October 10 is celebrated as World Mental Health Day every year for creating awareness and educating the people about mental health. On this occasion, let’s throw some light on the fact on how the food we eat influences our physical functioning as well as the nature of our thoughts. In other words, food influences the mental health of a person. Navratri is a time of the year when the “Satvik diet” influences the mind as well as spirit.

Exploring the mystery behind the word ‘Satvik’

Satvik diet basically means a light and healthy diet, which does not include any extreme tastes-too sour, too sweet or too salty. It’s the one that purifies our body, mind and soul. The food that is close to nature and minimally processed is the ‘Satvik’ one. The food should be consumed within three to four hours of preparation.

Probing the ‘Tamasic’ diet

Tamasic foods are those that are prepared by harming the living beings (meat, fish etc.). They are stale and reheated, artificially prepared foods or too oily foods. They dull the mind and cause confusion and disorientation.

Comparing the Satvik Navratra diet with Tamasic diet

People in the modern era believe that there is no relation in science and rituals. But this is not true as far as fasting in concerned. The ultimate aim of fasting is to purify and detoxify the body. Talking about Navratra, we can’t say that it deprives our body of some nutrients. The foods allowed in this fast are all wholesome ‘superfoods’, loaded with essential protein (amaranth), minerals and vitamins (fruits and vegetables), complex carbohydrates (buckwheat) etc.

This Satvik diet is followed during the seasonal change from autumn to winter, when our body’s lowered immunity makes it more prone to infections and diseases. But the Navratra fast comes at the perfect time with a perfect blend of science and rituals, offering foods to boost our immunity.

Even Ayurveda suggests that Tamasic foods are not good for the health in the long run. But the Satvik diet ( followed in Navratra) aims towards increased longevity.

Satvik eating is the best if you want to promote clear thinking and concentration power. Heavy foods slow both you, and your mind.

Flours that are gluten-free

The modern era with increased obesity has related inflammation with gluten. Gluten-free alternatives are healthier. And all the traditional flours consumed in Navratri are all gluten free: buckwheat (kuttu) flour, water chestnut (singhara) flour, amaranth (rajgura) flour.

Magic of rock salt

Rock salt or sendha namak used in Navratra over common salt is a healthy option for lowering blood pressure and absorbing nutrients better.

No foods that are heavy

All the heavy foods that cause bloating and acidity are a big no in Navratra- onion, garlic, lentils, legumes, asafoetida, mustard seeds, fenugreek, garam masala, alcohol, meat, poultry, coffee etc.

The final word

The whole structure of Navratra fast is build around the idea of healthy lifestyle and natural detox regimen. Satvik diet goes well for healthy mind and soul. Keet the vibe of Satvik diet alive this navratra by focusing on mental health.

Happy Navratra 2018!