Ashleigh Day thinks Veggies Rock!

This time it's Ashleigh who shares to us the awesome advantages of being a vegetarian, the benefits she gets from it and the goodness it does to the world.

According to Ashleigh, we are caregivers of this planet and its creatures, NOT destroyers.

We say 'hear hear' to that!

Ashleigh Marie Day
23 yrs. old, PETA Intern/Graduate Student
Certified VEGETARIAN!


How long have you been a vegetarian?

Since approximately late 2008/early 2009

Your reason for being a vegetarian: 

I chose to become vegetarian after being exposed to my friend’s farm where his parents sold their cows for their “flesh.” Honestly, I just began to have an inner-reflection about how animals are treated in our society (especially on factory farms), how I would not want my dogs being eaten/treated so horribly, and also how I would not want to be treated so unjustly if the tables were turned.

What are the advantages of being so?

The advantages of being vegetarian are magical! I feel much more energized and educated than ever before. I feel secure knowing that I do not attribute to the mistreatment of animals and that my diet will not attribute to health problems down the road that occur from eating flesh. Lastly, I feel very proud to say that I am helping to make this planet a greener one by not supporting factory farming. It feels so great to be educated on these matters. I am able to share the facts and my personal testimony with friends and family.

How has being a vegetarian changed or helped your life in any way? 

Being a vegetarian has made me much more aware of the ways that we all affect the planet and its inhabitants. It has made me be much more appreciative for the simple, everyday miracles of life such as the bond that my two dogs and I share together. My two adopted “mutts” have wholly and completely changed my life. They show me more love and compassion than some human beings. They inspire me every day and give me confirmation that I have made the right choice: vegetarianism.  

What's your passion in life?

My passion in life is to educate people and dedicate myself to helping the planet/society change for the better. I believe that this planet could be a true utopia and that educate is one of the primary ways in which this can be done. Whether I am educating people in a college classroom or discussing factory farming with a stranger in a coffee house, I will feel as though I have made an attempt to make this planet better.

Hobbies/Interests:

Playing/watching sports, reading, attempting to write fiction stories, hiking, attempting to cook, and going to the movies.

Does your eating lifestyle affect you and your performance in your hobbies & interests?

My lifestyle absolutely does not affect my performance in my hobbies or interests. When I was playing rugby in college, I had started to make my transition into becoming a vegetarian. Not only did I feel perfectly fine but I also seemed to have more energy and did not feel as bloated after a long conditioning workout as I did previously when eating flesh.

The only time I find this lifestyle to be somewhat “difficult,” is when I am in an unfamiliar place trying to find “quick” food. Although, even in this situation I am able to then ask someone where I can get vegetarian-friendly options and then I have a chance to talk to someone new who may not know a lot about this lifestyle. In this circumstance, I can share my personal experiences and reasons as to why I have chosen this lifestyle. So, in the end, it has its positive side.

Favorite veggie food: 
Dried mangoes and spicy Thai vegetable fried rice

FAVORITE CHIMARA food:

Sadly, I haven’t been there yet. Today is the first day on the job but, I am excited to go with the other interns. So, my answer is currently pending for a few days!

(Ashleigh just started with PETA when she answered our Q&A. Hmm.. We wonder what her favorites now are!) 

Tips to aspiring vegetarians:

You can do it! Just remember your health, the environment, and animals will all benefit from your choice!

How long have you been working for PETA?

Since 7-31-2012

How has it helped you in any way?

I definitely believe that working for PETA has helped me because it has made my conviction to helping animals even stronger as well as exposed me to many new outlets for information.

In your own little way, how can you make the world a better, greener, safer place?

I personally believe that the most important way to make the world a better, greener, safer place is to spread the word and educate people. Education is the most important aspect of society; it promotes a greater knowledge that allows us as a species to be a care-giver to this planet and its creatures, not a destroyer. Education helps to open up people’s eyes to the truth, which then fosters better choices and a better society as a whole. Therefore, I think it is extremely important for those who are educated on matters regarding vegetarianism/veganism and animal rights to speak up!

*****

Well, well, what a good way to cap off our Q&A series for the month!

 There's nothing but goodness and positive vibes in our interviews with our PETA friends! Just confirms how awesome it really is to live a healthy vegetarian lifestyle, knowing that you are not participating in the unfortunate treatment of animals in our society. With this, all we hope for is to inspire and encourage others out other to follow suit and start embracing a much greener, healthier, more humane lifestyle.

