Everything we eat is food for our soul. Yogis believe that food is the creator of prana (life force) that sustains our bodies and brings us vitality and health. Therefore, the types of foods we choose to eat reflect the level of our conscious development.
The discipline of yoga suggests a pure vegetarian diet, which facilitates the development of sattva. Sattva is a quality of love, awareness, connection and peace with all living beings.
Yogis believe that food is our first interaction with the world around us, and if we don’t eat a healthy diet, with a sense of love, connection, and peace, all other facets of our lives are prone to suffering.
The basis of sattva is the concept of ahimsa (do not harm). A sattvic diet avoids any food that involves killing or harming animals. Sattvic diets also encourage foods that are grown in harmony with nature and foods that are matured and grown naturally.
Also, the food we eat should be prepared with love and with a positive intention. By consuming a yogic diet, we are increasing prana and a higher state of consciousness.
These yogic foods that we suggest below are foods that help us increase prana. These suggestions are suitable for any level of yoga practitioner or individual seeking a spiritual and healthy path.
Foods that we can enjoy and include in a yogic diet
Fresh fruits in season, especially those that are naturally sweet.
In addition to being refreshing, delicious, and constantly changing with the seasons, fresh fruits are generally high in fiber, antioxidants, and more.
They are good for your health and are a great way to satisfy your hunger during the day. Thanks to its natural sugar content, fresh fruit provides an energy boost without the crash of refined sugars.
It is also important to include lemon water. Lower your coffee doses and start your day with warm lemon water. In addition to kick-starting your digestive system in a healthy way, warm lemon water helps alkalize the body, which in turn helps control the development and spread of disease.
If you’re a fan of Power Yoga that really works your muscles, warm lemon water can also help keep your joints and muscles healthy.
All vegetables except onions and garlic.
Among the vegetables that we can include in our yogic diet are kale or cabbages, mustard greens, since they are full of vitamins C, E and K, iron, fiber and calcium, and much more. Yoga is good for the whole body, and adding more dark green vegetables to your diet can help increase those benefits even more. Try them in salads, a smoothie, or stir fry as a side.
Raw cocoa, quinoa and oats.
Nothing better than chocolate and raw cocoa is a super food. It’s packed with antioxidants to fight disease, contains flavonoids to reduce the risk of heart disease, and also magnesium to support emotional health. Yoga has been found to help people live longer, happier lives, and it appears that consuming raw cocoa can help with that as well.
Yogis also need protein for energy and focus, and quinoa, which is a super grain, is one way to get it. Quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, iron for the blood, vitamin B2 to help with energy production in cells, and magnesium to control blood sugar. It can be eaten in place of a grain like rice, or even as a breakfast instead of oatmeal. Although quinoa is a grain, it is considered the grain of the future.
Oatmeal porridge is high in fiber, low on the glycemic index scale, and has been found to help lower cholesterol. In addition to that, yogis with the vata of the Ayurvedic constitution can benefit even more from the warming qualities of oatmeal porridge, especially when it is made with cinnamon or cardamom. It’s also great for the digestive system, and since it burns slowly, it’s great for sustained energy.
Lentils and tofu
Lentils are often called the fountain of youth for their anti-aging benefits. Lentils also have more folate than any other plant food. They are also loaded with iron and protein to keep you energized during a demanding yoga practice.
Yogis also love vegetarian diets, but anyone who follows a plant-based diet knows that the dilemma is finding protein foods. We all know you can get it from grains and vegetables, but another great source is tofu. Tofu is considered a complete protein because it supplies the 9 essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own. For every 100 g of tofu, this low-fat, low-sugar soy product provides 17.19 g of protein.
Almond, peanut, or peanut butter
Whether you prefer peanuts or peanuts or you prefer almonds, nut butters are a great way to satisfy hunger, boost your energy, and keep you fired up until it’s time for Savasana. Nut butters are super high in protein and contain good fats to keep you healthy. There are many ways to enjoy nut butters. Spread them on rice cakes or brown rice tortillas, or spread them on your apples or bananas.
Foods to avoid or reduce when following a yogic diet
- Meat and fish of all kinds, including eggs.
- Processed and / or artificial foods, junk food, artificial sweeteners, soda.
- Animal fats, margarine.
- Fried foods
- Canned foods, except tomatoes and naturally canned fruits.
- White flour, white sugar.
- Garlic, onions, spicy foods.
- Overcooked food
- Food heated in the microwave.
- Alcohol, tobacco, stimulants.
- Foods that are genetically modified.
- Foods eaten in a hurry or in a disturbed environment
Importance of a yogic diet
A yogic diet can improve your body, mind and spirit. To get the maximum benefit, combine what we have suggested at the dietary level with asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breathing techniques) and meditation.
A healthy diet is key to having both the energy and focus to get through your yoga practice. It’s important that such a diet is balanced and filled with nutritious foods high in fiber, vitamins, healthy fats, and natural sugars to keep you satisfied and grounded.
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