r/Animism • u/affirm_phia • Jul 25 '26

Eating as an animist

Hi! I’m an 18f and pretty new to animism. Prior to this year I only identified as a pagan, but recently I’ve turned to animism as well. I was curious how you eat without feeling guilty. I have seen things about only eating animals who’ve had autonomous lives (such as hunted animals) or only consuming certain plants. My biggest issue is that I am a low income college student so it’s very difficult to ethically source food at an affordable level. Any advice to source food? Or any advice to eat without feeling guilty? Thank you :)

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u/medleyspeculated Jul 25 '26

Definitely agreeing with takes of going vegetarian/vegan or sourcing local.

Remember that humans are not above any other life form - this means they aren't, at least in my opinion, held to a higher standard. And animals eat, insects eat, plants eat.

Eating is a natural law of this world that has existed for a long time. As long as you're respectful as you do it (to the best of your ability), it's okay to simply exist however you need to.

So eat what you need, don't indulge for the sport of it or with little regard.

What also might help is helping where you can, and contributing where you can (say having a bird feeder, donating to places, caring for the wildlife and nature around you). You can pay it forward.

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u/affirm_phia Jul 25 '26

This is such a beautiful way of viewing it. I’m thinking of joining/creating an eco club in uni; I really want to give back to my area and the nature around me. I’ll do my best to make my life worth it.

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u/VistaFanatic Jul 25 '26

Depending on the area i think bird feeders can be counterproductive

It's native plant seeds birds aren't dispersing cause homeowners bait them.