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Writer's pictureRaileigh Duschen

The Responsibility of Conscious Eating in a Toxic Food System

In a world where fast food and chemical-laden products dominate the shelves, it’s more important than ever to rethink how we nourish our bodies.


mushroom inoculation, diversity in farming

As a conscious lifestyle coach, I’ve navigated countless health trends only to arrive at a simple, profound truth: every human body is unique, and so intuitive and mindful eating is the key to thriving in a system that often works against us.


This isn’t about perfection or the latest fad. It’s about intentionality. My approach is grounded in eating clean, vibrant foods. Organic fruits and vegetables form the cornerstone of my diet, ideally sourced locally to support community growers and reduce environmental impact. I avoid processed sugars entirely, invest in high-quality oils (especially for the rare fried indulgence), and make a conscious choice to spend more on wholesome foods now—saving myself from spending on pharmaceuticals and medical interventions later.


Yet, these choices come with challenges, often tied to cultural misunderstandings. A man from Ireland once questioned why I discuss food intolerances, suggesting my approach reflected ingratitude. But it’s not about privilege; it’s about awareness. In the United States, contaminated food and water laced with chemical toxins are a reality too dangerous to ignore. Only entrusting corporations with our food dependence strips us of our dignity as human beings. We are not mere consumers. We are stewards of our bodies, our communities, and our planet.


If we are to reclaim this stewardship, every one of us must take ownership of what we eat. Learning to grow fruits and vegetables, wild forage for mushrooms, nuts, berries, and medicines, or purchasing food from local farmers isn’t just a survival skill—it’s an act of love and self-empowerment. Eating mindlessly or relying solely on convenience comes at a cost. If we detach from responsibility for our health, we cannot be surprised when life mirrors our negligence.


For those on a journey of self-development, spirituality, or conscious living, the way we eat is foundational. It reflects our respect for ourselves and the world we inhabit. I say this in full awareness and consideration of the historical and systemic traumas that impact food access and desire to contribute to food production, especially for people of color in America—Indigenous peoples, immigrants, and the descendants of the stolen and enslaved. 


Thankfully, an organic, culturally aware food movement is alive and thriving. It’s rooted in a deep respect for the Earth and a passion for community-driven sustainability. Farmers’ markets, organic farm conferences, and volunteer opportunities offer a path to reconnect with the land and support local growers who embody these values.


Your health is in your hands. Taking control of what you eat isn’t just about physical well-being—it’s about reclaiming your power and aligning with your purpose. Let’s approach food with the same intentionality we bring to spiritual growth, business building, and cultivating divine love.


Let’s remember: food is not just fuel. It’s a sacred connection to life, to each other, and to the Earth. Choose consciously. Choose wisely.


This piece is dedicated to inspiring a collective awakening to the responsibility we all share in creating a healthier, more sustainable world. 


🌟 If you enjoyed this article, I invite you to my free weekly group coaching call, The Medicine Garden at 7pm ET. Join the group call every Tuesday by emailing Raileigh Duschen at raileigh@consciouslifestylecoaching.com


🌟 If you are on the path of self-development, healing, and spirituality and are seeking guidance at this time, receive a free 45 minute coaching discovery call (by free application to the Life Purpose Actualization program only).


🌟 Each month I host Sacred Reminders, an Ascension Seminar and free live virtual discourse. Next month's seminar theme is "A HEALTHIER KIND OF FUN" which is happening December 15th, from 3pm -6pm ET. You can watch recent seminars and sign up.


🌟You can now schedule an exclusive solo or group healing retreat. We focus on professional and self-development, holistic well-being, and empowerment by creating spaces for healthier and more productive lifestyles and business cultures.


🌟Please check out my newly published book, “Phoenix Medicines— A Transformative Journey through Consciousness,a collection of poetry, short stories, meditations, affirmations, and prayers. Special thanks to Otterpine. Available on Amazon and most online retailers.


🌟The Amazon Best-Seller, “Women Connected in Wisdom Vol II: Stories & Resources Rooted in the 8 Dimensions of Wellness” is available in audiobook, ebook, and paperback.


Raileigh Duschen is a best-selling author and poet sharing her expertise on consciousness, alignment, and integrity. She is also the founder of Conscious Lifestyle Coaching, a sacred space for those on the paths of self-development, healing, and spirituality. She offers guidance through authentic embodiment and deep present awareness to catalyze significant lifestyle changes that align with higher vision, greater purpose, and life fulfillment.


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