Category: Wellness

Raw Vegan Cooking Changed My Life — And Now I’m Teaching Others

by Julie Heskins, posted in Raw Vegan Food, Wellness
Home » Blog » Wellness

I’m excited to share that I’ve just completed my Raw Vegan Chef Training Level 2 — which means I’m now formally qualified to teach a wide variety of raw vegan dishes to others. This is something I’ve already been demonstrating at my Rainforest Reiki Retreats Days, and now I can take it further. If you’re part of a group or retreat that would love to learn hands-on raw food preparation, I’m happy to travel and teach at your venue.

That said, my focus remains on teaching, not catering. I’m not looking to become a private chef for yoga retreats or events, but I am passionate about empowering others to create their own vibrant, nourishing meals.

raw vegan foods prepared by Julie Heskins

My Raw Vegan Training Journey

I discovered raw vegan foods by accident while on a meditation holiday in Bali back in 2023. I was looking for somewhere to have a nice meal and a friend recommended Sayuri’s. I’ve never looked back and have now completed:

🌿 Raw Vegan Dessert Chef – February 2023
🌿 Raw Vegan Chef Level 1 – November 2023
🌿 Raw Vegan Chef Level 2 – July 2025

Through these trainings at Sayuri Healing Food Academy in Bali—I’ve learned how to prepare delicious raw vegan dishes with flavours from all around the world.

Skills I’ve Gained Along the Way

Here are just some of the things I now teach in my classes and retreats:

  • Dehydration techniques for making coconut “bacon,” papaya “salmon,” flaxseed crackers, vegan wraps, and more—while preserving the full nutrient content of each ingredient by keeping temperatures below 46°C.
  • Global flavour profiles—how to balance sweet, sour, salty, and spicy in sauces and dressings using just a few core ingredients.
  • Simple kitchen tools—you don’t need fancy equipment to make amazing raw meals. Often, the blender or food processor you already have is enough.
  • Making your own vegan cheeses, granolas, and milks from scratch—so you know exactly what’s in your food.
  • Sprouting grains and seeds to add more life to your meals—literally! Sprouted foods are enzyme-rich and more digestible.
  • Seasonal eating—choosing fresh, local produce that’s better for your body, your wallet, and the earth.
  • Smart swaps—like replacing heavy carbs with lighter options like cauliflower rice or jicama.
  • Critical thinking about supermarket vegan food—not all vegan products are healthy. Some are highly processed and packed with preservatives. The food I prepare and teach is the real deal—nourishing, fresh, and full of energy.

How Raw Vegan Eating Has Changed My Life

Before I began this journey, I was like many people—buying granola and nut milks from the supermarket, never really thinking about what was inside. Most commercial nut milks contain as little as 2% nuts! Now I make my own at home with almonds, cashews, or seeds—and it tastes incredible.

Shopping has become a joy. I love exploring farmers’ markets, trying new fruits and vegetables, and thinking about which dressing or dip will bring it all together. I often follow themed weeks—like Japanese, Thai, or Middle Eastern recipes—so every meal feels like a new adventure.

I still enjoy balance. Lunch is usually raw, while dinner might be a warm vegan dish. I don’t force anything. If I’m out and someone offers me a cooked meal, I accept it with gratitude. I believe in being firm and flexible—and not letting food become another label or restriction.

Energy, Clarity, and Joy

This approach to food has transformed the way I feel. I have more energy, clearer focus, and my digestion is happier. I also sleep less and feel more alive in my body. Of course, I know this isn’t only about food—my daily Reiki meditation practice has played a big role too. But raw vegan eating has definitely deepened the way I connect with myself and the world around me.

Want to Learn With Me?

If you’re interested in raw vegan cooking and want to learn how to prepare meals that energise, inspire, and nourish you from the inside out, I’d love to share what I’ve learned. Whether it’s part of a retreat day at Rainforest Reiki or a private group session at your venue, my classes are hands-on, practical, and always full of flavour and heart.

Get in touch to learn more or book a session. Let’s make food that heals, together.

For more details, email julierainforestreiki@gmail.com or phone 0438 537365. Alternatively, check the Retreat Day page for upcoming group Reiki and Raw Food Retreat Days.

Upcoming Events

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Viva Mexicana! Raw Vegan and Reiki Retreat Day in Cairns

by Julie Heskins, posted in Raw Vegan Food, Wellness

Raw Vegan Foods Inspired by the Taste of Mexico

Home » Blog » Wellness

Looking for a healthy and fun activity in Cairns? Why not join Julie’s Raw Vegan and Reiki Retreat Day in October 2025.

