What is a yoga diet? And what should you eat before and after yoga classes?

In essence, a yoga diet is a healthy one based in Ayurvedic principles and the consumption of sattvic foods like wholemeal grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and legumes and teas. But importantly, ayurveda philosophy believes that every body is different and will thrive off slightly different foods. What’s more, one of the philosophical teachings of yoga – ahimsa – affects the diets of many yogis. This limb translates as non-harming and caused many yogis to adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet. Some would argue our food choices are inexplicably linked to our spiritual development, which is perhaps why so many yogis have chosen to go meat-free.

In terms of actual yoga food groups and meals, like we said, please bear in mind that every ones constitution and digestion are different, so what is great for one person might not be suitable for another. We are only here to offer suggestions, for the best results you’ll have to experiment with your own diet before and after a yoga class and be mindful how your body responds. It’s all part of the process of self-discovery and you can make nutrition and diet a part of your yoga journey by consciously being aware of what you’re putting into your body, and feeling and observing how it’s affecting your performance.

In general, try to stay away from processed foods before and after a yoga class and avoid consuming lots of chemicals and stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, and sugar. Instead, focus on whole foods, fresh fruit and vegetables, and try to eat light portions that will leave you feeling energized and not full or lethargic. Dark leafy greens, like kale or spinach, are great to eat for yoga, as is raw cacao for a natural energy boost. For a yoga breakfast, try a bowl of porridge topped with some fresh berries – full of antioxidants and the oats will give you a slow release of energy for your yoga class. A lemon water or herbal tea can be a great option to drink before or after yoga to help cleanse and hydrate the body. And any kind of plant based protein, like tofu, quinoa, lentils, or even broccoli, is great for your muscular strength and recovery.

For anything you do in life, it is important to eat a balanced diet of wholefoods that gives you enough fibre, protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals to sustain and satiate you. And if you think about the things you drink and eat before and after a yoga class as nourishing and restoring your body, you might be inclined to make slightly healthier choices – a diet of excessive caffeine and sugar, for example, is likely not going to help you feel calm and grounded during a yoga class. An effective yoga meal should nourish your tissues with nutrients and fuel your practice from the inside out with vitality.
For more information about yoga diet please visit:

https://www.krantiyoga.com/food-and-kitchen.html