Once again, thanks again to our PETA friends and more power to all of you guys! 
We support you all the way!!! :)

We're you inspired by Ashleigh's Sole Story?

Perhaps, you have your own story of your road to goodness and healthy living as well?

Share it to us, and help us inspire and encourage others to do the same.

Send it to chimaraneovegan@gmail.com.

Debra Wolford: Passionately Living a Vegetarian Lifestyle

Another awesome story of one of PETA's current interns. This time it's Debra Wolford dishing out her share on living a plant-based diet, animal rights and things she learned having worked for PETA.

FULL NAME: Debra Wolford


NICKNAME:
 DEBRA

Age:19


Job Position: PETA Intern


Vegetarian? YES



 

If yes...

How long have you been a vegetarian?

Almost three years!



Your reason for being a vegetarian:

I have always loved animals, and when I was old enough to make important decisions on my own, I decided I didn't want to play any part in the horrifying meat industry anymore. I feel better with every day that passes between me and my meat eating days because I know that I am no longer contributing to the horrible fates that all those poor animals have to face.



What are the advantages of being so?

Besides the obvious of not being a part of the horrifying meat industry, I have personally noticed that I have become a much healthier version of myself. I have lost weight, have more endurance, and barely ever get sick anymore. 



How has being a vegetarian changed or helped your life in any way?

I feel much healthier since being vegetarian, and my endurance has improved so much! But also just the idea that I am not contributing to the suffering of animals makes me happier and feel better. 



What's your passion in life?

As cliche as it sounds for a vegetarian to say, animals truly are my passion in life! Since I was three years old I have known that I wanted to become a veterinarian and have honestly based my entire life around that dream. I am currently studying animal sciences at Wageningen University, but in this study I have seen the realities of what I might end up doing as a vet (like preparing animals for slaughter). Now I hope to take the knowledge from my study and use it in the animal rights/conservation sector!



Hobbies/Interests: Competitive swimming, biking, hanging out and cuddling with my  cat and two dogs.



Does your eating lifestyle affect you and your performance in your hobbies&interests?

Definitely! My endurance has improved an unthinkable amount since switching to a plant-based diet! I also have more energy, which helps with everything from studying to swimming.



Favorite veggie food: spaghetti with tomato sauce and mushrooms



FAVORITE CHIMARA food: The Tofu Supreme!



Tips to aspiring vegetarians: Get the PETA vegetarian starter kit, it really helped me make the transition! Also, if you ever start craving animal products, just remember all the reasons that you wanted to become a vegetarian in the first place. That always helped me get over any cravings I had at the beginning. It get's easier with every day that passes, and at a certain point you won't even remember why you ever craved meat!



How long have you been working for PETA?


Just over 2 weeks now.

How has it helped you in any way?


It has helped me in so many different ways, but most importantly, my dream of working in animal rights has been magnified these last couple of weeks because of the work PETA does. It has also helped with my struggle to become completely vegan, being around other people who understand my decision and have gone through the struggle themselves  makes it a lot easier to stay strong and remember why I originally wanted to become vegan.

Any instance or project worth sharing to others?

We fed, washed, and played with several stray/chained dogs. It showed me how much work that still actually needs to be done concerning animal rights, and that it's not only the big, public, projects that are important, but also the little personal things like helping out an animal in need.



In your own little way, how can you make the world a better, greener, safer place?

The most important thing is to not go through life ignoring the suffering of others- whether human or not. Speak up when you feel like something is wrong, help out an animal in need, and of course try going vegetarian!

*****

It's imminent that Debra will surely be awesome whether landing a career as Veterinarian or Animal Rights Activist! Her love for animals ever since she was a child strongly shows and the lifestyle she has chosen is no doubt the path to living up to her passion.

Great job Debra! We do hope there's a lot more of you out there to fill this world with goodness! Our animal friends couldn't be any happier! ;-)

We're you inspired by Debra's Sole Story?

Perhaps, you have your own story of your road to goodness and healthy living as well?

Share it to us, and help us inspire and encourage others to do the same.

Send it to chimaraneovegan@gmail.com.

Jia Yin Ng, PETA Intern & Certified Animal Lover

Jia Yi Ng is a PETA Asia intern from Malaysia, and has been here in Manila for about three weeks now. He happily participates in our Q&A, as he shares with us his experience as a vegetarian and its advantages, the projects he has been doing for PETA sine he got here, and his plans in the future as an animal rights advocate. Surprisingly, in the short time that he has been here, he has been quite a fan of Chimara as well, which makes us really happy and proud. Read on to know more about our first Sole Story feature, and find out how awesome it is to be both Vegetarian & Animal Lover!

