We are all like a leaf on the giant Tree of Life. Like the leaves, our nourishment comes both directly and indirectly from the Divine, in part through the foods that we choose to eat. The Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center recognizes each person’s individuality and similarities alike, making a place of comfort and support. There is an amazing sense of peace that can be felt at The Tree of Life. The squirrels and deer munch quietly on the brush and grasses, undisturbed by human activity. It’s as if they know that they are perfectly safe and right at home. They too are a leaf on this massive tree.

The Tree of Life is a rejuvenation center created and run by Dr. Gabriel Cousens, M.D., M.D. (H) diplomat in Ayurveda, and his beautiful wife Shanti. A main aspect of The Tree is its focus on a living foods diet. This diet consists of raw, fresh vegetables, nuts and seeds. The diet also incorporates the spiritual and emotional aspects of food, creating blends of flavours and spices sure to satisfy anyone’s need for delicious food. The meals are never eaten without first being blessed. Not only is this food already overflowing with life force, but the blessings and prayers help to raise the vibration of the food to even higher levels. It transforms from raw food to truly healing food. Working in the café this summer has been quite an experience for me. The apprentices and kitchen staff hold a very loving and supportive energy. Often times when I help prepare food, I visualize healing light being mixed and stirred into the food. I thank the vegetables for giving their life so that we may eat. Everything served in the Tree of Life café is vegan, certified organic, kosher and of the highest quality. It is an oasis for all vegetarians, a place to be surrounded by like-minded people who care deeply for all living things. Hopefully the world can become a little more like the Tree of Life.

Apart from the organic living food, there are many other valuable experiences to be had at The Tree of Life. For instance, one can take part in programs and workshops designed to facilitate healing and help awaken the spirit. Dr. Cousens sees people from all over the world on a daily basis, and with the use of high tech machinery, high quality supplements and herbs, and a finely tuned intuition can bring about great healing. With your own body as the guide, Dr. Cousens creates an individualized program of diet and supplements to gain and maintain health. There are also other health treatments available at The Tree of Life, such as an ozone steam box, chlorine-free EM-infused hot tubs, and an oxy-bounce rebounder. Healing massages and Vedic astrology readings are also offered at The Tree.

I remember my first time on the land. As I took my initial steps on the orange, rocky earth, I felt as if I’d stepped into another world. I went exploring immediately. I was completely surrounded by untouched and pristine nature. I took a walk along the path to the temple, passing along the sunbathing decks, the circle garden, and the yoga platform. I couldn’t help but notice the silence. I found myself tip-toeing along the grasses as to not disturb the butterflies and hummingbirds taking their afternoon naps. My first impression was utter and complete peace. My whole body sank into the Earth and surrendered to the Universe. I knew immediately that I was in the right place.

My personal experience at The Tree of Life has been powerful and life changing. Through Shanti and Gabriel I discovered the magic of Kali RayTri yoga, and the peace and happiness attained through meditation. The Tree of Life is a support system where all bases are covered A person may feel drawn to meditate for hours in nature, while another may feel the need to do karma yoga in the kitchen by helping wash dishes and clean. Some people connect with the Divine through chanting, while others are naturally drawn to dance. At The Tree of Life, your spiritual needs and differences are embraced, whatever they may be. Correct nutrition and supplemental herbs, vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes in conjunction with right livelihood and devoted spiritual practice create a perfect environment for healing. This isn’t just healing on the surface; this is a deep healing of the whole person.

There is a specific quote that Gabriel often says during satsangs and evening meditations, “We must receive in order to share.” I have received a gift by being able to spend time at The Tree of Life. Sharing the knowledge that has been given to me has become a major part of my life. If you are interested in learning more about the Tree of Life and all that it has to offer, please visit their website.

Anna was the winner of the "How I Went Raw" Essay Contest 2003. Read her essay.