In Yoga it is recognised that good digestive health is very much dependent upon the food we eat and our mental and emotional state, not only whilst we are eating, but generally. Developing a healthy diet and proper eating routines bring vibrant health, and also provides us with the opportunity to increase awareness of the inner functions of our body and mind.

There are many Yoga Asanas that promote a strong digestive system, but one very important aspect in digestive health is the food we consume. Proper diet is fundamental for sustaining good health and mental development. Scientific evidence now concurs with what Yogis have said for thousands of years – that humans should be vegetarian. Vegetarian food detoxifies, cleans and purifies the body and increases our resistance to illness. And one of the main precepts of Yoga is “Ahimsa Paramo Dharma” – non-violence is the supreme dharma. If we reflect on this how can we be anything other than vegetarians.

Yogis categorise food according to its qualities and influence on the body and mind:
Sattvic = pure, harmonious, clear, balanced, peaceful
Rajasic = aggressive, restless, fiery, passionate
Tamasic = lazy, lethargic, dark, ignorant

Therefore Yogis recommend that we should eat Sattvic foods, including grains, vegetables, pulses, fruit, nuts, seeds, milk and milk products, giving rise to a balanced and harmonious sense of wellbeing in both body and mind. Awareness is always an important aspect of Yoga and as our practices progress we develop a finer sense for how each food influences us physically and mentally.

Meditation, Pranayam and Relaxation are very beneficial for our digestive health by quietening body and mind and therefore having a wonderfully calming influence on the Nervous System. The Yoga Asanas that promote good digestion generally massage the abdominal organs and promote free flow of the Agni – the body’s digestive fire. Inverted postures also help release trapped toxins and wastes in the digestive system and enhance the digestive fire.

Sitting in Vajrasana for 5 minutes after a meal aids digestion by influencing the Vajra Nadis. Sit on your heels. The knees are together, the trunk and head are upright and aligned. The hands rest on the knees. Breathe freely.

Pavana Muktasana is another movement that is beneficial for the digestive system; it helps with constipation and flatulence and other digestive problems. Lie on your back. Inhaling deeply, bend the right knee and bring it towards the chest. Take hold of the knee with both hands. Exhaling pull it as close as possible to the body. The left leg remains relaxed on the floor. Inhaling place the arms beside the body, straighten the right leg and return it to the floor. Repeat the exercise with the left leg. Three times with each leg.

The practices of “Yoga in Daily Life” are designed to bring about inner balance and harmony. Through love and help for all living beings, respect for life, protection of nature and the environment, a peaceful state of mind, full vegetarian diet, pure thoughts and regular spiritual practices we can achieve what we have been constantly seeking  – sustainable happiness in our everyday life.

If you would like any further information about the many benefits that can be gained from practising “Yoga in Daily Life – the System” please check our website www.yogaindailylife.org.au, the International Yoga in Daily Life website www.yoga-in-daily-life.org or telephone your closest YIDL Centre.