This unique combination of raw food preparation and reiki healing practices is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with yourself whilst learning new culinary skills.

SAVE THE DATE

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What is Raw Vegan Cuisine?

Raw vegan cuisine focuses on plant-based foods that are prepared without heating above 46°C (115°F).

This gentle approach to food preparation preserves the natural enzymes, vitamins, and minerals that can be diminished through conventional cooking methods.

Raw vegan dishes rely on creative techniques like sprouting, fermenting, dehydrating, and blending to create complex flavours and textures.

Mexican-Inspired Raw Vegan Delights

During the retreat day, you’ll be creating vibrant, Mexican-inspired vegan delights that showcase the versatility and flavour potential of raw plant foods.

Taco “Meat”

This protein-rich alternative to traditional taco filling typically uses nuts, seeds, or mushrooms as a base, seasoned with Mexican spices to create a satisfying texture and rich flavour. The raw preparation method maintains the nutritional integrity of the ingredients whilst delivering the familiar taste of tangy tacos.

Cacao Mole Sauce

A raw vegan interpretation of classic Mexican mole, this rich dip combines raw cacao with traditional Mexican flavours. Raw cacao is packed with antioxidants, magnesium, and natural compounds that can boost mood and energy. When blended with complementary spices and ingredients, it creates a super-yummy sauce that tastes amazing with fresh vegetables.

Fruit Salsas

Fresh fruit salsas bring natural sweetness and vibrant colours to the Mexican-inspired menu. These raw preparations showcase seasonal fruits and locally-grown herbs.

Cashew Sour Cream

This creamy, tangy alternative to dairy sour cream is made from raw cashews, which are naturally rich in healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. When blended with acidic ingredients, cashews create a remarkably similar texture and taste to traditional sour cream.

Classic Guacamole

The star of Mexican cuisine, guacamole showcases the nutritional powerhouse of the beloved avocado. Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, fibre, potassium, and vitamins K, C, and E, avocados provide sustained energy and support heart health. When prepared raw with fresh herbs and vegetables, guacamole becomes a nutrient-dense addition to any meal.

What to Expect on Your Retreat Day

Morning: Culinary Demonstration and Hands-On Learning

The day begins with an interactive demonstration of simple raw vegan culinary methods that you can easily try at home. You’ll learn essential techniques for preparing raw vegan dishes, including proper soaking and preparation of nuts and seeds, flavour balancing, and texture creation.

After the demonstration, we’ll work together to create our Mexican-inspired luncheon. This hands-on approach ensures you’ll gain practical experience and confidence in raw food preparation. The collaborative cooking process is both educational and social, allowing you to make new friends while mastering new skills.

Some snaps from one of Julie’s raw vegan food demonstrations earlier in the year. The food is super-yummy and you get to eat everything you make.

Midday: Sharing the Feast

Together, we’ll enjoy the delicious foods we prepared. This communal meal is an opportunity to savour the fruits of your labour whilst experiencing how satisfying and flavourful raw vegan cuisine can be.

Afternoon: Meditation and Japanese Reiki

The afternoon transitions into healing and relaxation with meditation and Japanese Reiki practice. The combination of mindful eating and energy healing creates a holistic wellness experience that nourishes both body and spirit. The meditation practice is especially important because it helps integrate the day’s learning with our Being.

Relax in the Rainforest above Cairns in Julie’s gorgeous studio.

A Day of Connection and Learning

Beyond the culinary skills and healing practices, this retreat day offers something equally valuable: community connection. Participants often form lasting friendships through the shared experience of learning, creating, and eating together.

Whether you’re new to raw vegan cuisine or looking to expand your culinary repertoire, this day promises to be both educational and deeply relaxing. Book your spot today.

have fun learning reiki
Connect with like-minded people from the greater Cairns region.

BOOK YOUR SPOT

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reiki 1 students in cairns with julie heskins

Why Learning Traditional Reiki is so beneficial

by Julie Heskins, posted in Meditation, Reiki, Wellness
Home » Blog » Wellness

There are many varieties of Reiki that have come to the West since Mikeo Usui first introduced the system in the early 1920s.  He originally put the system together for his own use realising the benefits of simplifying Buddhist precepts, practicing various meditation techniques, and added hands on healing which was already widely used in Japan. 

