13/02/2025
As an yogic, our lifestyle, diet, and behavior should align with the principles of yoga, Ayurveda, and Sanatan Dharma. Below are the qualities to cultivate and avoid, as well as dietary recommendations based on yogic and sattvic principles.
1. Qualities to Cultivate (Do’s)
A yogic lifestyle is based on the Yamas and Niyamas from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras:
Yamas (Ethical Disciplines – Restraints)
1. Ahimsa (Non-violence) – Avoid harming any living being physically, mentally, or emotionally.
2. Satya (Truthfulness) – Always speak and live by the truth.
3. Asteya (Non-stealing) – Avoid taking what does not belong to you.
4. Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Control of Desires) – Moderation in all desires and energy conservation.
5. Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness) – Live a simple life, free from materialistic attachments.
Niyamas (Personal Disciplines – Observances)
1. Shaucha (Purity) – Maintain cleanliness of body, mind, and environment.
2. Santosh (Contentment) – Be happy and grateful in every situation.
3. Tapas (Discipline) – Follow daily yogic practices with dedication.
4. Swadhyaya (Self-study) – Study scriptures, chant mantras, and meditate.
5. Ishwar Pranidhana (Surrender to God) – Live with devotion and humility.
Other Essential Qualities
• Waking up early (Brahma Muhurta: 4–6 AM)
• Regular yoga, pranayama, and meditation
• Serving others (Seva, Karuna, Bhakti)
• Practicing mindfulness and gratitude
• Living in harmony with nature
2. Qualities to Avoid (Don’ts)
• Ego, arrogance, and greed
• Laziness, procrastination, and overindulgence
• Violence, anger, jealousy, and hatred
• Speaking ill of others (Gossip, Criticism, Slander)
• Overeating, oversleeping, and overthinking
• Addictions (Alcohol, to***co, drugs, excessive social media, etc.)
• Unnecessary arguments and negative company
• Materialistic lifestyle and attachment to luxuries (Balance is key)
3. Yogic Diet (Sattvic Food for a Yogi)
A yogic diet is primarily Sattvic (pure, light, and energizing), which nourishes the body and calms the mind.
What to Eat (Sattvic Diet)
• Fresh fruits and vegetables (preferably organic)
• Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, wheat, oats)
• Legumes and pulses (lentils, chickpeas, mung beans)
• Dairy in moderation (pure cow’s milk, ghee, paneer, buttermilk)
• Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds)
• Herbs and spices (turmeric, ginger, cumin, cardamom)
• Pure water and herbal teas
• Prasadam (food offered to God before eating)
What to Avoid (Tamasic & Rajasic Foods)
❌ Tamasic (Dull, Impure, Heavy foods)
• Meat, fish, eggs
• Onion and garlic (they increase heat and aggression)
• Alcohol, smoking, drugs
• Processed, packaged, and deep-fried foods
• Excess salt, sugar, and artificial flavors
• Stale, leftover, or microwaved food
❌ Rajasic (Overstimulating foods – to be taken in moderation)
• Spicy, sour, or overly salty food
• Coffee, tea (except herbal), and caffeinated drinks
• Too many sweets and fried foods
4. Yogic Eating Habits
✔ Eat with gratitude and in a peaceful environment
✔ Chew food properly and avoid distractions while eating
✔ Eat only when hungry and avoid overeating
✔ Drink water 30 minutes before or after meals (not during meals)
✔ Follow Ayurvedic fasting principles