Transitioning to a plant-based diet felt like a natural progression for me. From an early age, certain foods put me off, yet I still mostly ate what was put in front of me. My mother worked with what she knew and with what was available. Cheese sauce was a staple, seemingly covering everything to tempt my brothers and I to eat. It was the 70s, a time when food wasn’t subjected to the intense scrutiny it is today. Fruit seemed minimal and vegetables often came from cans, with dessert being used as a bribe.
As I grew older and began making my own dietary choices, I mostly stuck to what I knew, minus the cheese sauce. However, there came a time when I began listening to my own body. Fish was an easy exclusion—I never cared for it. Red meat followed, as it never excited me. My curiosity for fruits and vegetables grew, while my interest in chicken waned. I became repulsed by the process of preparing chicken, leading me to the decision to stop eating it altogether.
During this period, I embarked on an inward journey of self-discovery that led me to yoga teacher training. It was during this time that I embraced vegetarianism. Eventually, I realized dairy products caused significant discomfort, prompting me to eliminate them from my diet as well.
I was undergoing profound internal changes—spiritually, energetically, mentally, and emotionally—which I believe influenced how my body received and processed food.
I chose to stop consuming animals and their by-products because it made sense to me. My choices became intrinsic, much like how one might suddenly lose the desire for a favorite snack after years of consumption. This is how I felt about animal products.
I am not here to persuade anyone to “be like me.” However, I do believe it is crucial for us to listen to our bodies, as we are all different. Recently, I traveled with a woman who adhered strictly to a meat-based diet—the rawer, the better. She believed this provided her with optimal health and vitality. Understanding her beliefs was fascinating and served as a reminder of the powerful influence of our convictions. What you believe, whether consciously or unconsciously, shapes your reality.
So what does any of this have to do with traveling? I’m glad you asked.
As I traveled more extensively to various countries, I was introduced to diverse cultures through their cuisines. This isn’t a novel concept—people have been exploring cultures through food for ages. However, for me, food took on a new significance. Food embodies history, availability, and the stories of a people. A country's food offerings depend on its agricultural capacity, the perceptions of its people, and their culinary traditions. There can be a sense of pride attached to a particular dish, serving as a link to one's ancestors. Additionally, one can observe how countries influence each other through trade and migration. These discoveries deepened my gratitude for the abundance available in the US.
I have learned to let go of expectations regarding food while traveling. Why? Because having no expectations leads to wonderful discoveries and connections. It’s an adventure in itself. Food is a gateway to understanding someone and their culture. It’s fascinating that, even without asking, people I travel with often go out of their way to help or suggest food options for me. I am always grateful for their kindness and compassion.
One memorable experience was in France. After a busy day, I was tired, and our group sat down for dinner. I ordered my meal without paying much attention to the details. When the dish arrived, I realized it contained dairy, which I didn't want to eat. I was content to forgo the meal, as there had been appetizers and I was more tired than hungry. However, my companions decided to advocate for me, complaining to the waiter and eventually speaking with the chef. It turned into quite a scene. As I sank deeper into my chair, trying to remain unnoticed, the passionate chef emerged, vehemently rejecting a new order and calling me a “vegan bitch,” all in the beautiful cadence of French. At the time, I wanted to disappear, but in hindsight, I find it humorous. It was a passionate encounter—how many people can say they’ve been cursed out by a French chef?
I have traveled to many countries and have never gone hungry. There is always food available to meet one’s needs; it simply requires a bit of exploration. Many countries naturally have plant-based dishes.
Traveling with others or tour guides who understand dietary needs can be helpful. However, I learned that there can be confusion about what being plant-based entails and that not everyone is familiar with or welcoming of this lifestyle.
Through my experiences, I believe it can be more challenging to travel with gluten intolerances. However, I have traveled with individuals who cannot eat gluten in the US but found no issue eating a croissant in France. This underscores the differences in food systems, revealing issues in the US and the more organic practices in other parts of the world.
We attach memories to food. Do you have certain occasions linked to specific foods? Perhaps there are always certain dishes at particular gatherings? Food connects us to people and places. I recall walking down a mountain in Peru after heavy rain and being greeted by women offering hot potatoes and a warm drink—pure bliss.
My suggestion is to not let anything restrict you from exploring your life and the world around you. There is always a way. Spirit continually reminds us that our inner pull exists for a reason. It wouldn’t be there otherwise. And even if you can't see it, you are always supported in this.
I invite you to travel and explore with me through one on one sessions, classes and with Sacred Mystical Travel tours.
Please email me at susan@susanhharris.com or text 858-859-1177 to book a session or inquire about class and travel opportunities.
May you feel the love and light that you are and that surrounds you always.
In love,
Susan