Broccoli Rising, Hope, Change, and Resolve
Broccoli Rising, Hope, Change, and Resolve
Did you make any New Year’s resolutions? You’re not alone. January offers the opportunity for fresh beginnings.
Embrace veganism with Veganuary.
Embrace sobriety with Dry January or explore dialing down the drinks with Damp January — a good idea that might benefit from a better name.
Start a new wellness program. Kick a habit or relationship that no longer serves you.
What’s your goal? I’d be honored if you’d share it with me, but whatever it is, good on you. I’m super proud of you. The impulse to do better, the conviction we can do better, is about the most adorable trait we humans have.
Progress, improvement is possible. We’ve seen it. We’ve lived it. We remake ourselves on a cellular level all the time. The cut or bruise you get today will likely be history next week. For how and how often we regenerate, check out this. I’d rather marvel over our capacity to heal and change, to breathe in the infinite possibility of what might be. Even now, when things look bleak. Especially now.
Full disclosure — optimism isn’t how I’m made. I’m more of a natural worrier, which doesn’t offer much in the way of rip-roaring good times. I’m working to change that — more fun, less fretting. Making the resolution is where it starts. But it’s only the start. Willpower isn’t enough. Telling myself to cheer up, damnit won’t move the needle — unless it moves it backwards, back to worry and the heart-sinking sense I’m doing everything wrong.
Instilling new behavior is rarely a one and done. It’s a process, a journey. I kinda hate the journey, I just want to arrive, but I know this doesn’t work. A few hacks and tricks that do:
Be kind to yourself along the way. Provide positive reinforcement. Reward small victories.
Breathe. Sure, you do it naturally, but doing it mindfully is centering, stress-reducing, and more. My friend Jill Nussinow, aka The Veggie Queen can tell you all the benefits. Better yet, she’ll lead you through a mindful breathing class.
For the love of God, nourish yourself. Give those ever-regenerating cells of yours what they need — plants. Beans, greens, mushrooms, and nuts and seeds are superheroes that support body and boost mood. They’re accessible and delicious whole foods, and believe me, I’m going to be leaning into these bad boys a lot. You can too.
Borani esfanaj — a magical Middle Eastern spinach and vegan yogurt spread
Michelin-starred chef Alexis Gautier makes a walnut, lentil, and mushroom pâté he calls faux gras. I call it delectable.
Pursuit of happiness red lentil soup with spinach, mint and pepita pesto
Mushroom etouffée — a winner for Valentine’s Day
Vegan southern fried cabbage from Healthier Steps' Michelle Blackwood.
You’re wonderful just as you are right this minute, resolution or no resolution. But if you’re looking to do something good for yourself, I’ve got a couple of suggestions:
Make 2024 the year you go plantbased. You’re still in time to take advantage of Veganuary’s daily support and resources, and you’ve got me as a resource any time you want to reach out.
Make 2024 the year you vote. Our voting rights enshrined in our Constitution are on the line. We need everyone to be part of the democratic the process, lest it be taken away from us Not sure if you’re registered to vote? Contact your local department of elections. I have it on good authority it’s a positive human experience. You’ll probably speak with a fellow friendly human who’ll listen, get you answers, and get you registered.
Change, personal or political, takes commitment and action.
I’m toasting your success, because a win for you is a win for all of us.
Speaking of toast, join me and special guest @decantwithplants star Sunny Gandara on Instagram 2pm ET Wednesday, February 7 for a fun lesson in vegan food and wine pairing. It’s just the first of many more of my events, classes, interviews, and happenings ahead in 2024.
Coming up February 10, my friend, vegan pastry goddess Carolina Molea, is offering an online vegan macaron masterclass.
Broccoli Confidential subscribers, your support means everything to me. I want to show my thanks by giving you an extra serving of beans. My ebook, Beans: A Handful of Magic is yours to download for free through January 31. Check your email tomorrow for a special discount code and link.
Not a paid subscriber yet? No problem! Join now to enjoy exclusive content like the free ebook mentioned above.
Not quite ready to upgrade to be a paid subscriber but want to support Broccoli Rising? Adding to my tip jar helps keep me in broccoli and beans. I’m madly grateful. Thanks.
Thanks to you all for reading and subscribing. This issue of Broccoli Rising is free. Please spread the broccoli love and share.
You can also visit SoulfulVegan.com to find more recipes and connect with me online at YouTube, Instagram, Twitter and Substack Notes.