Nourishing the soul: Rest and the ART of well-being
exploring the crucial role of rest for holistic health
Holistic Connection
As a holistic nutritionist, I'm passionate about the intricate dance between what we consume and how we rejuvenate our bodies. The synergy of vegan nutrition and all other aspects of healthy living forms the cornerstone of a holistic approach. I see rest, aligning your values, raising your spiritual energy and speaking your truth as the keys to health, creating a harmonious balance that nurtures the soul.
Power of Vegan Nutrition
Vegan nutrition isn't just a diet; it's a lifestyle that aligns with holistic health, ethical, and environmental principles. Recent studies (see below) highlight the benefits of a plant-based diet, from supporting gut health to fortifying the immune system. A raw vegan institute performed a study asking participants to score their perceived stress when they arrived at their retreat (1-3 week stay) and 12 weeks following their stay. They were also measured for a variety of inflammatory markers. Following their stay, anxiety decreased, perceived stress decreased and overall quality of life improved, based on their perception. There was no remarkable change in inflammatory markers, and I would argue that we can’t derive any conclusion from their bloodwork as we’re not provided information on the participants’ diets before or after, solely during the study.
The point is, that they were provided with rest and healthy caregiving. The diet was there to help them feel clean, light and whole again.
All year round, celebrate the goodness that plant-based living brings to our plates and our overall well-being. But most importantly, get rest and proper sleep. This is the foundation of all healthy nutrition.
Restorative Practices for the Soul
Beyond the realm of nutrition, the art of well-being embraces restorative practices. Mindful eating and restorative yoga, as revealed in scientific studies (see sources below), contribute to mental and emotional wellness. When coupled with a vegan lifestyle, these practices amplify their positive impact on the soul.
The Science of Sleep
Quality sleep is a vital component of good health. Adopting a vegan lifestyle, making time for restoration in your life, and completing a holistic connection with oneself may contribute to improved sleep patterns. The interplay between plant-based nutrition and rest sets the stage for restful nights, promoting overall well-being during the holiday season and beyond.
Mindful Living Through the Holidays
As we navigate the holiday festivities, let's infuse mindfulness into our celebrations. Explore the joy of plant-based holiday recipes that not only tantalize taste buds but also nourish the body and soul. Embracing a mindful approach to both food choices and self-care practices fosters a deeper connection to well-being.
Here’s a few of my favourites this holiday season:
Grinch-Approved Peppermint Smoothie
Vinarterta Holiday Cookies (Vinarterat is an Icelandic-Canadian tradition)
Holistic Well-being Beyond the Holidays
The lessons of holistic well-being extend far beyond the holiday season. By integrating vegan nutrition and rest into our daily lives, we cultivate a sustainable foundation for health and happiness. Let's carry the spirit of nourishment into the new year and embrace a lifestyle that honours our bodies, the animals, and the planet.
Empowering Change Through Plant-Based Living
As we conclude the year, let's recognize the power we hold in shaping our well-being and the world around us. Every plant-based choice is a step towards a healthier, more compassionate future. Embrace the journey, nurture your soul, and savour the joy of holistic living.
sources:
Kahleova, H., Rembert, E., Alwarith, J., Yonas, W. N., Tura, A., Holubkov, R., Agnello, M., Chutkan, R., & Barnard, N. D. (2020). Effects of a low-fat vegan diet on gut Microbiota in overweight individuals and relationships with body weight, body composition, and insulin sensitivity. A randomized clinical trial. Nutrients, 12(10), 2917. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12102917
Krause-Sorio, B., Siddarth, P., Kilpatrick, L., Milillo, M. M., Aguilar-Faustino, Y., Ercoli, L., Narr, K. L., Khalsa, D. S., & Lavretsky, H. (2022). Yoga prevents gray matter atrophy in women at risk for Alzheimer’s disease: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease: JAD, 87(2), 569–581. https://doi.org/10.3233/jad-215563
Le, L., & Sabaté, J. (2014). Beyond meatless, the health effects of vegan diets: Findings from the Adventist cohorts. Nutrients, 6(6), 2131–2147. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu6062131
Link, L. B., Hussaini, N. S., & Jacobson, J. S. (2008). Change in quality of life and immune markers after a stay at a raw vegan institute: A pilot study. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 16(3), 124–130. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2008.02.004
Papatriantafyllou, E., Efthymiou, D., Zoumbaneas, E., Popescu, C. A., & Vassilopoulou, E. (2022). Sleep deprivation: Effects on weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Nutrients, 14(8), 1549. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14081549
Sharpe, E., Lacombe, A., Butler, M. P., Hanes, D., & Bradley, R. (2021). A closer look at Yoga Nidra: Sleep lab protocol. International Journal of Yoga Therapy, 31(1). https://doi.org/10.17761/2021-d-20-00004
(N.d.). Clinicalnutritionjournal.com. Retrieved December 15, 2023, from https://www.clinicalnutritionjournal.com/article/S0261-5614(20)30059-5/fulltext
