeating and promotes better digestion.
Health Benefits and Longevity
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: The Okinawan diet is associated with lower rates of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The high intake of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats contributes to these benefits.
Longevity: Okinawans have one of the highest life expectancies in the world. For every 100,000 inhabitants, Okinawa has 68 centenarians, which is more than three times the number found in the US population of the same size.
Healthy Aging: The combination of a nutrient-dense diet, physical activity, and strong social ties helps Okinawans maintain their health and independence well into old age.
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In Taiwan, the Buddhist plant-based diet is deeply rooted in religious and cultural practices. Here’s an overview of this diet and the reasons behind the choice of veganism:
Buddhist Plant-Based Diet in Taiwan
Dietary Practices:
Vegetarian and Vegan Foods: Many Buddhists in Taiwan follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, avoiding meat and often dairy. Traditional dishes are adapted to be plant-based, using ingredients like tofu, mushrooms, and various vegetables.
Avoidance of Pungent Ingredients: Some Buddhists also avoid five pungent vegetables (garlic, onion, chives, scallions, and leeks) as they are believed to stimulate the senses and disrupt meditation.
Culinary Adaptations:
Mock Meats: Taiwan has a rich tradition of creating mock meats from soy, wheat gluten, and mushrooms. These are used to replicate the texture and flavor of meat in traditional dishes
Innovative Vegan Cuisine: Modern chefs in Taiwan are reinventing classic Taiwanese dishes to be vegan, making plant-based versions of popular foods like dumplings, hot pot, and even desserts.
Reasons for Choosing Veganism
Religious Beliefs:
Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Central to Buddhist teachings is the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence. This extends to all living beings, leading many Buddhists to adopt a vegan diet to avoid causing harm to animals.
Spiritual Purity: Consuming a plant-based diet is believed to help maintain spiritual purity and enhance meditation practices. Avoiding animal products is seen as a way to cultivate compassion and mindfulness.
Health Benefits:
Physical Well-being: Many Buddhists believe that a plant-based diet promotes better health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving overall well-being.
Longevity: Similar to other plant-based cultures, the diet is associated with longevity and a lower incidence of health issues.
Environmental Concerns:
Sustainability: A plant-based diet is seen as more sustainable and environmentally friendly. It reduces the ecological footprint by conserving water and land resources.
Cultural Tradition:
Historical Practices:
The tradition of vegetarianism in Buddhism dates back centuries and has been maintained through monastic practices and layperson adherence. This cultural heritage continues to influence dietary choices in Taiwan today.
The Buddhist plant-based diet in Taiwan is a reflection of deep-seated religious beliefs, cultural traditions, and a commitment to health and environmental sustainability.
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The Shaolin monks, renowned for their martial arts prowess and spiritual practices, follow a plant-based diet deeply rooted in their Buddhist beliefs and lifestyle. Here’s an overview of their diet and the reasons behind their choice:
Shaolin Monk Plant-Based Diet
Dietary Practices:
Vegetarian and Vegan Foods: The Shaolin monks primarily consume a vegetarian diet, which includes a variety of grains, vegetables, fruits, beans, and tofu. They avoid meat, fish, and often dairy products.
Simple and Seasonal: Their meals are simple and seasonal, focusing on what is naturally available at different times of the year. This approach aligns with their belief in living harmoniously with nature.
Avoidance of Certain Foods:
Pungent Vegetables: Monks often avoid pungent vegetables like garlic, onions, and leeks, which are believed to stimulate the senses and disrupt meditation.
Alcohol and Stimulants: They also abstain from alcohol and other stimulants to maintain mental clarity and focus.
Reasons for Choosing a Plant-Based Diet
Buddhist Philosophy:
Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Central to Buddhist teachings is the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence. This extends to all living beings, leading monks to avoid consuming animal products to prevent harm.
Spiritual Purity: A plant-based diet is believed to help maintain spiritual purity and enhance meditation practices. Avoiding animal products is seen as a way to cultivate compassion and mindfulness.
Health Benefits:
Physical Well-being: Monks believe that a plant-based diet promotes better health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving overall well-being
Energy and Vitality: Despite the rigorous physical demands of their martial arts training, monks find that a plant-based diet provides sufficient energy and nutrients. They attribute their strength and endurance to the purity and balance of their diet.
Mental Clarity and Focus:
Purification: A vegetarian diet is thought to purify the body and maintain balance within its systems. This purification process is believed to enhance mental clarity and focus, which are essential for their spiritual and martial practices.
Avoiding Negative Energy: By abstaining from meat, monks believe they avoid the negative energy associated with killing animals, which can cloud the mind and impede spiritual growth.
Environmental Harmony:
Sustainability: The plant-based diet aligns with the Taoist teachings incorporated into Shaolin practices, which emphasize living in harmony with nature. This sustainable approach helps preserve the environment and promotes ecological balance.
The Shaolin monks’ plant-based diet is a reflection of their commitment to non-violence, spiritual growth, and overall well-being. It supports their rigorous physical training and enhances their mental and spiritual practices.
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In “Conversations with God: Book 4, Awaken the Species” by Neale Donald Walsch, there is a discussion about advanced extraterrestrial civilizations and their dietary choices. The book suggests that these highly evolved beings often follow plant-based diets. Here are some key points from the book:
Spiritual and Ethical Reasons: Advanced civilizations choose plant-based diets as part of their ethical and spiritual evolution. They believe in non-violence and compassion towards all living beings, which aligns with the principle of ahimsa (non-harming) found in many Earth-based spiritual traditions.
Health and Longevity: These civilizations recognize the health benefits of plant-based diets, which contribute to their longevity and overall well-being. They understand that consuming plant-based foods can lead to better physical health and a longer lifespan.
Higher Consciousness: The book suggests that a plant-based diet supports higher states of consciousness and spiritual awareness. By consuming foods that are closer to their natural state, these beings maintain a clearer and more focused mind, which aids in their spiritual practices.
These points reflect the broader themes in “Conversations with God” about living in harmony with oneself, others, and the environment. The idea is that as civilizations evolve, they naturally gravitate towards choices that promote peace, health, and sustainability.