Raw Update #1

I didn’t think I was going to write about this, because I kind of hate when people talk about their diets. But my experiments in Raw eating have definitely crossed over into Life Beyond Food, so here goes.

(yes, that’s some kind of electrical meter in the bottom corner, on our kitchen counter next to the produce–hey at least it matches the color scheme!)

Raw Food became this minor brain-obsession of mine for most of December. I knew I was a goner when I ended up ordering like eighty-jillion books about raw foods off of Amazon (my surest sign of infatuation.)

Eating Raw just makes sense to me, in an instinctual way. A way that other diets or food philosophies or what-have-you never have.

Of course, while I buy in spiritually and intellectually, I still didn’t think I could actually do it.

My main problem was that I am an insanely picky eater. I don’t really enjoy slimy things, weird textures, or cold things. (Basically, hi, I like bread and cheese. Preferably together, with a little bit of red sauce.)

I figured I would last about twenty minutes. But instead–to my great surprise–I began a gradual shift toward eating mainly raw foods.

I can’t even believe I’m going to write this but for the past two months I have been eating raw for most of the day, and many days even including dinner.

How is this happening?

First, all hail the green smoothie! Seriously, this is like the most magical food. (Green for Life by Victoria Boutenko is an amazing book about how to use green smoothies as a gateway drug to raw foods.)

Second, I really appreciate the approach Natalia Rose advocates in The Raw Food Detox Diet. Basically, her philosophy is don’t sweat the small stuff, and above all don’t push yourself too far too fast. (Btw while I do recommend the book for the great information, I have issues with some of her language, including multiple references to the concept of a “perfect” body.)

And again with the peace and calmness!

I’m finding it everywhere. The spikes in my mood (and perception of myself and my abilities) are smoothing out. I’m finding ease where there used to be struggle. I’m holding things loosely. It turns out the cliffs of insanity are just cute little stage sets, I can’t believe I ever thought they could be real.

Partly it’s because of my sailboat. But another part of it is because I feel deeply nourished for the first time in years, free from jangly toxins, and that gives me a sense of calmness in my entire body.

So yeah. I’m not making any proclamations or pronouncements. Just recording my experience, here at the beginning. I’ve dipped my toe in, and the water feels nice.

I just might take a swim.

(Also, how pretty is this salad? Fluorescent orange (red pepper) dressing recipe courtesy of Nathalie, the Raw Foods Witch)

Comment Zen: I’d love to hear about your own experiments with finding what works for you, especially if you have experiences with or questions about raw foods. But I really don’t want to debate specific food choices. As we all know, People Vary.