As a yoga practitioner, it might seem like many of the people around you are vegan, or at least vegetarian. Yogis often talk about how avoiding animal products is part of practicing ahimsa or about how eating a plant-based diet makes them feel more energetic, less bloated, and just all-around healthier. For frequent meat-eaters, though, giving up animal products can seem intimidating. But if you’re curious about transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, these tips will make it much more accessible.

Like most things in life, it will be a lot easier to transition to a vegan diet if you know why you’re doing it. Educate yourself on the health effects of consuming animal products. Read about the meat and dairy industries to understand how the animals are treated. Learn about the environmental impacts of these industries and the ethics they employ. The more you understand your reasons for adopting a vegan diet, the more motivated you’ll be to make the transition.

Many people believe that a vegan diet is inherently unhealthy, which is just a stereotype – but it gets credence from the many vegans who subsist solely on packaged food in the name of avoiding animal products. Eliminating foods that are a major source of important nutrients – like protein, iron, and B vitamins – is a big change, and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. Doing some research on vegan sources of these nutrients will equip you to eat a balanced diet. Plus, it’ll give you the peace the mind that you’re making a healthy change. If you’re ready to make a serious commitment to your health after you’ve finished your research, and whether or not you’ve decided to go Vegan, join us on one of our Signature Yoga Vacations right here in paradise to learn even more about just what your body, mind, and spirit need for optimal function and enjoyment!

People worry that vegan food is not only unhealthy but also just not very tasty. Fortunately, flavorful fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, and oils can be combined to make delicious meat-free dishes. Browse vegan cookbooks or food blogs, pin delicious-looking recipes on Pinterest, or consider going on vegan retreats. You’ll discover a whole mouth-watering world of plant-based food that will get you excited about forgoing animal products.

Of course, the best way to find foods you love is by getting to work in the kitchen. Don’t just collect vegan recipes – start making them! Challenge yourself to cook a certain number of new recipes per week, and keep mixing it up. Try using different protein sources or new vegetables, and try cooking them in different ways. You might not have a taste for every vegan recipe you make, but if you keep experimenting, you’ll find dishes you love. We’ve got some delicious vegan recipes on our blog that you can enjoy making yourself, including these Chinese Dumplings, a tasty Raw Chocolate Cheesecake or our Detoxifying Super Green Soup!