In Ayurveda and Yoga, Sattvik food is described as pure, simple, and aligned with local and seasonal availability. Discover the numerous advantages of consuming Sattvik food during the festival of Navratri.
As Shardiya Navratri approaches in 2023, many devotees prepare for nine days of fasting. The fasting duration varies from two to nine days based on family traditions. Regardless of fasting, a significant number of individuals adhere to a Sattvik diet during this period. Many choose to abstain from onion, garlic, root vegetables, tea, and coffee. Even those fasting carefully select grains, salt, vegetables, and other dietary components, opting for vrat-friendly foods such as Rajgira, Samak ke chawal, ragi, sabudana, singhara atta, and amaranth flour. These choices are not only Sattvik but also come with various health benefits. Packed with fibre, protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, a Sattvik diet aids in detoxification and nourishment, promoting overall well-being.
“Navratri, a festival marked by fasting, frequently sees individuals turning to sattvik food choices. Sattvik food aligns with the principles of purity, simplicity, and adherence to local and seasonal availability, reflecting the traditional Ayurvedic and yogic philosophies,” explains Dr. Hansaji Yogendra, Director.
Dr. Hansaji highlights the numerous benefits associated with consuming sattvik food during Navratri:
- Cleansing and Detoxification: Sattvik foods, being light, easily digestible, and free from additives, spices, and excessive fats, assist in detoxifying the body and providing the digestive system with a respite.
- Increased Energy and Vitality: Sattvik foods, rich in natural nutrients and minimally processed, offer sustained energy levels throughout the day, contributing to overall vitality.
- Mental Clarity: The simplicity of sattvik foods is thought to enhance mental clarity and reduce mental disturbances, which can be especially valuable during meditation and prayer.
- Balanced Nutrition: Sattvik diets typically encompass a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and dairy products, ensuring a balanced nutritional intake during fasting.
- Improved Digestion: Sattvik foods are generally gentle on the digestive system, which is beneficial when fasting might slow down the digestive process, preventing discomfort or digestive issues.
- Emotional Stability: It is believed that sattvik foods have a calming influence on the mind, aiding individuals in maintaining emotional stability and reducing stress or anxiety during the festive season.
- Increased Mindfulness: The emphasis on simple, natural, and unprocessed foods fosters mindfulness about food and its sources, fostering a deeper connection with what we eat.
- Respect for All Living Beings: Sattvik diets often exclude non-vegetarian foods and pungent spices, reflecting respect for all living beings and aligning with the principle of non-violence (ahimsa).
It’s important to acknowledge that the specific foods classified as sattvik may vary by region and individual beliefs. Common sattvik foods encompass fruits, vegetables, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. During Navratri, individuals may choose to prepare special dishes that are both sattvik and compliant with their particular fasting regulations.