Community

Introduction

One of the best ways to enhance your experience as you transition into a raw food lifestyle and to help you stay on track is to join a community of like-minded people. Iin most cases, when you make the decision to go raw, these communities will not appear before you out of thin air. It will require some time and searching on your part, but it’s definitely guaranteed to pay off in the long run.

But I’m the First!

In many situations, you may be the first raw food enthusiast in your family, in your school, in your office, or in your circle of friends. You may have several questions, like “how do I tell people about my new lifestyle decision?” and “will they understand what I am trying to do?” We say, don’t worry so much about what others think of you. Some will accept it, and others will not understand right away. Focus more on what called you to this lifestyle in the purpose, and the goals you are hoping to achieve. Just as you have friends you spend time with because you share a love for movies, or the “for fun” kickball team you’re a part of to meet new people, you will need to appraoch your raw food lifestyle in the same way. So, let’s get started.

There are two types of networks we want to call your attention to, the ones that meet up locally, and the amazing communities you’ll find online.

Local Raw Communities

Oh, you will be surprised about the wonders an internet search can provide. Typing in “raw food” and your location can provide you with some great results for starters. To take it a bit further, consider finding some social networking sites. These sites allow for small groups to form (locally) based on common interests shared by group members. For example, www.meetup.com is an excellent resource for finding local groups near you that share an interest in raw foods. They may do potluck dinners locally or meet up at local raw vegan restaurants. Nothing beats being around like-minded people, especially if you can find some seasoned raw enthusiasts, or some people who are on the same level as you (so you can experience the journey together).

If you cannot find a raw food group locally, consider using the same means listed above for local vegan groups. You will be surprised how many vegans and vegetarians have an interest in raw foods. Once you start becoming more involved with the group, you can very easily suggest that the next meet up be at a raw vegan restaurant, a juice bar, or at someone’s house for a raw potluck dinner. For further support, consider joining an animal activist group. Some are more active than others so you’ll have to do your research. But, I would recommend one that has monthly meetings, and offers lectures/seminars on healthy eating too.

Beyond the aforementioned options, if you are still coming up empty handed, we strongly recommend joining an online community for raw food enthusiasts and holistic healing.

Online Communities

The power of online communities and their growing popularity echoes the lyrics to the song “It’s A Small World Afterall.” There are several raw online communities that offer the fellowship and support you are looking for when you start your journey to health and wellness. Through these communities you will be able to ask questions and participate in forum discussions. Surely if you are unsure about a particular aspect of the raw food lifestyle, someone else, somewhere, has had the same question, comment or concern. Being a part of these online networks allows you ask your questions (remember no raw food question is unworthy of an answer) in a free and friendly environment and actually facitate conversations about what’s on your mind.

In addition to this wonderful benefit, within some of these social networks, you will find sub-groups that have formed based on common interest (such as, for example, “green smoothie lovers,” and “20-30 year old raw enthusiasts”). You will also find sub-groups that form based on location! Do you see where we are going with this? There may be some raw food enthusiasts out there in your area that you can gain access to online, and then maybe talk about developing a group that meets monthly. With some of these online networks, you can search for members by location.

Where there is a will, there is a way. Here are a couple online communities we think you should check out to get you started. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. We are happy to walk this road with you.

MyCrazySexyLife: This is an amazing wellness community started by Kris Carr. MyCrazySexyLife is a vibrant playground for kind warriors who believe its hip to get healthy, sexy to be spiritual, and noble to protect mother earth. Great community for support of all kinds when it comes to living holistically. Click here to check them out and join.

GiveItToMeRaw: This raw food community was started by Dhrumhil Purahit. Also known as GI2MR, is an online community for people who are passionate about harnessing the power of raw food and holistic living. We recommend this community for support, authenticity and all around positive vibes. Click here to check them out and join.

RawFu: This raw food community was created by Bunny Berry. Her story is amazing and her journey has led her to hosting 100 day raw food challenges, were her online community provides support and guidance. If you’re a newbie, this might be a good way to get started.  Click here to check them out and join.

One Final Thought

Please remember your experience in an online community is only as good as you make it. You are responsible for learning the rules and guidelines of these communities, and for staying active. Joining a community and then never logging on again to check them out is not the way to go. Join, then as time allows take a few minutes to become familiar with the group, to search for members, add friends, and read/participate in the discussions. And for a daily dose of positive energy, definitely join us on Twitter.

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