After his death in 1926, his students continued his legacy. Depending on their individual experiences and interests, some focused more on hands on healing while others on the more spiritual teachings and meditation techniques.  

Hawayo Takata, who first brought the system to the West, was taught by Chirjiro Hayashi.  Her teacher Hayashi was a medical doctor in the Navy for many years and his clinics focused on group hands-on healing for students. 

Hawayo, who was Japanese but had been living in the USA (Hawaii), became very ill on a trip back to Japan.  She went to Hayashi’s clinic in Tokyo, received 4 months of reiki treatments and was completely healed from her illnesses.  Afterwards she wanted to learn his healing methods so she could teach Reiki when she returned to Hawaii.

Upon reflection, it is not surprising that when Takata bought the reiki system to America, her focus was mainly on hands-on healing and using the precepts.  She considered that the breathing techniques and meditations too ‘spiritual’ for westerners at that time.

In her diary, Hawayo Takata describes Reiki as an “unseen spiritual power that vibrates and all other powers fade into insignificance beside it.” This power or force is believed to be within all of us, but those who study and apply it correctly can use it to heal.1

Reiki and Meditation

Nowadays meditation has become widely accepted.  People in modern day life (especially those with anxiety, depression, or feeling disconnected to themselves) benefit from the various ‘meditations’ on offer.  Most people start with fully guided meditations, which are very relaxing, but don’t always facilitate real growth and awareness. 

Japanese reiki meditations are a much deeper experience. They take you to a place where you can observe the mind, let go of the many thoughts that arise, and keep returning to a safe place. A place that quietens the more we practice. The outcome is that you soften your attachments to worries and anger and rediscover your true nature.

It’s the place of real growth and real awakening.

Sitting in silence is tough for busy people 😀.  Our modern society often over-stimulates the mind with world news, music, and digital distractions.  How many friends do you have who can’t sleep at night? The mind can be a very busy place at night.

‘A peaceful mind is the great infinite’.  How true this is ❤️🙏.

The idea of a calm mind is very attractive, but it takes work and perseverance for most of us.  Many abandon their practice because focusing on the breath, something that seems incredibly easy, is hard.  However, if we are willing to commit to regular practice, the rewards are wonderful.

Meditation returns us time and again to the present moment. It is here that we find joy, genuine happiness and connection.

This is one of the reasons I love Reiki.  In a class we try out various techniques and focus the mind on deeper breathing.  Students are often surprised that the changes they notice happen relatively quickly.  It gives them incentive to keep practicing at home.

Are you interested in learning reiki and beginning a regular meditation practice? I look foward to meeting you in Cairns.

Julie xx

julie heskins teaching meditation in cairns

Learn Reiki in Cairns

Why not begin your own journey into healh and inner wellbeing. Julie teaches all three levels of Japanese reiki, beginning with Level 1 Reiki Shoden. Here are the latest course dates for Reiki beginners.

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References

Quote 1: Hawayo Takata Papers (Santa Barbara Library)

meditating at the edge of the ocean

Maintaining self care in challenging times

by Julie Heskins, posted in Meditation, Wellness
Home » Blog » Wellness

Things are tough right now and we are all feeling it. This quick blog post is a gentle reminder to take care of yourself along with a few tips for maintaining your own self care in challenging times.

1. Mindfulness

The pressures of our world are part of our human existence, and a consistent mindfulness meditation practice will help you face the stressors in your life, while taking a step back from any negativity and drama.

Mindfulness is about focusing your attention on the here and now, regulating your breathing, observing your feelings and the sensations in your body without judgment. Rather than responding or reacting to negative thoughts or feelings, you merely note them and let them go. The object is to create awareness and take it into our daily lives, appreciating the remarkable gifts that life provides throughout each day

mindfulness written on a note in the window

2. Hydration

When bills and financial stressors are coming at you, don’t forget to keep up your hydration levels. And if you find yourself drinking more coffee and alcohol than usual, make sure you balance this out with clean water, fresh juices, green tea, and herbal infusions.

man on beach with stainless steel water bottle

“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”

Jon Kabat-Zinn

3. Movement

It’s great to keep your body mobile and moving. Apart from the proven benefits to cardio-respiratory health and fitness, exercise improves the quality of your sleep while decreasing the symptoms of depression and anxiety. With age our bodies loose flexibility and strength so yoga, walking and regular gym work can all make a huge difference to our mobility and daily wellbeing.

