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)
