Ahara - Yogic Diet

Yogic Diet & Ahara: The Power of Sattvic Eating

Ahara: The Essence of Yogic Living

Ahara, or food, is one of the four fundamental pillars of yoga. It has been revered as sacred, shaping both the body and mind. If our highest duty is to care for ourselves, are we truly mindful of what, when, and how we eat? Overeating, undereating, or consuming the wrong foods can disturb both our physical health and mental well-being.

It is often said that the tongue, though a small organ, can lead us into trouble—whether through careless speech or poor dietary choices.

The Significance of Food in Yoga

Human life is sustained by air, water, and food. The ancient yogis deeply analyzed the role of food and its impact on overall well-being. They understood that food is more than just fuel; it influences our thoughts, emotions, and energy levels.

Rather than viewing food merely for its nutritional or chemical value, yogis classified it based on its effect on the body and mind. They identified three categories of food, aligned with the three fundamental energies of the universe: Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas.

Sattvic Food: The Path to Purity

Sattvic foods are natural, light, and easy to digest. They generate energy, mental clarity, and inner peace. Those who consume a Sattvic diet often feel content, happy, and full of vitality.

Some common Sattvic foods include:

• Milk and dairy products
• Fresh fruits and dry fruits
• Seasonal vegetables
• Whole grains like wheat, unpolished rice, millet, jowar, bajra, and corn
• Pulses such as moong dal and sprouts
• Natural spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin seeds
• Honey and jaggery

By incorporating more Sattvic foods into your diet, you can experience enhanced well-being and harmony in both body and mind.

The Mindful Eating Practice

The most crucial aspect of Ahara is the state of mind while eating. Ancient yogic texts advocate the practice of Mauna (silence) during meals. When we eat mindfully, focusing solely on the act of eating, digestion and absorption improve significantly.

Here are a few mindful eating tips:

• Avoid distractions like television or mobile phones while eating
• Pay attention to the texture, aroma, and taste of your food
• Chew slowly and thoroughly
• Cultivate a positive and peaceful atmosphere while dining.
• Let go of judgments about food—eat with gratitude and presence.

Eating in this manner ensures that food nourishes not only the body but also the mind and spirit

Recipe: Herbal Tea from The Yoga Institute

At The Yoga Institute, Mumbai, a healthy herbal tea is served daily to promote well-being. Here’s how you can make it at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup milk
• 3-4 lemongrass leaves OR 4-5 mint leaves OR a small piece of ginger

For Jaggery Water:

• 2-3 tsp jaggery
• 1 cup water

Method:

1. Boil water with lemongrass, mint, or ginger.
2. Add milk, bring to a boil, and strain.

For Jaggery Water:

1. Boil water and remove from flame.
2. Add grated jaggery and stir until dissolved.
3. Add 2 tsp of jaggery water (or as per taste) to the milk mixture.
4. Stir well and serve hot

Want to dive deeper into the principles of Ahara? Join us for the Healthy Sattvik Cooking Workshop at The Yoga Institute. Learn how to prepare nourishing Sattvic meals, understand the yogic approach to food, and experience the benefits of mindful cooking.

👉 Register here: https://theyogainstitute.org/healthy-sattvik-cooking-workshop