My Journey to a Healthier Life: Why I Became Vegan and Quit Drinking Alcohol

Living a healthier life is a personal journey filled with choices that can be both challenging and rewarding. In this blog post, I share my personal experience of embracing a vegan lifestyle and bidding farewell to alcohol, highlighting the positive transformations these decisions have brought to my life. If you're on a similar path or considering making changes, I hope my story inspires and empowers you to take that leap towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Discipline and Quitting Habits:

Throughout my life, I've always been a disciplined person when it comes to quitting habits. Once I realize I'm hooked, I find myself turned off from the habit altogether. This determination has led me to successfully quit cigarettes, cigars, and caffeine (soda and coffee) over the years. Quitting tobacco can be tough, but I discovered an alternative that helped me through the process. I turned to hemp flower (CBD) as a substitute to wean off tobacco for good. Not only did it provide a similar release from anxiety, but the calming effects lasted longer compared to smoking tobacco. It's important to note that for individuals who dislike the smell of CBD flower or have allergies, there are other smokable herbs available that can satisfy cravings and promote a sense of calmness. These alternatives can provide a healthier and more natural way to address anxiety and cravings.

Alcohol and Coping Mechanisms:

In 2020, a pivotal moment occurred when my cousin passed away. Having witnessed how close family members and past partners spiraled into alcoholism after similar losses in the past, I made a conscious decision that drinking wasn't an option for me to cope with the pain. Instead, I sought healthier alternatives to relax and unwind. One option that has gained popularity is mocktails. Mocktails offer a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages that can provide a similar sense of relaxation without the buzz. Nowadays, there are even mocktail bars and an array of options available, including CBD-infused mocktails and herbal mocktails. It's worth researching what options are available in your area and keeping an open mind. Remember, it's all about shifting your mindset and finding healthier ways to address your emotional needs.

The Benefits of Quitting Alcohol:

After making the decision to stop drinking, my life underwent a remarkable transformation. The positive effects were evident in every aspect of my being. I experienced a significant boost in productivity, my mental clarity improved, and my overall health took a turn for the better. Letting go of alcohol liberated me from its negative impacts and allowed me to embrace a more vibrant and fulfilling life. Of course, there was an adjustment period, and I faced temptations from friends and family who encouraged me to have "just a little." However, even a sip of wine made me feel awful, reinforcing my commitment to staying alcohol-free. With newfound energy, I became more active and engaged in a variety of activities that didn't involve drinking. There are countless opportunities for enjoyment and fulfillment without relying on alcohol. Embrace this journey and unlock the potential to live a more vibrant, energetic, and fulfilling life.

Transitioning to Veganism:

Although I wasn't a heavy meat eater, I did enjoy the occasional surf and turf and had a strong affinity for seafood. Nevertheless, pasta, fruits, and veggies were always my favorites. Surprisingly, transitioning to a vegan lifestyle wasn't as challenging as I had initially imagined. While I had previously dabbled in the paleo diet, I ultimately found that a vegan diet resonated best with me. With a goal of trying it for a year, I believed that immersing myself in a plant-based diet would deepen my understanding of the benefits of the plants and herbs I consumed as an herbalist.

It's worth noting that depending on your location, finding vegan-friendly restaurants can be difficult, but it's certainly not impossible. During my own transition, I discovered that farmer's markets became a haven for me. These vibrant markets offered a plethora of fresh produce and plant-based ingredients that allowed me to create delicious and satisfying meals. Additionally, I found the Happy Cow app, which served as an invaluable resource in finding vegan-friendly restaurants in my area and even while traveling. (Please note that Happy Cow is not a sponsor, but I found it to be a great source for locating vegan cuisine.)

Discovering the Vegan Journey:

During my first year as a vegan, I encountered a couple of instances where I deviated from my diet and indulged in two large coconut shrimp. However, these moments served as learning experiences, and I soon realized that discovering vegan alternatives to my favorite comfort dishes was much easier than I had anticipated. While not every replacement was a perfect match, experimenting with different ingredients allowed me to perfect recipes that satisfied any cravings from my meat-eating days. Personally, I found mushrooms and chickpeas to be excellent meat substitutes when cooking meals. It's important to remember that the vegan journey is all about trying new things until you find your favorite meat alternative. When it comes to breakfast, I am still on the lookout for a suitable replacement for eggs, although I have found that egg alternatives work well for baking. Pinterest has been an incredible resource for finding new vegan recipes. (Please note that Pinterest is not a sponsor, but I have found it to be a great source of inspiration.)

A Shift in Perspective:

As time went on, I realized that I couldn't go back to my previous eating habits or alcohol consumption. The transformative experience of cleansing my body through a vegan lifestyle has brought about a profound shift in my perspective on life. I've never felt healthier, more energized, and more connected to my body. This journey has inspired me to encourage others to embrace positive changes in their own lives, whether it's through a vegan diet or finding a lifestyle that aligns with their well-being goals. Remember, the key is to find what works best for you and make gradual changes that inspire you to be the best version of yourself.

Embracing Change:

Don't let fear hold you back from making significant changes in your life. Instead of hesitating at the edge of the cliff, take the leap and embrace the unknown. It's in those moments of challenge and uncertainty that we often discover our true potential. If you have health goals in mind, write them down or create a vision board to visualize your journey and hold yourself accountable. Remember, every step you take towards better health is a step towards a more fulfilling and vibrant life. So don't be afraid to challenge yourself and embrace the possibilities that change can bring.

Remember, you deserve to soar and live life to the fullest.

Have you ever considered transitioning to a vegan lifestyle or reducing your alcohol consumption for improved well-being?

• Yes, I've already made the transition and it has positively
• I've thought about it, but haven't taken the leap yet.
• No, I haven't considered it or it's not relevant to me.
• I'm interested in learning more.