For years, many people live their lives unaware of the harsh realities behind their everyday choices, until a moment of truth compels them to act. This was the case for Pria Acharya, a mindfulness consultant and vegan activist, who shared her transformative journey on a recent episode of the NHA Health Science Podcast, hosted by Dr. Frank Sabatino. Dr. Sabatino and Pria dug deep into her transition from a vegetarian upbringing to becoming a dedicated advocate for veganism. Her upcoming documentary, “Do No Harm,” promises to explore the ethical complexities of the dairy industry, shedding light on issues often hidden from public view.

A Foundation in Compassion

Pria’s story begins with her upbringing in a Hindu family in India, where the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence, was a fundamental aspect of her life. Raised in a culture that venerates cows and promotes vegetarianism, Pria naturally adopted a diet free from meat. However, as she delved deeper into spiritual and psychological studies, she began to question the ethical implications of consuming dairy products, which eventually led her to veganism.

The Shift to Veganism

The shift from vegetarianism to veganism was not an overnight decision for Pria. It was a gradual process fueled by increasing awareness and concern over the practices within the dairy industry. As she conducted more research, Pria discovered the often brutal realities behind dairy production, both in the United States and India. This newfound understanding highlighted the disconnect between her cultural teachings of compassion and the treatment of animals in the dairy industry, prompting her to embrace a fully vegan lifestyle.

The “Do No Harm” Documentary

In her upcoming documentary, “Do No Harm,” Pria explores the ethical dilemmas associated with dairy consumption, particularly within cultures that hold the cow in high esteem. The six-part series uses a narrative storytelling approach to connect with viewers emotionally, focusing on her personal journey and the broader societal implications of dairy production. Pria aims to create a dialogue around these issues, encouraging viewers to question long-held beliefs and consider the impact of their dietary choices.

Challenging Cultural Norms

One of the key themes in Pria’s discussion was the cultural contradiction she observed, especially in India. Despite the cow’s sacred status in Hinduism, the reality of dairy farming often involves significant animal suffering. Pria shared poignant observations from her visits to cattle farms in India, where she witnessed calves being neglected or starved, a stark contrast to the reverence traditionally afforded to these animals. This dissonance underscored the need for greater awareness and education about the realities of dairy production, even in cultures that ostensibly prioritize compassion.

Mindfulness and Compassion

Pria also addressed the broader mindfulness community’s often-overlooked implications of food choices, particularly concerning animal welfare. She emphasized the importance of extending the principle of compassion to all living beings, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of mindfulness that encompasses ethical and compassionate living. Pria believes that true mindfulness should lead to conscious choices that align with the values of non-harm and compassion.

Looking Ahead: Future Projects

Beyond “Do No Harm,” Pria is working on a related book and has plans for a feature film titled “Holy Cow,” which will further explore solutions and highlight the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. This project aims to provide a comprehensive overview of veganism’s positive impacts, from health benefits to ethical considerations, offering a hopeful vision for a more compassionate future.

Considerations Challenged 

Pria’s experience and unfolding into a vegan lifestyle serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of ethical and mindful living. Her work challenges others to reconsider their dietary choices and the impact of those choices on animals and the environment. By sharing her journey and insights, Pria hopes to inspire a broader dialogue on compassion, mindfulness, and the true meaning of living a non-violent life.

Episode Highlights 

[00:00] Introduction. 

[01:45] Growing up in India sets the tone for future endeavors.

[03:00] Questioning vegetarianism. 

[06:00] Getting pushback at home about veganism. 

[08:00] Craving a sense of peace through mindfulness. 

[11:00] An awareness of the disconnect between what is said and what is done is various religions and spiritual practices. 

[16:30] The economics of pain and suffering. 

[20:00] How the idea for “Do No Harm” came about. 

[27:00] Animals have agency. 

[31:00] The consequences of our choices.

[36:00] A day in the life of Pria. 

