Yoga aims to discipline the body and the mind. By practicing yoga and being mindful of our breathing we start to become more aware of our bodies and our minds. (photo: worldyoga.cn)

The health of the body mostly depends on how we treat and care for ourselves. In yoga, where we search for balance in the body, balance in diet is also important. Part of becoming aware in our lives is becoming aware of what foods agree or disagree with our metabolisms.

"Yoga is one of the oldest sciences dating back 5,000 years ago," said yoga instructor Avinash Mishra, who has received a Master of Science in Yogic Science in India.

"In yoga there is a concept of diet which is helpful in spiritual growth it is said that food has an effect on our mind so yogis eat only that food which is helpful for their spiritual growth. This food was called sattvic food, which is wholesome vegetarian food that doesn't agitate the mind but instead nourishes your consciousness."

But as time changes concepts also have to be adjusted to present issues. "So now we need to make a balance between modern and ancient concepts of food," he said.

A balanced diet according to the modern concept is a diet which includes all the five basic food groups and the given amount of energy required by a healthy individual per day, as each food group has an essential role to play.

"The yoga diet is one of the five principles of yoga," Mishra said. "You will soon notice that eating properly will aid your health and make you feel fitter and cleaner."

The yoga diet is a perfect complement to yoga exercise. Despite the fact that the yoga diet is not a diet in the common sense of the word, you will probably loose weight through only eating healthy foods. "Even if you do not want to become a vegetarian, it is highly recommended to follow these basic yoga diet rules as they will make everyone feel so much better," he said.

(Shanghai Daily November 14, 2007)