In Conversation with Vijaya Gera: The Visionary Behind the Intuitive Eating

Introduction

Vijaya Gera is a name synonymous with transformation in the world of health and wellness. An author, wellness educator, and public health advocate, she has inspired thousands through her groundbreaking book, “The Ultimate Guide to Intuitive Eating”, and her global workshops. Her mission is simple yet profound: to empower individuals to reclaim food freedom, build self-compassion, and foster long-term well-being.

In this exclusive interview, Gera shares her journey, the inspiration behind her work, and her vision for a healthier, more compassionate world.

Interviewer:

Vijaya, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with your journey. What inspired you to write “The Ultimate Guide to Intuitive Eating”?

Vijaya Gera:

Thank you for having me! The inspiration for the book came from my personal journey and the people I’ve met along the way. For years, I watched so many—myself included—get caught up in the toxic cycle of dieting and food guilt. Food, which is meant to nourish and connect us, became a source of anxiety.

I realized that the solution isn’t another restrictive plan—it’s about listening to our bodies and honoring what they need. “The Ultimate Guide to Intuitive Eating” was my way of sharing that message with the world, blending mindfulness, cultural wisdom, and practical tools to help others break free from diet culture and embrace balance.

Interviewer:

Your approach combines modern science with cultural traditions. Why is that integration so important?

Vijaya Gera:

Absolutely. Food is deeply tied to our identity, culture, and emotions. I’ve always believed that wellness shouldn’t strip us of those connections. Modern wellness often overlooks the beauty and wisdom of traditional food practices.

By integrating cultural traditions with modern science, I aim to make intuitive eating accessible and inclusive. It’s not about imposing one way of eating—it’s about empowering people to honor their heritage while embracing mindful nourishment.

Interviewer:

Your book is helping thousands, but you’ve also had a significant impact through your workshops. Can you tell us about that work?

Vijaya Gera:

Of course! The workshops are one of my favorite aspects of this journey. They’re designed to take the concepts from the book and make them actionable. Participants learn how to listen to their bodies, recognize emotional triggers, and develop a healthier relationship with food.

One thing I’m particularly proud of is how the workshops address systemic barriers. We focus on underserved communities, where access to quality health education is limited. By tailoring the content to be practical and culturally relevant, we’ve seen incredible transformations—not just in individuals, but in entire families and communities.

Interviewer:

What has been one of the most rewarding moments from your workshops?

Vijaya Gera:

There are so many, but one that stands out is a mother-daughter duo who attended a session. The mother had struggled with dieting for years, and her teenage daughter was already starting to mirror those behaviors. By the end of the workshop, they shared how the experience had not only shifted their perspective on food but also deepened their bond.

Stories like these remind me why this work matters. Intuitive eating isn’t just about food—it’s about healing relationships, building confidence, and creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Interviewer:

Your work has been recognized internationally. How does it feel to know you’re inspiring people on a global scale?

Vijaya Gera:

It’s incredibly humbling. I never set out to create a global movement—I simply wanted to share what had helped me and others around me. To see it resonate across cultures and countries is truly a gift.

That said, I see this recognition as a responsibility. There’s so much work to be done, especially in bridging gaps in health equity. I’m committed to continuing this journey and amplifying the voices of communities that have long been ignored in wellness conversations.

Interviewer:

What do you think is the biggest misconception about intuitive eating?

Vijaya Gera:

That it’s just another diet. Intuitive eating is the opposite of dieting—it’s about rejecting those rules and reconnecting with your body. It’s not a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a lifelong practice of self-trust and compassion.

Another misconception is that it’s only for a certain group of people. In reality, intuitive eating is for everyone—regardless of age, gender, or cultural background.

Interviewer:

What’s next for you? Are there new projects or goals you’re working toward?

Vijaya Gera:

Yes, I’m always thinking about what’s next! I’m currently exploring ways to expand the workshops into schools and workplaces, making intuitive eating a part of everyday education.

I’m also working on a new book that focuses on intuitive eating for children and families. It’s about helping parents raise kids who have a positive relationship with food from the start.

On a broader scale, I’m collaborating with public health organizations to integrate intuitive eating into global wellness initiatives. The goal is to make it not just a movement, but a sustainable part of public health policy.

Interviewer:

Finally, what message would you like to leave with our readers?

Vijaya Gera:

I want people to know that wellness is possible for everyone. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Trust your body, be kind to yourself, and remember that food is meant to nourish, not punish.

The journey to food freedom isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. And you don’t have to do it alone—there’s a whole community waiting to support you.

Conclusion

Through her book, workshops, and advocacy, Vijaya Gera is reshaping the wellness industry, one step at a time. Her intuitive eating philosophy is more than a trend—it’s a movement that’s transforming lives across the globe.

To learn more about Vijaya’s work, visit https://doublerootedco.com/ and join the journey toward food freedom, self-compassion, and sustainable health.

For more details checkout here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-ultimate-guide-to-intuitive-eating-vijaya-gera/1146747749