About Pria Acharya 

Pria Acharya is a dynamic and multifaceted professional with a rich blend of experience and education that spans across marketing, small business support, writing, contract management, training coordination, sales, promotion, public relations, and coaching. Holding an MBA in Marketing, Pria has a robust background in business strategies that drive growth and visibility for small businesses.

As a documentary filmmaker and ethical vegan, Pria uses her storytelling skills to create compelling narratives that advocate for plant-based living and animal rights. Pria is also a certified Vegan/Plant-based Lifestyle Coach, helping individuals transition to a healthier, more compassionate way of living.

Born in India as a Rajasthani Brahmin Hindu, Pria immigrated to the United States at the age of seven. Her diverse educational journey includes studies in psychology, writing, Asian studies, film, and theater, providing her with a unique perspective that enriches her professional endeavors. This diverse background fuels her passion for creating content that resonates deeply with a wide audience.

Pria is also an author, sharing her insights and experiences through her writing. Her works often reflect her commitment to living a green, ahimsa (non-violent) lifestyle, and her dedication to animal activism. As an animal activist, she is deeply involved in promoting veganism and advocating for the humane treatment of all living beings.

In her personal time, Pria enjoys gardening and crafting whole plant-based meals, embracing the ethos of sustainable living. Her connection to nature and passion for healthy living is evident in all aspects of her life.

“Do No Harm” Trailer

Social Media Handles

https://www.instagram.com/vegan_pria

https://www.linkedin.com/in/priacharya

www.tiktok.com/@mindfulveganpria

https://www.facebook.com/K.Pria.Acharya

amazon.com/author/priacharya 

Storytelling: https://youtu.be/AlRJPAH_A8Q

About Dr. Frank Sabatino

As a recognized authority on the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, Dr. Frank Sabatino has cared for and inspired thousands of people for over 40 years. Dr. Sabatino has a PhD in cell biology and neuroendocrinology and has done extensive landmark research on calorie restriction, stress, and aging. He currently is on staff at the TrueNorth Health Foundation in Santa Rosa, CA, and serves as the Director of Health Education at the NHA.

Dr. Sabatino’s passion and life’s work include raising awareness about the benefits of whole-food, plant-exclusive nutrition (without added salt, oil, or sugar), health rejuvenation and stress management.

Dr. Sabatino is the author of Weightless: Compassionate Weight Loss for Life, a groundbreaking guide to sustainable weight loss through a compassionate, plant-based lifestyle. Drawing on extensive clinical and personal experience, Dr. Sabatino offers practical strategies to overcome food addiction and avoid fad diets, risky drugs, and surgeries. The book provides meal plans, recipes, and lifestyle tips, emphasizing whole, plant-based foods and addressing the role of stress, sleep, and environmental toxins in weight management. “Weightless” empowers readers to achieve their weight goals healthily and sustainably, benefiting both people and the planet.

About NHA

The National Health Association (NHA), founded in 1948, is a nonprofit organization that promotes the benefits of a plant-based diet. The Association provides educational materials, educational events, and services to thousands of people around the world.

The mission of the National Health Association is to educate and empower individuals to understand that health results from healthful living. The NHA recognizes the integration of all aspects of health: personal, environmental, and social.

The NHA also provides travel experiences around the globe through the NHA Plant-Based Travel and cruise division.

More information: https://www.healthscience.org/

Scholarships

A unique benefit of the NHA Conference is the selection of two medical students who receive a full scholarship to the conference.

Contact Wanda Huberman for more information on how to apply for the scholarship.  [email protected]

NHA membership

For a very nominal investment, you can enjoy incredible benefits of the NHA membership.

Members of the NHA enjoy a subscription to the award-winning quarterly health journal, Health Science, access to the “Members Only” section of the NHA Website (which contains all 43 years of back issues of the magazine),  the ability to download for free many classic out of print eBooks on the history of the Natural Hygiene Movement, including Fasting Can Save Your Life and The Greatest Health Discovery, discounts on books, and early notice of the NHA events.

Only $35 a year for basic membership within the United States.  https://www.healthscience.org/join-renew/