In Ayurveda and Yoga, sattvic foods are considered to be pure, simple, local and seasonally available. Eating sattvic food during Navratri brings all the benefits.
Navratri 2023
The festival of Sharadiya Navratri is just around the corner and during these auspicious nine days, many Durga devotees observe fast. The fasting period ranges from two days to nine days depending on the traditions followed by the particular family. Fasting or not, many people eat a sattvic diet during this time. Many people avoid onions, garlic, root vegetables, tea, coffee.
Fasting people also choose grains, salt, vegetables and eat foods suitable for fasting, among other things. During Navratri people prefer Rajgira, Samak rice, ragi, sabudana, water bark flour, amla flour. These foods are not only sattvic but also packed with health benefits. Rich in fiber, protein, essential vitamins and minerals, a sattvic diet can flush out toxins and nourish the body well.
Traditional Ayurvedic and yogic philosophies define sattvic foods as pure, simple, locally and seasonally available, which are considered clean. Yoga Institute Director Dr. Hansaji Yogendra said in an interview with HT Digital.
- Cleanse and detoxify
Sattvic foods are generally light, easy to digest and free of additives, excessive spices or fat. It can help detoxify the body and relax the digestive system.
- Increased energy and vitality
Sattvic foods are rich in natural nutrients and minimally processed. Consuming such foods can provide continuous energy throughout the day and help maintain overall vitality.
- Mental clarity
The simplicity of sattvic food is believed to promote mental clarity and reduce mental anxiety. This can be especially beneficial during periods of meditation and prayer.
- Balanced nutrition
A sattvic diet often includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and dairy products. This can help maintain a balanced nutritional intake during the fasting period.
- Improves digestion
Sattvic foods are generally easy on the digestive system, which can be helpful during fasting when the digestive process is slow. This can avoid discomfort or digestive problems.
- Emotional stability
Sattvic foods are believed to have a calming effect on the mind, which can help individuals maintain emotional stability and reduce stress or anxiety during the festive period.
- Increase awareness
Focusing on simple, natural and unprocessed foods promotes awareness of what one is eating, leading to a closer connection with food and its sources.
- Respect for all living beings
A sattvic diet often excludes non-vegetarian foods and spicy spices. It shows respect for all living beings and conforms to the principle of non-violence.
It is important to note that specific foods considered sattvic may vary by region and personal beliefs. Common sattvic foods include fruits, vegetables, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. During Navratri, individuals may choose to prepare special dishes according to Sattvik and their specific fasting rules.
