In this episode, Krystal and Nikita explore the intersection of Ayurveda and vegan cuisine, discussing Nikita's unique upbringing in a yoga and Ayurveda-focused household. They delve into the journey of discovering Ayurveda, its influence on dietary choices, and the importance of mindful eating. The discussion highlights the significance of understanding digestion, the six tastes, and how food can serve as medicine, emphasizing a holistic approach to nutrition that respects individual needs and seasonal changes. In this conversation, Nikita and Krystal explore the intersection of food, health, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of whole foods, the impact of diet culture, and the role of nutrition in healing. They discuss the significance of mindful eating, the challenges of processed vegan foods, and the benefits of cooking from scratch. The conversation also touches on the importance of community in the wellness space and offers practical advice for retreat leaders looking to incorporate healthier food options. ππ’π‘π‘πππ§ πͺππ§π π₯ππ§π₯πππ§ ππ¨πππππ₯ https://www.instagram.com/retreatbuilderhq/ https://facebook.com/retreatbuilderhq https://www.tiktok.com/@retreatbuilder πππ’π¨π§ π‘ππππ§π Vegan-Wise is on a mission to revolutionize culinary culture by championing sustainable plant-based living. Founded by Chef Nikita Leys, who brings 7 years of holistic nutrition expertise, Vegan-Wise offers catering, recipe/menu development, consulting, and cooking classes. Prioritizing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, Nikita crafts plant-based dishes that delight taste buds and nourish the body. Through mindful consumption and eco-friendly practices, Vegan-Wise inspires a global shift toward a more sustainable culinary future. ππ’π‘π‘πππ§ πͺππ§π π‘ππππ§π https://www.retreatbuilder.com/listings/e65e9344-cf1d-4bb9-829d-9fbc0813f0d5 This episode is brought to you by RetreatBuilder. Join us β https://www.retreatbuilder.com/get-verified ππππ£π§ππ₯π¦ 00:00 Growing Up with Ayurveda and Yoga 03:03 The Journey to Discovering Ayurveda 05:56 Ayurveda's Influence on Vegan Cuisine 09:08 Food as Medicine: The Ayurvedic Approach 11:53 Understanding Digestion and the Six Tastes 14:48 Mindful Eating and the Role of Soup 29:40 The Art of Eating and Digestion 31:11 Food for Meditation and Retreats 34:35 The Impact of Diet Culture 35:34 Nutrition in Cancer Treatment 40:10 Processed Vegan Foods vs. Whole Foods 45:41 Empowering Cooking Skills 49:11 The Benefits of Fermentation 51:29 The Connection Between Touch and Nutrition 55:20 Advice for Retreat Leaders