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During the festival of Dussehra, which represents the victory of good over evil, eating healthy foods is a great way to start cleaning out your body. We can defeat our own sins in the same way that Lord Rama did with Ravana. Make easy changes to your diet to begin. Ayurveda emphasises the importance of sattvic foods for maintaining inner harmony and mental clarity. Sattvic foods are natural and pure, so they help eliminate poisons and improve both physical and mental health. Including fresh fruits, veggies, and grains in your diet can clean out your body while expelling negativity. In line with the spirit of Dussehra, which means the victory of light over darkness, these foods promote clarity, compassion, and inner peace. By picking Sattvic foods, you support this symbolic cleansing, which lets goodness grow within.
"Sattvic" comes from the Sanskrit word "Sattva," which implies goodness or purity. Pure, clean, and nutritious, Sattvic meals are thought to be beneficial to one's mental and physical health. The primary focus of sattvic cuisine is on whole plant-based components that have not been altered in any way.
Lifestyle Coach, Nidhi Nahata says, “Just as the festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, adopting a Sattvik diet signifies a victory of wellness over impurity within. By choosing natural, plant-based foods devoid of processed ingredients, dairy, meat, onions, garlic, and strong spices, you are not only nourishing your body but also purifying your mind. Sattvik foods such as seasonal fruits, abundant vegetables, whole grains, pulses, sprouts, dried nuts, and seeds, rich in healing properties, bring a sense of calm and positivity, fostering emotional stability. In contrast, tamasic foods such as meat, dairy, fish, eggs, alcohol, cigarettes, and preserved items induce lethargy and hormonal imbalances, as processed foods lack essential nutrients and meat and dairy consumption involves cruelty while excessively spicy rajasic foods ignite restlessness and aggression. This Dusshera, let the essence of Sattvik living purify your being, banishing evil and welcoming a healthier, harmonious you.”
These foods aid digestion, ensuring efficient toxin removal as our body doesn’t require excessive energy to process these foods. Ash gourd juice, a Sattvik staple, acts as a natural cleanser, flushing out impurities from the stomach. Sattvik foods are nutrient-dense, promoting overall health and supporting the body's detoxification processes, she adds.
How can we incorporate Sattvik foods into our daily detox plan? We asked Nidhi. Here’s what she says, “Incorporating Sattvik foods into a daily detox plan involves mindful choices. Start your day with ash gourd juice as it is a powerful detoxifier and a must-have. Include fresh fruits like papayas, guava, and amla for antioxidants. Embrace a variety of vegetables, preferably steamed or in salads, for essential nutrients. Opt for whole grains like brown rice and millet, and incorporate protein through lentils, beans, nuts, and seeds. Herbal teas, especially with ginger or mint, aid digestion. Avoid processed, fried, sugary foods, dairy, and meat. Prioritize herbal spices like turmeric and coriander. Hydration is key, so drink ample water and practice mindful eating. Spend enough time in sunlight as it boosts your immunity by increasing your vitamin D level. This holistic approach fosters not just detoxification but overall well-being.”
She also says “Mindful eating is key; savour each bite, appreciating the natural flavours. Stay hydrated with water and calming herbal teas, aiding digestion and detoxification. Moderation is fundamental; listen to your body's signals of hunger and fullness. Cook with love and intention, infusing your meals with positive energy. Look for seasonal and local produce, respecting the natural rhythm of your surroundings. Incorporate physical activity into your routine, complementing your balanced diet. And always remember, gratitude for the nourishment you receive enhances the Sattvik experience, fostering not just physical health, but profound inner harmony and well-being.”