  

NICKNAME: Jay 

Age: 24  

Position: PETA intern  

  Diet: VEGETARIAN 

How long have you been a vegetarian?

I have been consuming a healthy and humane vegetarian diet since the beginning of this year.

Your reason for being a vegetarian:

No special reason, but it was partially due to the influence of religion. I used to join and be a volunteer in training camps held by the Buddhism Society. By being exposed to the camps where vegetarianism is fundamental, and enjoying vegan meals throughout the camp, I gradually adapted to a vegetarian diet.

What are the advantages of being so?

I can easily fall asleep at night knowing that I am not causing animals to suffer and die for the food I put on my plate. Also, I feel healthier and lighter. My digestion is better and I have more energy. I also know that eating a vegetarian diet reduces my risk of diseases like certain types of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

How has being a vegetarian changed or helped your life in any way?

It has not changed much actually, I am still living the life I want. I can still eat delicious and satisfying foods – the only difference is that I know those foods are not damaging my own health or contributing to animal suffering.

What's your passion in life? Future goals?

I have a dream to pursue a PhD and travel the whole world. And I am on the way to to make the best of it!

Hobbies/Interests:

I know basketball and photography.

Does your eating lifestyle affect you and your peforrmance in your hobbies & interests?

I am more energetic than ever!

Favorite veggie food: Kim chi

FAVORITE CHIMARA food: TOFU SUPREME

Tips to aspiring vegetarians:  

Realize the plethora of vegetarian foods that you have available! Vegetarians don’t just eat salads – that will break your spirit. Try Chimara and other vegan-friendly restaurants, and you will be amazed at how many foods you can eat. I have been ordering meals from Chimara every week since I came to Makati. I think you’ll be surprised how many foods that vegetarianism opened your eyes to.

How long have you been working for PETA?

About 3 weeks, but I will be here until the end of August. When I return to Malaysia and continue my travels, I will keep volunteering for PETA and advocating for animals whenever I can.

How has it helped you in any way?

PETA provides excellent vegan lunch everyday, and sometimes we order from Chimara! During my work at PETA, I contribute to various projects which help PETA fight for animals and doing that helped me to realize that the only way to help and save the earth is turning to a vegan lifestyle.

Any instance or project worth sharing to others?

1. Save 'Mali': PETA is fighting for the release of Mali (the only elephant in the Manila Zoo and in the entire country), so that she could return to her own kind and get the medical attention she so badly needs. Mali has been living in a barren enclosure at the Manila Zoo for 35 years, and she has not seen another elephant in about 33 years. It’s time to do what is right for Mali and retire her to a sanctuary.

https://www.facebook.com/FreeMali

SAVE MALI

Check out this video. This is Mali's Life.

2. I participated in a campaign to promote the kapon of cats and dogs in front of British Embassy in advance of the London Olympics. I was painted entirely bronze and held a banner reading “Be a Champion for Animals: Spay and Neuter”.

One of PETA's many projects is the advocacy to have our pets spayed & neutered. In this photo, Jay's body is painted and poses as a human statue for a day together with two other interns as they carry the campaign banner.

In your own little way, how can you make the world a better, greener, safer place?

Go green
 Try to save the environment by saving the electricity, reducing the use of plastic bags, etc.

Go vegan

 Consume no meat, dairy products, eggs, or anything come from animals.

***** 

Isn't it amazing how Jay, at a young age of 24, already knows what he wants in life, and is actually doing it? And with a conscious effort to keep not only his well-being and good health by choosing to be a vegetarian but also advocating animal rights and going out of his way to volunteer and take the responsibility as a guardian for the beautiful creatures we share our planet with is just amazing.

May the rest of his stay in Manila bring forth a slew of great experiences that he can bring with him back in his homeland as continue on his chosen path to good, healthy living. :)

We're you inspired by Jay's Sole Story?

Perhaps, you have your own story of your road to goodness and healthy living as well?

Share it to us, and help us inspire and encourage others to do the same.

Send it to chimaraneovegan@gmail.com.

 



 

If You Are Actually a "PERSON", You Would Want Nothing But Freedom for MALI

Yes, and that's because as a "person", we are designated by God, the higher power or whatever it is that we believe is our creator, to be the caretaker of this mighty land and the guardian of all other creatures and living things in the world.

And given all the conditions and facts of Mali's situation in Manila Zoo, such transfer to a sanctuary that PETA Asia has been pushing for and a lot has been raving about thanks to them, should have been done a long time ago.

