Vegetarianism and Massage

October is National Vegetarian Month and many massage therapists use this topic as an opening to discuss diet, exercise and healthy living habits with their patients. People who receive massage on a regular basis are generally in tune with their body's need for proper nutrition and exercise, conversely many prescribe to a vegetarian diet, or at least a partial vegetarian diet. A vegetarian diet can complement any health regimen, and a study done by the prestigious British Medical Association shows that vegetarians, in general, live longer and healthier lives than those who eat meat on a regular basis. The report concluded that vegetarians have a 28% lower risk of dying from heart disease and a 39% lower risk of dying of cancer.

People are going back to basics and many people have chosen to look into alternative medicine and preventive health habits to decrease their chances of disease, increase their feeling of well-being, and to live a healthier and more productive life.When you feel good, you are more focused, and when you are more focused, you are more productive! Becoming a vegetarian has so many optimal health benefits, it's difficult to argue against them! Lower cholesterol, better weight control ability, less pesticides and hormones and steroids in the diet can only benefit your overall health.

Aside from the wonderful health benefits of being a vegetarian, you will realize that you are becoming more aware of your body and what goes into it, and how you are treating it. Vegetarianism also goes hand in hand with an awareness of our natural resources and how we are treating our planet, and the ethical treatment and use of our livestock. Many people who have chosen to become vegetarians also practice regular massage and some type of exercise such as yoga, bicycling, hiking or swimming because they are more aware of their bodies need for healthy living habits and a balanced lifestyle.

Becoming a vegetarian is a life changing decision, but it doesn't need to be a difficult one! Check out www.wholefoods.com for information on National Vegetarian Month as well as ideas for meatless recipes that are easy to incorporate into your diet and budget. For pre-made products that make eating vegetarian much easier go to www.almostvegan.com. Try the one week challenge! Go to www.peta.org/vsk/ for your free vegetarian starter kit and see the difference eating a vegetarian diet makes in your life.

*(1986). vegetarianism. British medical association,

*www.wholefoods.com

*www.almostvegan.com

*www.peta.org/vsk/