Meet Rumyana!
Originally from Bulgaria and now living in Spain, Rumyana is a full-time blogger passionate about sharing her love for vegan cooking through her blog, where she helps others discover the benefits of healthy, plant-based eating. After transitioning to a vegan lifestyle, she found joy in creating nourishing recipes that inspire people to lead healthier lives. When she’s not in the kitchen, Rumyana enjoys long walks, reading, laughing with her friends, and exploring new healthy recipes. Cozy nights watching FRIENDS with a warm cup of tea are her favorite, and as a true lover of winter, she adores the snow and the mountains.
Meatless Movement had the opportunity to chat with her recently.
Someday, she dreams of living in a wooden house nestled in the mountains, surrounded by nature.
Please tell us more about yourself
Let´s savor the flavors of nature together!
Rumyana / vegan recipes
My name is Rumyana, and I am a full-time blogger at Healthy Living Enthusiast
(https://healthylivingenthusiast.com), where I share vegan and plant-based recipes.
Originally from Bulgaria, I now live in Madrid, Spain. My passion for healthy living and sustainable eating started as a personal journey to feel better and live more mindfully. Over time, it blossomed into a blog where I could share my favorite recipes with others who want to eat delicious, nourishing meals while staying conscious of the planet. Through my blog, I aim to inspire others to embrace a plant-based lifestyle in a simple, enjoyable way.
I’ve been vegan for two years now. After moving to Spain, I gained 12 kg very quickly and started experiencing health issues like constant fatigue, headaches, and constipation. I tried various diets, but nothing seemed to help, and I continued to feel sluggish and unwell. Then I watched What the Health on Netflix, and it completely changed my perspective.
The verynext day, I decided to switch to a vegan lifestyle. It took time to adjust, but this way of eating
introduced me to a wide variety of vegetables and fruits I hadn’t explored before. It made my diet much more versatile, nutritious, and, most importantly, healthy. Since going vegan, I feel more energetic and balanced.
Oh yes, I have plenty of stories!
Rumyana / vegan recipes
I still laugh when I think about the reactions I got from waiters when I first started asking for vegan options or requesting to remove certain ingredients from dishes. Their faces were priceless—it was like I was speaking a foreign language!
There were even times when I asked if they had anything plant-based, and they didn’t, so I had to leave the restaurant. It was such a wild experience at first, but I’m happy to see that things are changing. Nowadays, more and more people are going vegan, and it’s not so strange to ask for vegan options at restaurants. It’s great to see the world becoming more accommodating and aware of plant-based lifestyles.
It was definitely challenging in the beginning.
Rumyana / vegan recipes
I heard all kinds of jokes—people would say I needed protein, that humans are meant to eat meat, and some of my friends even laughed, saying I must be trying to live to 100! But over time, things have changed. Even though most of my friends aren’t vegan, they’ve started asking me for advice—like what to eat to feel better or what juice to make in the morning. Some have even tried my recipes, and that makes me feel great, knowing I’m on the right path. It’s rewarding to see how curiosity about plant-based eating is growing, even among those who aren’t vegan.
I feel absolutely great—it’s hands down the best decision I’ve ever made
Rumyana / vegan recipes
Join me on this journey towards a healthier, more compassionate world, one scumptious recipe at time
Rumyana / vegan recipes
Going vegan has transformed not only how I eat, but how I live my life. Plant-based eating is incredibly
mindful; it encourages me to think about the ingredients I use, where my food comes from, and the impact my choices have. Since making the switch, I’ve felt so much healthier, more energized, and overall, just better in my own body.
But it’s not just about how I feel physically—there’s also a deep sense of fulfillment that comes with it. Knowing that I’m helping to save animal lives, reduce my environmental footprint, and contribute to a more sustainable planet is an amazing feeling. It’s empowering to know that my daily choices are making a difference. Being vegan has not only improved my health but also made me feel more connected to the world in a compassionate and responsible way. It’s a lifestyle that’s good for the body, the soul, and the planet, and that’s something I’m really proud of.
I would suggest starting small—maybe try going meatless for one or two weeks to see how
Rumyana / vegan recipes
you feel
It’s important to keep your meals versatile, incorporating a variety of vegetables, fruits, leafy greens, legumes, and seeds. Experiment with plant-based versions of your favorite dishes, and you’ll notice how much lighter and more energized you feel. I also recommend adding a fresh, raw salad to your lunch and dinner for an extra boost of nutrients.
One key tip is to focus on whole foods and avoid processed options as much as possible. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in how you feel, both physically and mentally. Plant-based eating isn’t just about cutting out meat; it’s about nourishing your body with diverse, wholesome foods. And once you experience the benefits, it’s hard to go back.