There is no better way. THERE IS NO OTHER WAY.

Only FREEDOM...

from Solitary Confinement.

from Poor Living Conditions.

from the UNJUST.

Let us all help PETA in this fight, for Mali's sake.

Do take time and visit Change.org and sign PETA ASIA's petition as well:

Urgent! Take Action to Save Lonely, Miserable, Elephant

SOLE STORIES: The Influencers of Healthy Living

This coming August, we'll be presenting you with fresh stories of individuals who chose the healthier path, their experience behind the journey and how it helps them fulfill their passion and mission in life.

Tune in and be inspired!

 For the first batch of influencers, we're excited as we take a closer look at the healthy lifestyles of some of our friends from 
PETA ASIA!

HELLO JUNE! HELLO RAIN!

Doesn't it feel like summer just flew by? We can't believe it's the end of May…

but Hello June!

June marks so many things for us Filipinos. It's back to school, goodbye summer,  and of course, marks the start of the real rainy season.

(img src = khuletzslapshock31.blogspot.com)

♫ Raindrops keep falling on my head ♪

The rainy season can bring about gloominess but we have the perfect comfort food for you!

Soups for the Soul

Tofu Onion Soup

Enjoy the superb flavors of onions, most soothing for the digestive systems, garnished with protein - rich tofu cubes and parmesan cheese.

Orange Root Soup

Savor this soup that has carrots and squash, both rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, flavored with coriander and ginger for extra warmth and zest

Drop by Chimara and let us bring comfort to your body and soul :)

Go Green with Eco-Friendly Bags

The number of plastic usage all over the world has lead to an increasing concern on disposal. Plastic is harmful to the environment yet many still use it due to its practicality and low cost.

img src = thenakeddish.com

One of the best alternatives is to grab yourself an eco-friendly bag.

img src = zazzle.com

Most supermarkets have already started offering eco-bags at very cheap prices and even offer benefits for using them. Some give extra or even double points for your loyalty card. Others even go as far as not using plastic bags during certain days of the month and let you bring home your goods in cardboard boxes unless you have an eco-bag to put them in.

img src = http://www.squidoo.com/giftsteacher

It's good to know that places like these are supporting the Go Green Campaign. We at Chimara are all for going green by supporting the use of Eco-Friendly bags.

What's great about these bags is that you can use them for any occasion. Not just for groceries, you can also use them as your personal handbag, your kid's tote bag, your babies diaper bag and lots more!

What makes it even better is that they don't have to be dull. Check out these fun and stylish takes on eco-friendly bags!

img src = http://www.sanpablocity.com.ph/san-pablo-city-fashion/279-eco-friendly-bags.html

Do you have any suggestions on where to get these awesome bags?

Let's all support Mother Nature and go green with us! :D

RECIPE: Surfer Style Nachos (using our very own Tofu Chips Nude!)

Who here loves nachos but find it too fattening and unhealthy?

Not to worry! At Chimara, we have a great alternative for you! :)

Perfect for the remaining days of summer, this recipe is called the Surfer Style Nachos using our signature snack, Tofu Chips Nude. They are protein rich, sesame-seeded tofu crisps.

Surfer Style Nachos
Serving Size: 2-3

Ingredients
Bag of Chimara Tofu Chips Nude

1 16 ounce can black beans
2 plum tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup corn (frozen is fine)
1 jar good salsa
1/4 head romaine lettuce, shredded
Shredded cheese of your choice (optional)
Greek yogurt (optional)

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Place the beans in a food processor with 1/2 jar of the salsa. Combine just until thick and chunky.

Place Chimara Tofu Chips on a baking sheet. Add chunky black bean puree. Sprinkle corn (if you are using frozen corn, defrost it first), tomatoes, and remaining salsa on top. Add cheese if you like. Place in oven until the cheese melts.

Remove nachos from the oven. Add shredded romaine lettuce on top. Serve with dollops of Greek yogurt for added creaminess if desired. Yum!
-fitsugar.com

The great thing about our chips is that you can also eat it with all kinds of dips!

Try it out with a healthy salsa

img src = ifood.tv

a guacamole dip

img src = bytheslicecatering.blogspot.com

or spinach dip

img src = recipes.wikia.com

There are so many ways to give our tofu chips a kick! :)

Any suggestions on how else you can prepare a meal with our tofu chips?

Help PETA Pick the Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity!

It's that time of the year!

It's time to vote for PETA's Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity!

As more and more people become aware of the benefits of going vegan, the number of celebrities joining this movement has also gone up.

