Food and diet is an important part of yoga practice. According to yoga practitioners, an improper diet can directly affect the benefits of traditional yoga. They encourage people who wish to adopt the yoga lifestyle to be aware of three categories of foods. Foods are grouped by their nutrition and health value, as well as by they way they are prepared and cooked.
Rajasik Foods
Rajasik foods are the types of foods that can lead to restlessness, according to yoga practitioners. These are usually highly seasoned entrees that are fried, baked, roasted or curried. The Rajasik food group includes most desserts and alcoholic beverage. They are not recommended for yoga beginners as they tend to cause the mind to wonder, making it more difficult to reach a relaxed state. You will also find that these food choices are also filling and sometimes tied to conditions like obesity, according to Yoga for Beginners.
Tamasik Foods
Tamasik foods are believed to lead to a lethargic disposition, according to yoga principles. Dishes in this category are usually prepared with excessive spices like salt, pepper and hot spices. In most cases, they contain additives and artificial ingredients or colors. Some of the more common foods of this group are tobacco, onions, garlic, and vinegar, most of which contain little to no nutritional benefit to body and mind. Only the more experienced yoga participant will be able to practice successfully while consuming these foods regularly, according to Yoga for Beginners.
Sattvik Foods
Most yoga instructors will tell you that Sattvik foods are the most recommended for those practicing the yoga lifestyle. These foods are usually fresh and cooked simply with little or no spices added. The group includes most fruits, vegetables, whole grains, sprouts and water. A vegetarian diet is considered to be Sattvik. Sattvik foods are recommended for all who practice yoga, especially beginners.
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