The Sattvic Diet is rooted in the principle of Sattva, one of the three Gunas or qualities of consciousness described in Ayurveda. Sattva represents purity, lightness, and clarity — the qualities that promote harmony and balance in body, mind, and spirit. The Sattvic Diet is composed of foods that are fresh, pure, and naturally occurring in nature, devoid of artificial additives, stimulants, or toxins. The Sattvic Retreat Diet offers a powerful pathway to vibrant health, inner peace, and spiritual awakening. By embracing the principles of Sattva and nourishing body and spirit with fresh, pure, and prana-rich foods, individuals can experience profound transformation on all levels of their being. As we embark on this journey of self-discovery and holistic well-being, may we honor the wisdom of Ayurveda and the sacredness of food as medicine for body, mind, and soul.

Sattva

Light, perception, intelligence, and harmony

These foods are believed to boost energy, aid in mental clarity, produce happiness, and induce calmness. Its goal is to be “pure and balanced” and promote longevity.

Rajas

Energy, activity, emotion, and turbulence

These foods are believed to produce “jealousy, anger, unfaithfulness, fantasies, and selfishness.” This type of diet is recommended for leaders and fighters.

Tamas

Inertia, darkness, dullness, and resistance

These foods are believed to “increase pessimism, weakness, laziness, and doubt”.

 

KEY PRINCIPLES

The foundation of the Sattvic Diet is whole, plant-based foods that are rich in prana or life force energy. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and herbs form the core of this diet, providing essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals for optimal health and vitality.

Sattvic foods are light, easily digestible, and assimilated by the body, promoting optimal digestion and metabolic function. Meals are prepared with minimal spices and oils, allowing the natural flavours and aromas of the ingredients to shine through.

The Sattvic Diet emphasises the consumption of prana-rich foods that are vibrant, colorful, and alive with energy. Fresh fruits and vegetables, sprouts, nuts, and seeds are abundant sources of prana, nourishing the body at a cellular level and revitalising the spirit.

Mindful eating is a central tenet of the Sattvic Diet, encouraging individuals to cultivate awareness and presence during meals. Eating slowly, chewing food thoroughly, and savouring each bite fosters a deeper connection to the nourishing qualities of food and enhances digestion.

 

BENEFITS OF THE SATTVIC DIET

Physical Health

The Sattvic Diet supports optimal physical health by providing the body with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber. By eliminating processed foods, refined sugars, and artificial additives, this diet helps to reduce inflammation, support immune function, and promote overall well-being.

Mental Clarity

Sattvic foods nourish the mind and promote mental clarity, focus, and concentration. By avoiding heavy, tamasic foods that dull the mind, individuals experience greater alertness, creativity, and cognitive function.

Emotional Balance

The Sattvic Diet fosters emotional balance and stability by promoting harmony between body, mind, and spirit. Prana-rich foods nourish the subtle energy centers of the body, promoting feelings of joy, peace, and contentment.

Spiritual Growth

At its core, the Sattvic Diet serves as a catalyst for spiritual growth and evolution. By purifying the body and mind, individuals can awaken to higher states of consciousness, deepen their spiritual practice, and cultivate a profound sense of inner peace and unity with the universe.

 

FOODS TO BE INCLUDED

  • All fresh fruit and vegetables (except onions and garlic)
  • Whole grains
  • Nuts
  • Legumes
  • Dairy (except eggs)
  • Herbal teas
  • Sweet spices (cinnamon, cardamom, mint, basil, turmeric, ginger, cumin, fennel, also in small amounts thyme, oregano, black pepper, marjoram)
  • Plant-based oils (sesame, sunflower, olive oil)
  • Ghee

 

FOODS TO BE EXCLUDED

  • Added sugar
  • Onion, garlic, vinegar, tomatoes
  • Meat, fish, and poultry
  • Eggs
  • Processed foods
  • Artificial sugar
  • Alcohol and caffeine
  • Spicy, fried, and overly cooked foods