This year, we're proud to share that our own Filipino celebrities are nominees!

Geneva Cruz

Alicia Mayer

Juliana Palermo

Chin-Chin Gutierrez

Meryll Soriano

Yasmien Kurdi

Cynthia Alexander

Lougee Basabas

Nityalila Saulo

Raya Mananquil

Isabel Roces

Sandra Selfert

We've also got a couple of male celebrities, too!

Raymond Bagatsing

Carlos Agassi

RJ Ledesma

According to the PETA Asia Pacific’s website, the Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity will be determined through votes (poll runs until May 15), celebrities’ commitment to vegetarianism, PETA’s assessment of the celebs’ attractiveness, and their media-friendliness. - www.mb.com.ph

You can vote for them here: http://www.petaasiapacific.com/featureSexiestVegCeleb2012-Eng.asp

Who will you vote for? :)

Chimara Diaries wants your story!

Calling all Chimara fans!

It doesn't matter if you're vegetarians, vegans or non-vegans, we want to get to know you more. We will be featuring stories on how having a healthy lifestyle has impacted lives.

Do you have a story to share on how your healthy lifestyle has changed your life for the better? Has Chimara helped you in maintaining this lifestyle?

(img src = "old.tehrantimes.com")

If you answered yes, do send us an email at chimaraneovegan@gmail.com :)

We'd love to know more about you. If you need help in constructing your story, we will be glad to guide you. If you have photos you also want to share, that would be awesome, too.

We can't wait to hear from you and share your inspiring stories. :)

Healthy Eating for Virgo

Virgo (August 22 - September 23)

Virgo is a very independent zodiac sign. They are fully able to put their intelligence to use and get things done for themselves. It is possible however that their narrow mindedness causes their creativity to suffer and they may lead regular routine lives. They may dwell too much on the past and over complicate things and this may limit their ability to move forward and confuse themselves. In conclusion, Virgos are able to be independent but the less evolved types will have difficult if someone is not there helping them to achieve more and not be so critical of themselves.

Strengths:
- Analytical
- Observant
- Helpful
- Reliable
- Precise

What to Avoid: chocolate. In addition, food should not be highly seasoned, spicy, laden with sauces or gravies, or fried.

What to Eat: green leafy vegetables , whole wheat and whole grain breads, wheat germ oil, oats, almonds, cheese, oranges, bananas, lemons, lean beef and lamb. Healthy foods that are easy to digest are corn bread, yogurt, brown rice, eggs, and cottage cheese. Melons, apples, pears, and papaya

Chimara Meatless Taco is a good option for you :)

Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and onions topped with mock beef, soy beans, corn, mango slices, and cubes of queso blanco. Try it with Garden Tomato Salsa.

Get our Soy Smoothies for your fruit fix!

Sources: http://zodiac-signs-astrology.com & http://www.findyourfate.com/astrology/diet/astro-diet.htm

Healthy Eating for Capricorn

Capricorn (December 23 - January 20)

Capricorns are very ambitious people, they always have something they are pursuing and they want their lives to be fulfilled and important. Capricorns are extremely patient and will wait a long time for something they want, when the opportunity arises, they will plan their steps carefully. Capricorns have a very active mind and strong powers of concentration. Capricorns like being in control of their surroundings and everyone in their life. Capricorns are very cautious but this only to survey the situation before leaping in, they will never make a hasty jump in. They accept change but introduce it slowly so they can get used to it and incorporate it into their life. Capricorns tend to see life in black or white, definitive's only.

Strengths:

responsible
patient
ambitious
resourceful
loyal

What to Avoid: chocolate, refined sugar

What to Eat: oranges, lemons, figs, celery, cabbage, dandelion greens, spinach, broccoli, corn, peas, potatoes, walnuts, almonds, whole wheat, oats, and brown rice. fresh raw salad, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, fish, eggs, whole-grain breads, cheese, buttermilk, yogurt.

Our Tofu Supreme is a good choice for Capricorns!

A hi - protein bundle of tofu, soybeans, nuts, carrots, and soya bacon bits. Best with Asian Sate.

The 4-Cheese Tomato Pita Romana will give you a healthy serving of cheese!

A foursome blend of light cheese, kesong puti, parmesan cheese, low - fat cheese 'n herbs, and fresh tomatoes.

Give any of our soy milkshakes a try!

Available in Chocolate, Strawberry & Green Tea :)

Sources: http://zodiac-signs-astrology.com & http://www.findyourfate.com/astrology/diet/astro-diet.htm