Five Keys to Maintaining a Plant-Based Lifestyle

Making health-conscious food choices and creating a healthy, plant-based lifestyle can be a challenge in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world. However, over the last twenty years, we’ve found five keys to establishing, and more importantly maintaining, proper habits to achieve optimal health.

The new year is a perfect opportunity to clear out any old baggage and start with a clean slate, so let’s jump in!

1) Set a clear intention with clearly defined “why’s.”

Never underestimate the power of the written word when it comes to achieving your goals. Writing down your intentions creates the needed space to manifest your desires. Once you’re done reading this article, take a few minutes and consciously write out what you’d like to accomplish this year.

Just as important as clarifying your intention is writing down your “whys.” Why is this important to you? For some people, it’s after a visit to a doctor or healthcare professional who recommends a change. For others, a plant-based lifestyle is essential for social and ecological reasons. And for others, it’s because they know it’s time to get healthy. Get clear in your mind and then commit your goals to paper.

2) Identify the resources you’ll need.

Who are the people you can surround yourself with to learn from, share successes, and rely on for accountability? Often, our students explain that an unexpected benefit of Attending Living Light is the tremendous sense of camaraderie they develop with fellow students. The power of community is like no other. Find like-minded people and organizations that can support you in your efforts.

Online resources can be excellent, but where possible make it a point to show up in person with others, such as a yoga class, a dance class, or a culinary class. Surround yourself with others who are working toward similar ends.

In addition to people, what are the tools or programs you’ll need to hit your goals? There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. Identify the recipes, exercise routines, and spiritual practices that resonate with you so you can put them to work.

3) Write out an easy to follow plan and routine.

Once you clarify your intentions and identify the people and resources you’ll need, write down a weekly plan.

Don’t dive too fast. In other words, if you’re looking to transition from a traditional western diet to plant-based don’t try to do it all right away. It’s not necessary to throw away all of your old habits as you begin this journey. For the first month, try a 25% plant-based diet. Then next month bump it up to 50%, the next month 75% and so on. Create gradual change and build upon small victories. This approach also applies to your household. It’s not necessary to try and convince your spouse or your kids or your roommate to come along with you if they aren’t willing. BE the change and others will follow.

We have a variety of delicious, healthy, and exciting recipes you can create in your own home. We also have in-person-training and workshops you can utilize.

4) Celebrate successes and honor the inevitable setbacks.

You’re reading this because you want to improve your lifestyle. You’re not looking for a fad diet or the latest and greatest exercise equipment. You want to achieve and maintain optimal health so you can live life to its fullest. With that kind of intent, you can view your journey from a broader perspective, so you don’t get too high on the highs nor too low on the lows.

That said when things go well, and you’re flying high, be sure to share those short-term victories with others. Share in social media and with your support people, don’t hold it in. When you have a great day or story to tell, share it.

The same holds for the rough days. There will be times that are more difficult than others. That’s ok and to be expected. Don’t dwell on it but rather honor the process. Be kind to yourself. You’re not alone.

5) Remember you’re creating a tipping point of consciousness.

As human beings, we’re wired to be a part of something that’s bigger than ourselves. We’re not separate from each other or the earth. We live in a time of great transformation where we’re re-realizing this connection, and we’re beginning to make decisions based on this reality.

Therefore your story is important. By sharing your intentions, your successes and failures, and your experiences – you’re bringing others up with you. Your actions inspire and encourage others which can create a ripple effect of positive change.

At Living Light, we’re committed to providing resources to assist you along your journey. Come back to the website often for recipes, tips, and inspiration. And even better join us for a culinary class or workshop.

Utilize these five keys and you’ll be well on your way to maintaining a plant-based lifestyle. Best of luck on your path to wellness and prosperity.