My absolute favorites are bowls because they allow for a versatile mix of nutritious ingredients, making them both satisfying and wholesome. For the fall season, I love making a Quinoa Bowl with Sweet Potatoes and Kale for my family. I remember the first time I prepared it; the vibrant colors and comforting aroma filled our home, and everyone gathered around the table, excited to dig in. It quickly became a family favorite, perfect for those chilly autumn evenings.
Another cozy favorite is my Thai Coconut Pumpkin Soup, which I often make when the weather turns cool. It brings back memories of snuggling on the couch with a warm bowl of soup while watching a movie with my loved ones. The warm, comforting flavors always make me feel at home.
When it comes to everyday meals, I can never get enough of Chana Masala—it’s such a versatile dish that I could eat it every day! I love how it combines spices and chickpeas, creating a rich flavor profile that never gets old.
For dessert, I prefer to go sugar-free, and one of my top picks is a Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Sugar-Free Banana Bread. I’ll often whip up a batch to share with friends, and it’s always a hit. I remember baking it for a family gathering, and everyone loved it, completely unaware it was guilt-free!
All these meals are not only delicious but nourishing, and you can find the full recipes on my blog, healthylivingenthusiast.com. Sharing these meals with my family and friends is one of my greatest joys.
There are several misconceptions about being vegan or vegetarian that I often encounter
Rumyana / vegan recipes
One common myth is that you can’t get enough protein without eating meat. I explain that there are plenty of plant-based sources of protein, such as legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. In fact, many athletes thrive on plant-based diets, showcasing that it’s entirely possible to meet protein needs without animal products.
Another misconception is that vegan food is bland or boring. I love to share my experiences with the diverse flavors and cuisines available in the plant-based world. I often invite friends to try some of my favorite recipes, highlighting how vibrant and delicious vegan meals can be.
Some people also think that being vegan is expensive, but I educate them on how cooking at home with whole foods can actually save money. I encourage them to shop for seasonal fruits and vegetables and explore local markets for affordable options.
I try to be a resource for those curious about plant-based eating by sharing recipes, tips, and even my own experiences. By fostering open conversations and offering practical advice, I hope to dispel these misconceptions and inspire others to explore the benefits of a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.
To anyone who’s just starting to go meatless, I want to emphasize that this is a wonderful
Rumyana / vegan recipes
step toward improving your overall health and well-being
Transitioning to a plant-based diet can be incredibly rewarding—it’s not just about what you eliminate but also about what you gain. You’ll discover a whole world of flavors, textures, and nutritious ingredients that can make your meals exciting and satisfying.
Start by exploring new fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Experiment with different recipes to find what you enjoy the most, and don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen! It’s important to focus on variety to ensure you’re getting a well- rounded intake of nutrients.
I encourage you to listen to your body and pay attention to how you feel as you make this change. Many people report feeling lighter, more energized, and generally happier after incorporating more plant-based foods into their diets. It’s amazing how the right food can positively impact your mood and energy levels.
Also, remember that it’s okay to take your time and make gradual changes. You don’t have to go all-in right away—start with one meatless meal a day or designate specific days of the week to focus on plant-based eating. Surround yourself with supportive friends or family, and consider joining online communities where you can share your experiences and get inspiration from others.
Ultimately, adopting a meatless lifestyle is not just a diet; it’s a journey toward greater health and happiness. Embrace the process, enjoy discovering new foods, and most importantly, have fun along the way! You’ll be amazed at the positive changes you can make in your life.
I believe that plant-based eating isn´t about restriction, it´s about abundance, variety, and exciting flavor
I remember when my niece and I decided to make our own vegan pizza with veggies, vegan cheese, and a homemade crust. We danced around the kitchen, giggling as we spread sauce and piled on toppings like professional chefs.
After sliding our pizza into the oven, we eagerly waited for the delicious aroma to fill the air. When the timer finally went off, I proudly opened the oven door, but disaster struck! As I turned to show my niece, the pizza slipped from the pan and crashed to the floor, toppings flying everywhere like confetti.
For a moment, we both stared in disbelief, then erupted in laughter. My niece quipped, “Congratulations! We’ve invented pizza deconstructed!” Undeterred, we scooped up what we could and transformed it into mini pizzas on slices of bread instead. As we enjoyed our new creation, we couldn’t stop giggling about our “pizza fail.” From that day on, every time we cooked together, we made it a tradition to jokingly check the oven door, reminding ourselves that sometimes the best memories come from the most unexpected moments.
In conclusion, my journey into veganism has been a transformative experience that has not only improved my health but also deepened my appreciation for the diverse world of plant-based foods. Embracing this lifestyle has allowed me to explore new ingredients, create delicious recipes, and connect with a wonderful community of like-minded individuals. I encourage anyone considering this path to approach it with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. Every meal is an opportunity to nourish your body and support a compassionate lifestyle.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about my experiences, and I hope to inspire others on their journey toward healthier and more mindful eating.
Rumyana / vegan recipes
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