Different Healthy Practices

Let’s begin with the Food

Our food should be wholesome and plant-based to impart health.

Why?

Unrefined or least refined plant foods contain fibre, which is very important in preventing and reversing diseases such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, gut disorders, and hormone imbalances. Animal products do not contain a gram of fibre. The micronutrients—vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and antioxidants, available extensively in plant food—act as raw materials for repair, healing and maintaining health.

It has taken me years of learning, unlearning, experimenting, and experiencing with myself and my clients to arrive at these simple yet powerful truths. Let me share the journey with you.

My upbringing unfolded in the unique confluence of naturopathy, yoga, and biochemistry—thanks to my father, a Naturopath, Yoga exponent, and Biochemistry professor. This environment became the fertile ground where my curiosity for understanding the intricate relationship between food and our well-being first took root, without my knowledge.

I pursued a degree in Home Science and later earned my Master’s in Food and Nutrition, securing the top position at Bangalore University. This academic achievement deepened my understanding of the scientific facets of food, its journey through the body, and its impact on health and ill health.

However, my educational path was not without challenges. The principles I learnt contradicted the traditional food system ingrained in me through Nature Cure and Yoga philosophy. This discrepancy sparked a quest for harmony, leading me to explore and learn from experts across diverse fields.

The dichotomy between mechanistic and reductionistic theories of nutrition and the inherent complexity of both the human body and food systems became glaringly apparent. I realised that isolating individual compounds or focusing solely on specific nutrients or organs was insufficient. This revelation prompted a shift towards a holistic approach—a synthesis of Nature Cure, Yoga philosophy, and modern Nutritional Science—which I term “Holistic Nutrition.”. It also formed the basis of my practice of “Whole Plant-Based Foods,” now widely known as WFPB – Whole Food Plant-Based.

This paradigm shift became the cornerstone of my journey. Initially met with scepticism, the concept of Holistic Nutrition eventually gained recognition, reshaping how we perceive the intricate interplay between the body and food. I coined it as “Holistic Nutrition” decades ago, and now this approach is gaining popularity around the world.

As a nutritionist, my initial focus was on guiding individuals to adopt healthier eating habits (Aahaara). I soon recognised that holistic well-being encompassed more than just dietary choices. Integrating principles from Nature Cure, I emphasised raw food and lifestyle changes (Vihaara), understanding that elimination, physical activity, and adequate rest (slowing down) were pivotal components.

However, the quest for optimal health didn’t end there. Realising that a profound change required addressing the mind—entering the realm of Vichaara or mindful introspection—I expanded my approach. Recognising the impact of thoughts on the body’s biochemistry, I integrated mental well-being into the holistic framework.

The human system transcends the confines of mere anatomy and physiology; it is a complex integration of mind and body, as acknowledged by science. However, our scriptures reveal a deeper understanding—surpassing the realms explored by modern science. Our ancestors delved into the intricacies of the human system, categorising it into five layers of existence—a profound wisdom that extends beyond the grasp of a single lifetime.

To embark on a journey towards health, it is imperative to acknowledge and comprehend each of these five layers. The convergence of these layers has the potential to catalyse a magical transformation—the reversal of diseases.

Let’s begin this exploration with Annamaya Kosha, where “Anna” denotes food, emphasising that our physical body is a manifestation of what we consume. This layer holds a pivotal place in my work, focusing on the optimal nourishment required for the efficient functioning and health of Annamaya Kosha.

Annamaya Kosha, considered the gross body or Sthula Sharira, coexists with the subtler layers—Pranamaya Kosha (PK), Manomaya Kosha (MK), Vijnanamaya Kosha (VK), and the causal body, Anandamaya Kosha. Anandamaya Kosha encapsulates the essence of Indian philosophy—finding bliss within rather than seeking it externally. The pursuit of happiness outside ourselves is a misguided endeavour. Our roots lie in recognising the richness of our cultural and systemic heritage as Indians. Let us take pride in our profound wisdom, practice it in our lives, and share it globally.

The pathway to health involves nurturing each layer, not just the inputs into Annamaya Kosha.

Witnessing the magical transformation and the joy of individuals becoming healthier and happier day by day is a blessing.

I invite all nutritionists to consider this approach, for as nutritionists, we possess the power to administer this holistic method to our clients and make this world much healthier.

My journey has been marked by word-of-mouth referrals, eschewing conventional marketing. A single person experiencing true health becomes a catalyst, sharing their positive experience within their community. This ripple effect showcases the potency of our approach.

Spirituality, unrelated to religion, is the pursuit of self-understanding—Atma Gyan. As a student of Vedanta, I comprehend the profound insights of our ancestors, urging us not to lose this ancient wisdom. Let us, therefore, remain connected to our roots, for therein lies the purpose of life and the enduring legacy of our cultural heritage. 

While my formal education lies in nutrition, I have also delved into the principles of Naturopathy and Yoga to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern science. Gratitude fills my heart for the teachers, mentors, gurus, and my family whose support has shaped the person I am today.

Drawing from the rich heritage of Indian wisdom, I blended Nutrition, Nature Cure, and Yoga philosophy into a comprehensive holistic approach that addresses the body, mind, and soul.

What I share on social media, and what I teach and coach, is the distillation of 35 years of learning and unlearning. I trust that these reflections and insights help readers in their own journeys. Thank you for taking the time to read, reflect, and adopt the simple concepts I share.