Well on Wheels

Mary Lawrence, Vegan Wellness Educator

 

Who knew that a health crisis would lead to a major shift in consciousness that would change the course of one's life!

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That's exactly what happened to me in 1997. After years of suffering from asthma, allergies, debilitating fatigue, and a preliminary diagnosis of lupus, I felt like my life was over. Instead of giving up, I decided to do some research.

 

I was fortunate to find a naturopathic doctor who explained to me that the food I was eating was making me sick, and that once I addressed my food intolerances and eliminated inflammatory foods, my body would heal itself. 

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I adopted a whole foods plant-based diet in 1997 and haven't looked back. I relearned how to cook and started sharing the food I was making with friends and family, which received rave reviews.

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Thoughts of opening a vegan restaurant tantalized me, but I realized that I needed balance in my life. Holistic health is not just about the food you eat, but it also involves making time for daily physical exercise, managing stress, maintaining positive social relationships, connecting with Nature, and giving back with joyful service.

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In 2003, I launched my vegan personal chef business to help make healthy eating easy for busy people. I now teach dozens of classes every year, counsel hundreds of clients, and give people the tools they need to create their own lasting health through diet and lifestyle practices.

 

I regained my health after experiencing decades of chronic illnesses by adopting a whole foods plant-based diet, practicing mindfulness, and reconnecting with my love of nature...and so can you!  

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As a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant with the American Fitness Professionals Association, I am trained to assist you with achieving your health goals while meeting dietary needs. I obtained my certificate in plant-based 

nutrition from the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies at Cornell University and consult current research based evidence to conduct any health intervention. In addition, I received my culinary arts training at the Natural Gourmet Institute where I focused on natural and organic foods so that I can provide you with optimal meal plans that heal the body.

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In 2014 I published my first cookbook, Easy Peasy Vegan Eats, a guide for people making the vegan transition. My most recent cookbook, Eat Vegan with Me (Vegan Publishers, 2017) combines techniques for engaging in effective conversation with compassionate cuisine to make the transition to a vegan lifestyle delicious and fun.

 

In addition to running my business, I am also an adjunct faculty member teaching English composition at Gateway Community College, a Board member of the American Vegan Society, and co-chair of the Green Party Animal Rights Committee. I earned my MA in Communication and Cultural Studies from the University of Hartford and a BA in English from the University of Connecticut. I am currently pursuing certification as a Master Gardener through the University of Connecticut and am fortunate to have studied herbalism with Christopher Hobbs of the American School of Herbalism, Chris Marano of Clear Path Herbals, and the Herbal Academy. Because of my love of nature and lifelong fascination with plants, I am also coordinator of the Peas & Love Veganic Community Garden in Manchester, CT and a horticultural volunteer at Elizabeth Park in Hartford, CT.