Healthy Ayurvedic Eating Rituals

Healthy Ayurvedic Eating Rituals

As we navigate our journey toward optimal well-being, one of the key aspects that often comes up is our relationship with food.

Many of us strive to eat wholesome and balanced meals, yet trying starting or maintaining habits is not easy.

That's why today, I want to deep dive into the topic of healthy eating rituals.

I want us to explore simple rites that honour food and transform an ordinary moment of reheating leftovers from last nights meal in the microwave or eating mindlessly, while watching the news, fighting with our partner, or even driving, into a divine communion with Mother Earth. 

Believe me. I understand the struggles and the constant juggling act we all face in our busy lives, I've had children, I've run businesses, so I know how that goes.

Getting that Work/Life Balance for Wellness

The demands of work, family, and other responsibilities typically leave us feeling overwhelmed and stretched thin. We may find ourselves reaching for quick, convenient options that don't always support our well-being.

We know the desire to eat healthily is present, but finding the time, motivation, and knowledge to do so, can feel like an uphill battle. Can you relate?

Now, eating healthy is indeed more than just consuming nutrient-rich ingredients.

It involves embracing a lifestyle that considers our behaviours, habits, and rituals, which can all help us heal our relationship with food.

Of course, rituals are more than just a sequence of actions, they're a form of self-care, a way to nurture your body, mind, and soul on a deeper level.

I'll share a few simple, meaningful rites, but let's begin with the one that resonates the most with you, progressively integrating the rest into your daily routine.

Let's start with Ayurvedic Cooking

Creating a harmonious environment is the first step in making your cooking process more sacred, so begin by cleaning your kitchen. Cleanliness, or 'sucha' as it's known in Sanskrit, is one of the ten disciplines of conduct, or 'yamas,' in yogic philosophy and is also a cornerstone of the Ayurvedic way of life.

The Saucha principle can be practiced by keeping our kitchen clean and orderly:

* using wholesome, organic, and unprocessed ingredients,

* water free from chemicals

* food free from preservatives and added nasties

* preparing food in a calm and positive state of mind

Before you start cooking, light a candle or incense as a symbol of the divine fire that transforms raw ingredients into nourishing energy within your body.

Mini Herb Garden

Consider creating a small kitchen garden. Even a few pots of fresh herbs on your windowsills can make a huge difference. The act of using fresh herbs and spices that you've nurtured connects you more deeply to the food you're preparing.

Cooking should be a mindful act. As you chop, stir, and simmer, stay present and engaged. This focused attention is a form of meditation in action, keeping you grounded and centered, this energy will enter the food you are preparing and will eat.

Involve yourself in the entire journey of your food, from farm to table. Visiting local farmer's markets not only supports your local community, as opposed to big corporations, but also gives you a greater appreciation for the effort it takes to produce your food.

Connecting with Prana (Lifeforce)

The Japanese concept of 'itadakimasu', which translates to 'I humbly receive', beautifully encapsulates this ritual. Before starting a meal, take a moment to express gratitude for the food in front of you. This brief pause fosters an intimate connection with your food and enhances the gratitude for every bite.

Dedicate time to eat without distractions. This means turning off the TV, stepping away from your computer, and focusing solely on your meal.

The traditional Chinese medicine practice of 'Hara Hachi Bu' can be immensely beneficial. It's a confucian teaching that instructs people to eat until they are 80 percent full. This not only helps you avoid overeating but also enables you to listen to your body's signals.

Ayurveda advocates eating:

1/2 your meal solids, 1/4 liquids, and leave 1/4 spare room for expansion and digestion. This is the ONLY way I eat, and never eat to capacity. I digest my meals easily and this helps eliminate the build-up of toxins (Ama) in the body, which keeps my doshas healthy and balanced.

Following an Ayurvedic diet is not about perfection. It is about progress and love. Love towards yourself, nature, and the people who contributed to putting food on your table.

Embrace self-compassion and approach your dietary choices with gentle awareness.

Listen to your body's wisdom and make adjustments accordingly, honouring your unique needs.

It is a journey, and every step you take forward is a step closer to a more vibrant you.

If you'd love to know how to eat for your particular dosha, simply give me a call on 0413101582 to book a consultation today.

Namaste and good health.

Anji