Plant-based goodness: Here’s how being vegan and spirituality can go hand in hand

According to a 2025 study conducted by Veganuary, around 25.8 million people around the world have tried veganism during January 2025. Yes, veganism has become more popular than ever before. It has also caught the attention of many celebrities. Actors like Woody Harrelson, Mayim Bialik, people’s favourite Natalie Portman and Oscar winning artist Joaquin Phoenix have all embraced veganism with great fervour.

Veganism is not just popular among the health-conscious; a growing number of people are turning to a plant-based lifestyle for various other reasons such as fitness, weight management and environmental concerns.

Their choices reflect a cultural shift towards a more mindful and compassionate living. For many, it’s a positive change not just for the body, but also the heart and the mind. But amongst the many reasons to choose veganism, one that catches our attention is how this lifestyle helps spiritual growth. Indeed, veganism can spark a spiritual growth and support one’s inner transformation. Angela Crawford, PhD, psychologist, vegan educator and author of The Vegan Transformation: A Journey to Heal Yourself and the World, has spent years researching and interviewing vegans about how veganism has had a positive impact on their emotions and spiritual life. According to her research, many vegans report feeling more connected, compassionate and purposeful after starting on this path.

Indeed, veganism can help one live a meaningful life and be a gentler contributor to the healing of the world. So, join us as we explore how veganism can support spiritual growth.

Greater connection with all living beings

“A man of my spiritual intensity does not eat corpses,” stated the legendary George Bernard Shaw. With this bold statement, the Irish playwright and political activist made a powerful connection between spiritual depth and the choice to abstain from consuming animals. His words state that when we have respect for life in all forms, we naturally experience a heightened spiritual awareness.

For those who adopt a vegan lifestyle, this idea becomes increasingly clear. When one does not include animal products in their diet and no longer sees them as food but as beings who are capable of emotions and feelings, there is a shift in perception, and this can mark the beginning of one’s inner transformation. Many vegans elaborate how what starts as a growing sense of empathy for animals, gradually spreads towards people and the planet. This expanding circle of compassion creates a deep connection with nature.

In this way, veganism becomes more than a dietary choice; it becomes a spiritual practice.

Brings compassion

Across spiritual traditions in the world, compassion as a virtue has been given utmost importance. In Buddhism, compassion or karuna is central, and it is believed that when one chooses it, they head on a path to enlightenment. In Hinduism, the principle of ahimsa teaches followers to practice compassion for all living beings. These teachings show us that true spiritual progress begins with compassion. And adopting a vegan lifestyle is a great way to live with compassion and awareness. It means choosing not to contribute to the harm of animals for food, clothing or any other products. Over time, this practice helps deepen our compassion for animals and every living being. This expansion of the heart is the core of spirituality.

Crawford explains that by choosing veganism, one broadens their circle of compassion. This shift is a spiritual act and it aligns with many teachings and traditions found across the world. By living a life that honours all life and practices love, non-violence and empathy, one can nurture inner peace and translate those wonderful spiritual ideas into everyday action.