"Food Bullies"

Featuring:

Fully Raw Kristina!

After going vegan/vegetarian a few months ago I received much backlash from not only friends, but also family over the matter. As confusing and hurtful as it has been, I am beginning to understand why they have acted out. 

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For the past few years I have maintained a diet that mainly consists of fruits and vegetables. Occasionally I would have some chicken or turkey meat, and had refrained from eating beef altogether... Many people knew this about me. Some would even call me a vegetarian! (I would kindly inform them that I was not, but had considered it.)

Since telling people about my lifestyle choice of going 'Raw Till 4,' I have surprisingly been criticized and hit with a handful of negativity. Why? Well I wasn't quite sure to be honest!  Before --when I was not a full-on vegetarian-- everyone seemed very accepting of my lifestyle and food choices. For me, it was a subtle step forward to inform friends, co-workers and family members that I had made a choice to stop consuming animal products. But for everyone else this was not a very subtle transition! Until I saw this video by the AUM-azing Kristina Carrillo-Bucaram (aka Fully Raw Kristina), I had not been able to completely cope with the reactions I have been receiving. Thank you for this video Kristina!!!

Here are some important messages I took from this video:

• Have confidence in what you are doing

• Communicate

• Be the best version of you that you can be!

• Show acceptance 

• Love yourself, show compassion!

• Speak kindly -- to others and yourself

• Practice patience . . .    *ommm*

• Live as an inspiration always

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No matter what lifestyle you choose to lead, do it with an open mind and kindness in your heart friends. We are all very different and unique in our own beautiful ways, and hopefully we all begin to see that! 

Realization

Although one might be comfortable financially and/or physically, it does not meant that they should begin to neglect themselves psychologically.

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Many of us work full-time jobs. That means many hours either standing on our feet or sitting down. Though it may not be as strenuous as a workout, those long workdays can often be quite exhausting… both mentally and physically. Despite the fatigue, we should not forget to take care of ourselves. Take a moment to close our eyes, calm our mind and breathe. Whether it is five minutes or an hour, this time we take out of our busy schedule to help ourselves is vital to our health and well-being. We owe it to ourselves!

This past month has been a stressful one. A handful of events, long workdays, and many trips out of town have taken a toll on me. My realization today, however, is not entirely attributed from all of the hustle and bustle... It comes from my lack of living in the present moment. From neglecting my inner self for too long. My outer self, physically, is being taking care of every day. But I cannot seem to give myself a few moments from each day to reflect inward. That is going to change today!

I vow to take at least 15 minutes out of each day to act consciously and be present. With each breath I will do my best to unwind and let the stresses of daily life float out of my mind and simply relax.

Will you make this vow with me?

Goodness, Gracious

What Are Y O U Grateful For?

Everyday we are faced with stressful situations, it is inevitable in world we live in. Sometimes just stepping outside can feel like a challenge... even though it is truly a blessing to be able to walk out of the door in the first place. Why are we so fearful? What is there to worry about? Yes, a majority of us have "bills to pay and mouths to feed" as the saying goes -- but should that Really leave us exhausted, dissatisfied and grumpy? These are feelings that I know many of us are experiencing on a day-to-day basis, but have no business succumbing to continuously! Can we make a positive change, for our health, together? I am willing if you are!

Now I have already been attempting to regulate this practice, and I will be honest... it IS easier said than done... But PLEASE do not be discouraged!! Meaningful, important and precious things take time, energy and some good old fashioned TLC to achieve an overall vision. If you want R E A L results, then you must put forth the effort to make your dream a REALity. 

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It all starts with some positive self talk, self assurance, and saying (to yourself) what you are thankful for. Telling yourself that you are a beautiful creation of the universe, thinking to yourself you 'can accomplish' whatever you set your mind to, and reminding yourself of what you are grateful for are wonderful rituals that will set you up for happiness and success. I speak from experience! These things should be practiced daily, and with a deep and genuine appreciation. In the beginning, if you are unable to genuinely think and/or say such things to yourself-- FAKE IT! Eventually you Will start believing what you have been telling yourself!! (Especially if you are repeating your proverbs often.) Gratitude is a key in understanding and accepting not only yourself, but the world around you. No one and nothing matters more than your own opinion and your own self worth. Make it count! For yourself! Stand out in the crowded waves of conformity! Love the R E A L you! It does get easier when you practice positive self talk and gratitude. The more you do these things- the better you will feel and the better the world around you will be.

~Namaste friends~

I am thankful for all of you!