An extensive study of yoga and raw-foodism reveals many correlations and philosophical parallels. Listed below are just five of the major themes shared by both traditions:


Ahimsa (Non-violence)

1) At the core of its teachings the Yoga Sutras instructs us in non-violence, both in thought and action, on every foreseeable level.  It has been said that if we can fully understand and live out this tenet then all other yogic principles will fall into place organically.  Similarly, after some trial and error, most raw-foodists learn that the diet is primarily centered around living in harmony with all creatures thereby moving within nature instead of against it. Importantly, the raw food diet is a plant-based vegan one that eschews the slaughter of animals for food.  [more...]
 

Aiswarya (Self-reliance)

2) Our yoga practice teaches us that, ultimately, we need not be reliant on any external objects, appearances, or even people to find joy, peace, and equanimity.  Within raw-foodism we learn to use the immeasurable and practically inexhaustible gifts that nature has generously given to mankind in order to live a simple, uncluttered life.  A life that is free from the excess desires, diseases, and mental hang-ups that have proliferated in this modern era. [more...]
 

Health & well-being

3) A dedicated practice of yoga asanas (postures) grants us a body that is buoyant, supple and strong.  More important than just good health, this allows the practitioner to feel light and unaware of bodily distractions that might otherwise interfere with the internal practices of contemplation and meditation.  Sensibly executed, raw-foodism also gives us the gift of vibrant health and a certain lightness. This frees us from being limited by our own body, allowing us the energy and focus for creative and spiritual pursuits. [more...]



Vairagya (Non-attachment)

4) The notion of non-attachment to material objects, other people, and even to our own body is another basic precept that is present in nearly all forms of yogic thought.  Likewise,  a simple diet that remains close to nature, without reliance on processed foods, helps us to overcome the nearly universal addiction of taste cravings and sensory indulgence. [more...]

 

Ahamkara (Ego - separateness)

5) As yoga practitioners, our practice grows when we learn to simply get out of the way of our ego driven, analytical mind.  Similarly with raw-foods, we heal ourselves and grow stronger, both physically and mentally, when we allow the body‚s miraculous immune system to do it‚s job with minimal interference from food, processed or otherwise.  By constantly "letting go" of life's excesses and all things temporary we become a true naturalist -- living as one small part of the whole. [more...]