Julie Heskins from Cairns teaches Yoga Classes
Julie recommends gentle stretching and yoga to keep your body active and supple.

4. Nutrition

A balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables can increase your energy levels and and improve your focus throughout the day. Try to avoid processed foods and anything that makes you feel heavy and tired. Your body knows best, just ask before you eat.

raw food prepared by Julie Heskins
Julie was once a big fan of pasta and pastries but began slowly eating raw vegan food and fruit-based treats instead of biscuits and cakes. She even learned to make them herself and now includes these delicious meals and desserts at her meditation retreats and reiki courses.

5. Retreat

If you can, take some time out for retreat. If you don’t have the time or resources for a lengthy detox or getaway, you could try a meditation retreat day, an overnight staycation somewhere close to home, or just taking a weekly mindfulness class.

bench seat with a painted sign behind that says 'self love'
Your spiritual practice is the ultimate act of self-love. Rather than letting it fall away when things get tough, lean into your practice.

Reiki Practice in Daily Life

by Julie Heskins, posted in Meditation, Mindfulness, Reiki, Wellness
The wonderful thing about the system of reiki is how much it supports us through each day. When we are in a good state of mind, not overwhelmed, anxious or afraid, then we can support others in a loving, kind and positive way.
I moved to Australia 30 years ago. My parents initially had reservations about me travelling the world. They changed their minds when they visited me to celebrate my 21st birthday. As they enjoyed the warm climate, the beautiful vistas of Kakadu and the Whitsunday islands, they understood why their only daughter had fallen in love with this incredible country!
Travel and adventure they realised was fun. After that initial taste of what travelling offered they met me in New Zealand, Thailand and other far flung places.

I settled in Cairns eventually and they came to visit a number of times. They loved it. Gorgeous places to visit like Cape Tribulation, the Tablelands, the reef and Fitzroy Island. Staying at Rainforest Reiki was a treat too and they came to a reiki share night and mum had treatments.

As they got older I asked them if they’d like to move to Australia. They always had great friends in UK and they didn’t want to. When dads health deteriorated and they could no longer travel I visited them in UK once a year.
At times when they were ill I facilitated distant reiki sessions. This is done by setting intent that the person receives whatever healing they need in that moment and then you sit in meditation holding that loving intent free of expectations and judgement. This can last 20-30 minutes.
On some level you always know when you live far from loved ones that eventually one parent will face a serious health issue. It’s how you deal with the challenges that arise that counts. The only certainty is that there’s always change in our lives.
The precepts of reiki are the backbone of the whole system. Students are taught different meditation techniques to work with these.
The precepts, or principles of Reiki are:
For Today Only:
Do not anger
Dot not worry
Be grateful
Practice diligently
To show compassion to yourself and others
By working with the meditations and other practices students create awareness. The goal is to take these practices into daily life and live from this place.
Of course it doesn’t mean we never get angry or worried! That would be in a perfect world ❤️. These precepts are the goal of the system to be less worried, less angry, more grateful and be kind and compassionate to ourselves and others. To rediscover our inner light which is always within us – we’ve just forgotten it.
Aged 87 and 85 my parents have maintained good health. Two months ago my dad rang with the news mum had had an a severe stroke and was in hospital. My reiki practice has always given me so much support with challenges and this time was no different . Taking one day at a time I’ve been able to get clear, be there for both mum and dad and support them both energetically and practically with phone calls and, more recently, visiting them in UK.
My dad has stayed positive throughout and feels loved and supported by friends and family.  He knows mum is in the best place and getting the care she needs.  Practicing reiki gives me trust that there is a flow to life and the object is to let go of outcomes and be as present as possible to what is each day.
Initially mum was unconscious and dad visited.  After 63 years of marriage they had never been apart except for a few days.
Six weeks into mum’s recovery it was clear to me I needed to go back and assess things and be there for them both.  I already had another trip planned to do Raw Chef training in Bali (creating delicious raw food for retreat days and courses is something I enjoy) and continued onto UK.   It was so good to see them both.  The staff at the hospital were lovely but mum was finding being in hospital challenging – the noise, lights and constant movement are hard on anyone, let along an old lady whose used to a peaceful life.  Facilitating reiki on the ward calmed mum and one of the nurses was enthralled!  She asked about having a session and learning – maybe in the future…
My dad has been doing well on his own. He appreciates the support he gets from friends and the retirement village community. He can cook, do laundry and manages with little help.  Mum will hopefully be able to keep improving and return home so they can be together again.  I am now back in Cairns and will continue to do distant reiki for us all.
The intent for the best possible outcome for them both is paramount. ❤️❤️🙏😀.
group of ladies on retreat wtih julie heskins Cairns

