Labeling yourself can be a sticky situation. With labels comes high standards and consequences if you accidently, or purposely, steer off course. I see so many individuals get so caught up in the label making – I am this, I am that. But being truthful and honest about what you label yourself is the key. As well as what you believe in.
I try very hard to not label myself as a vegan or vegetarian. If people ask me about my eating styles I say “I eat vegan” because… well… I’m not perfect. 99% of the food I consume follows this basic guideline – eating plant based food. However, am I completely strict on this? No. Why? Well, because I feel there are times when rules can be bent. It’s a choice I can make as long as the situation feels comfortable.
I listen to what my body tells me. I don’t eat like a typical American eating a typical Western diet. I am perfectly fine with having a smoothie for dinner, or a huge bowl of raw veggies for lunch. It’s about satisfying your body and feeding it with the right fuel for your individual and unique way of life.
Do I crave junk food? You bet! I have a HUGE sweet tooth and if I am not careful it can start to take control and take over me. Junk food is highly addicting. There are many ingredients, most of them un natural ingredients, that act as drugs to our bodies. Sending these little moments of bliss to our brains that we start to crave and develop into habits and thus forms an addiction. I enjoy chocolate just like the next person but I don’t let it control me. I control it by eating a very high percentage of plants and grains. But this has taken a lot of training. It’s a habit for me to shop in the produce section and bulk food section at the market. I rarely skim the middle isles unless there is a specific item on my list. I never set foot in the meat department because I have no need for meat in my diet. I will occasionally by a carton of Organic, Free Range eggs and a few dairy items for Jordan but for the most part I buy fresh produce.
I am not joking when I say diets do not work. You need to change your eating habits for life. It takes time, effort but with time you will start to learn new ways and love the fact you are eating fresh, whole foods. And cooking becomes enjoyable again! Mixing fresh ingredients and blending spices to create the perfect meal is so rewarding!
Now, there are a few things I AM:
I am a proud mom!
I am a Daughter and Grand Daughter who is loved.
I am an artist.
I am a unique individual that has developed into her own person and loves her quirky ways.
I am a coffee drinker… not going to stop and you cant make me!
I am an introvert… too much at times.
I am determined, stubborn and sometimes thickheaded.
But I all want in life is happiness, love and respect.
What do you want in life? And most importantly, what are YOU?
The Clean Eating Mama 