Hi, I’m Maddi! I’m a 26-year-old living in Southern California. My love for health, photography and writing led me to create this blog that you see today.
Living the Vegan Lifestyle
Why vegan? Isn’t it hard? What can vegans eat? Let’s me honest, veganism is more than a diet, it’s a lifestyle. It’s not about food restrictions or limitations. There are so many options to explore as a vegan that fits any preferences. Most vegans define themselves as someone who doesn’t eat animal products or byproducts (aka meat, dairy, eggs, etc). Although this is true, there is much more involved in defining the important role vegans play in the world. The vegan lifestyle represents a fight against animal cruelty, destruction of the environment, and chronic illnesses.
Animals
Unfortunately, most of us are kept in the dark about the reality of factory farming. Long gone are the days of living in harmony with animals because of the opportunity to make money. Our early ancestors have proven that meat is not needed for long and happy lives. Our ecosystem has now become an egosystem where society places a higher value on certain animals despite studies showing high intelligence and significant empathy among all species. Learning this truth along with the cruelty that is involved in the meat and dairy industry was enough for me to go vegan and 9+ years later I’ve never looked back.
Weight Loss
This is a touchy subject because of the prevalence of body image issues today. But, I think it is super important to recognize how the outside of the body reflects what is going on inside. I personally grew up eating fast food and other junk (commonly referred to as the Standard American Diet). As a young dancer the pressures to fit a certain size and a tumultuous relationship that left me feeling helpless soon led to an eating disorder. It took years to learn to love myself and once I focused on balance I found a healthy weight without any calorie restrictions or added exercise. It’s important to realize weight will fluctuate within a lifetime, but it should never happen rapidly or through extreme measures. Take care of yourself and a healthy weight will follow.
Health
Most people suffer from chronic illnesses whether they realize it or not. My own personal struggles have been with acne, digestive issues, anxiety and depression. All of which have drastically improved! Only through education and personal exploration can we discover the true healing power of food which is why I have chosen to primarily advocate for better health. Year by year my knowledge expands, which has led me to choose a diet that limits gluten, oil and processed foods that contain harmful additives and preservatives. I prefer to make most everything in my own kitchen, but I’m not perfect. Balance is everything. I hope that by telling my story and sharing my recipes I can help others with similar issues live a happier and healthier lifestyle too!
Environment
I truly believe that it is humanity’s responsibility to care for planet Earth. Not only have I diminished my carbon footprint by not supporting animal agriculture, but I have significantly decreased the amount of waste I produce. In an effort to combat the huge environmental impact made by fast fashion I swap clothes clothes with friends, regularly frequent local thrift stores and of course, donate what I can. I also minimized my plastic use tremendously, recycle when possible, compost religiously, and hit up my local zero waste store when needed for all the best goodies. While my habits are not perfect I strive to be better each and every day to preserve this beautiful place that we call home. Through my blog, I hope to encourage readers to adopt some of the same habits to help out Mother Earth.
What else if there to know about me?
Well I definitely don’t think is super interesting, but here are some other fun facts about me
- I’m Iranian-American
- I used to be a competitive dancer
- I have a BA in Journalism
- Despite my baking obsession, I love fresh fruit and smoothies
- I’m obsessed with music, mostly R&B
- I’m teaching myself how to sew
- I’m mildly allergic to pine trees
- I have 6 different piercings
- I have two tattoos (one is temporary)
Anything else you want to know? Email me contact@maddimadevegan.com xoxo Maddi
