Elevate Your Well-Being: 5 Small Changes for a Healthier You on the mat in 2024

Embarking on a journey toward a healthier lifestyle is not just about the physical aspects but also about understanding the profound connection between what we eat and how it impacts our overall well-being. As a nutritionist, Naturopath in the making and avid yoga enthusiast, I've discovered five simple, yet transformative, changes that not only enhance our health but can also deepen our practice. So, let's infuse some vitality into our lives with these delightful tips in 2024!

1. Surya Vegetables and Fruit: Bask in the Sun's Energy

Vegetables and Fruits are the superheroes of our diet, offering a powerhouse of nutrients and fibre. But have you ever heard of the distinction between Surya and Chandra vegetables? Surya, Sanskrit for sun, refers to vegetables (and fruit of course) that thrive in sunlight! Consuming these vibrant, sun-soaked veggies infuses us with a radiant energy that positively impacts both body and mind. On the flip side, some say that lunar vegetables, like eggplants and potatoes, should be enjoyed in moderation due to their unique energy. It's all about cultivating a garden of health, one Surya vegetable at a time, but I do love mama Chandra (moon) , so I will never tell you not to eat them :) Also, talking about Surya : spend time in the sun, anytime you can! This time of the year, you can basque in the sun and feel blissful apricity; that subtle warmth on our skin, from the winter sun.

2. Hydrate and Elevate: Cheers to Life-Giving Water

Water is not just a necessity; it's the elixir of life. With over 65% of our bodies composed of water, staying hydrated is a game-changer. This miracle liquid not only keeps us focused and concentrated but also enhances our yogic presence. The next time you roll out your yoga mat, ensure you're sipping on good quality, clean and filtered water A well-hydrated body is a focused body, ready to dive into the depths of each pose with mindfulness and grace.

3. Ginger Magic: Ignite Your Inner Fire

Picture this: a warm cup of ginger tea before your yoga practice. Ginger, with its cleansing properties and robust yang energy, stimulates the kidneys and ignites vitality within. Just as spices are integral to Indian practices like Ayurveda, incorporating ginger into our routine adds a touch of warmth to our digestive system. Let the fire within, fueled by ginger, guide you towards balance and harmony on your yoga journey.

4. Eat Little, Feel Full: The Wisdom of Moderation

In a world accustomed to excess, the age-old wisdom of consuming only until you're 80% full is a beacon of health. Japanese and Indian cultures have long embraced this philosophy, believing that a nourished body, not a full one, paves the way for optimal well-being. Adopting a plant-based diet amplifies this experience, allowing us to feel satisfied and yet, light. The path to a heightened state of consciousness begins with mindful eating.

5. Pray Before You Eat: A Ritual of Gratitude

In our fast-paced lives, the act of blessing our food before consumption is a practice often overlooked. Centuries-old and rooted in mindfulness, this ritual fosters a sense of stillness and connectivity to our sustenance. Taking a moment to express gratitude for the nourishment before us brings us into the present, creating a serene and undistracted eating experience. Much like yoga, it's about being fully present to savor the goodness that food bestows upon us, nourishing both body and soul.

In conclusion, these five small changes aren't just about what's on your plate; they're about the energy you absorb and translate into action. As you embark on this journey, remember: eating is a form of yoga, an activity that shapes perfect physical and mental health. Let's infuse our lives with the wisdom of Surya , embracing the yoga of immensity, fulfillment, abundance, eternity, and absolute splendor. Namaste!

“As I have already told you, the most perfect yoga I have ever found is Surya yoga, for it is the yoga of immensity, the yoga of fulfillment and abundance, the yoga of eternity and absolute splendor” Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov 

 A version of this article is available in OM YOGA MAGAZINE  JANUARY 2015 ISSUE