The Importance of going on Retreat

by Julie Heskins, posted in Meditation, Wellness

As twenty-first century life becomes more complex, stressful, and challenging many people are allowing themselves time out for retreat. A retreat is an opportunity to get away from the stress and demands of our everyday lives and do something positive for ourselves.

In this short blog I’ll be unpacking some of the key benefits of retreat and a few guidelines to help you find a suitable retreat in your area. I run regular retreats here in Cairns and Far-north Queensland but you might need something a little closer to home.

Meditation

Studies show that meditating even for as little as 10 minutes increases the brain’s alpha waves (associated with relaxation) and decreases anxiety and depression.

Psychology Today

Often retreats offer a chance to practice new things like yoga, meditation and Reiki.  It’s fun to try new things and also build or reconnect to existing knowledge.

Go on retreat with an open mind and be willing to try meditation and other spiritual practices. You will be amazed at how peaceful and rejuvenated you will feel by the end.

Even better, you might learn new meditation practices which you can bring into your daily life once you get back home.

Learn simple meditations you can use back at home.
Julie Heskins teaches meditation and Reiki
Meditation and Reiki reduce anxiety and depression.
gentle yoga with julie heskins
Be willing to learn and try new spiritual practices.

Socialisation

Social engagement is associated with a stronger immune system, especially for older adults. This means that you are better able to fight off colds, the flu, and even some types of cancer.

Psychology Today

A retreat should be a good balance of personal time, exercise, doing practices which focus on your wellbeing and a chance to socialise with others.

Connecting with like minded people is also something that’s very beneficial.  We can all learn from each other.

group of ladies on retreat wtih julie heskins Cairns
Connecting with like-minded people is one of the best things about retreat.

Great Food

Nutrient deficiencies are implicated in many mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.

Psychology Today

A lot of people think that retreat is about extreme dieting and denial, but this isn’t true. Retreat is always about wellbeing and should include good healthy food options that inspire you.

Ask your retreat host when booking about the type of foods you’ll be eating and the availability of different dietary options.

2021 meditation retreat with julie heskins
A retreat is never about denial, it’s about experiencing new and delicious foods that promote good health and long-term wellbeing.

Exercise

Scientists are finding exercise boosts neuron development and reduces anxiety.

Psychology Today

Exercise is great tonic for mental health and a well-run retreat will include a nice selection of physical activities. Gentle yoga, tai-chi, Reiki, swimming, and walks in nature are all lovely on retreat.

It’s wonderful to try new exercises that improve your strength and flexibility. And in a group setting under the guidance of an experienced teacher you just might surprise yourself.

Practicing yoga and other physical activities in a group is a joyful experience.

Nature

Being in nature lowers cortisol, reduces heart rate, bolsters immunity, improves mood, among other gains.

Psychology Today

Look for a retreat that is set in nature where you can experience grounding and find peace and quiet.

On retreat it’s important to minimise distractions.  Leave the phone in your room during sessions or even for the whole retreat!  

yoga student meditating at Rainforest Reiki in Cairns QLD
Meditating in nature has so many benefits like lowering cortisol and reducing heart rate.

Final thoughts

Odd as it may seem, taking real, quality time to “escape” from your everyday routine and reflect on your own life is actually one of the best things you can do for the people who matter in your life.

Psychology Today

I hope I’ve been able to convince you that Retreat is a healthy act of self-care that can have a big impact on your overall wellbeing. Programming regular time out for yourself, learning meditation and other spiritual practices, will not only reduce your stress levels but better enable you to support the people in your life.

Of course I’d love to see you at one of my retreats in the tropical rainforest of Far-north Queensland, but no matter where you are in world do take some time to experience the benefits of a meditation retreat in the place that’s best for you.

Upcoming Retreats in Far-north Queensland

Julie hosts regular retreats in Cairns, Mission Beach and the Atherton Tablelands. For more information call +61 438 537365 or email julierainforestreiki@gmail.com. Cairns has daily flights from all major cities in Australia.