|
India has long been known as a land of spiritual wisdom and online holistic wellness centre health practices. It’s also a place where vegetarianism and veganism are deeply ingrained in cultural traditions, dating back thousands of years. So why do people often say, "Look to India if you want to turn vegetarian or vegan"? What is it about Indian cuisine and lifestyle that makes it so conducive to plant-based living?
This blog will discuss the long history of vegetarianism and veganism in India, its connections to Ayurveda healing, yoga for chakra healing and spirituality, and why anybody looking to live a better, more thoughtful lifestyle may still benefit from this age-old culinary philosophy.
India’s plant-based eating is not just a trend; it’s a way of life rooted in ancient practices and spiritual wisdom. This tradition is woven into the fabric of daily life, and for good reason. India offers an incredible variety of plant-based foods that provide nourishment for the body and mind. What makes this way of eating so effective, and why is it still relevant today? Let’s explore the powerful connection between India, plant-based eating, and overall well-being.
Vegetarian and vegan diets have been practiced in India for thousands of years, long before they gained popularity in the West. The country's strong cultural and spiritual ties to food are reflected in the fact that around 30% of Indians are said to lead vegetarian lives. However, why did veganism and vegetarianism gain such popularity in India?
A deep regard for all living things is at the core of Indian vegetarianism. Many Indian spiritual traditions, such as Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism, are based on the idea of ahimsa, or non-violence. For many people, a plant-based diet is the most moral option since it encourages people to stay away from harming any living thing.
Ayurveda's notion of sattva (purity) encourages consuming fresh, natural, and plant-based foods in addition to ahimsa. These ideas, which are ingrained in India's spiritual and cultural traditions, promote eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds since they give the body the nutrition it needs to flourish.
The shift toward vegetarianism and veganism in India wasn’t driven by health trends or the need to lose weight. It was, and continues to be, driven by an ethical, spiritual, and holistic view of life. But what does this ancient connection to food have to do with modern living?
The ancient Indian holistic system known as Ayurveda is a major force behind the advancement of plant-based diets. According to Ayurveda, food serves as medicine for the body, mind, and soul in addition to being fuel. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, food should be consumed in a way that supports optimal health and balances the body's energy, or doshas.
Why is a plant-based diet so strongly encouraged by Ayurveda? Plant-based diets are naturally sattvic (pure), meaning they promote harmony, balance, and clarity in the body and mind, according to Ayurveda. Everyone can benefit from a plant-based lifestyle, regardless of body type or health requirements, because these foods are also easier to digest and can be customised to fit individual doshas.
In Ayurveda, food is not just about nutrients; it’s also about the energetic qualities of different foods. Plants, in their natural state, are seen as life-enhancing and nourishing, helping to detoxify and cleanse the body, enhance mental clarity, and increase vitality. Whether you follow Ayurveda or not, the wisdom of this system underscores the value of plant-based foods for sustaining long-term health and well-being.
In India, food is not just about taste; it’s about nourishment at every level of being—physical, mental, and spiritual. In many Indian spiritual traditions, food is seen as a gift from the divine and is meant to be enjoyed with mindfulness and gratitude.
Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism all place a strong emphasis on the value of satvic food, which is food that is harm-free, wholesome, and pure. Consuming plant-based foods is frequently regarded as a spiritual practice that enables people to develop compassion, live in balance with the environment, and align their energies with higher awareness. Many Indians take seriously the link between spiritual development and food, which has led to a mindful eating culture that cultivates a profound regard for all living things.
What if food could be your spiritual practice? What if each bite you took had the power to uplift not just your body, but your soul as well? This is the secret behind India’s approach to eating—food is seen as a sacred ritual that nourishes both the physical and spiritual aspects of life.
Indian cuisine is a treasure trove of plant-based foods, with countless dishes that are naturally vegetarian or vegan. From spicy lentil curries to fragrant vegetable biryanis, India offers an array of delicious, nutrient-packed meals that are perfect for anyone looking to embrace plant-based eating.
One of the best things about Indian food is its variety. Each region has its own unique plant-based dishes, and the use of spices is central to Indian cooking. Spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and cinnamon not only add flavor to meals but also have powerful healing properties that support digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity.
Plant-based proteins are also abundant in Indian cuisine. Indian kitchens are stocked with staples like chickpeas, lentils, tofu, and paneer (a sort of cheese, for vegetarians but not vegans), which are high in protein and vital elements.
There are many plant-based foods in Indian cuisine, such as simple dal (lentil soup) or the more elaborate vegetable curry, which makes it easier to switch to a vegetarian or vegan diet. Indian cuisine is ideal for anyone wishing to experiment with plant-based eating because it blends flavour, nutrition, and a strong sense of tradition.
When Mark, first decided to transition to a plant-based diet, he found himself overwhelmed by the choices available and unsure of where to start. But after a trip to India, Mark discovered a whole new way of thinking about food. India’s approach to plant-based eating, deeply rooted in spirituality and Ayurveda, inspired him to embrace a diet that nourished my body on all levels.
Mark began to incorporate more Indian-inspired dishes into his daily routine, such as chickpea curries, vegetable stews, and fragrant rice pulavs. Not only did he feel more energized, but also experienced a deeper sense of peace and alignment with his values. Mark, now a vegan eater, concludes in his own words, “The connection between food, spirituality, and well-being became clearer, and my plant-based eating journey felt more purposeful than ever.”
At Aatmashanti Wellness, we understand the powerful connection between food, spirituality, and well-being. Our platform offers resources and guidance to help you embrace a plant-based lifestyle, drawing on the wisdom of Ayurveda, vegan eating habits, and holistic self-care practices. Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or looking to deepen your practice, we are here to support you on your journey.
Explore our community, tools, and advice at www.aatamashantiwellness.com, and begin your journey towards holistic health right now.
India’s deep connection to vegetarian and vegan eating is more than just a cultural preference—it’s a lifestyle that promotes health, compassion, and spiritual growth. Whether you’re drawn to the healing wisdom of Ayurveda or the vibrant diversity of Indian cuisine, there’s a rich tradition in India that supports plant-based eating as a path to holistic well-being.
Are you ready to embrace a plant-based lifestyle that nourishes both body and soul? Join Aatmashanti Wellness today and discover the transformative power of eating right, Ayurveda, and mindful living. Let us guide you on your journey toward a healthier, more compassionate, and spiritually aligned life.
I had joined cross fit and yoga program for few weeks under Shreya, she is an expert and conscientious person. She also keeps on motivating as and when needed, guided us regarding what is good for our health. Her workouts had great impact on my health. It was pleasure working out with her.
- Sylive
The experience was very thrilling. The advice which was given by Shreya ma'am about the daily diet was effective. I also went to other classes but they were not good as this one. The exercises which we did were of different types and it improved my skills too.
- Kiran
A truly incredible coach. Who will encourage you and the meal plans are definitely healthy and keeps you full. The exercises also help you loose weight and gain more muscle mass. I feel fresh and healthy now that I am following the plan. Thanks Shreya your incredible.
- Shita Shetty
On behalf of Indira Institute of Business Management, we would like to express our appreciation and gratitude to you and your team for the enthralling session conducted on, "The Importance of Fitness". It was the need of the hour, and we are confident that our students will be inspired to pursue their fitness goals after this wonderful and energetic session.
- Dr. M. Sreedharan
This is an amazing place to work out. Shreya and her team keep us on our toes (sometimes literally) and keep us motivated and energized throughout the session. The various types of exercises conducted by her keeps this class from being monotonous. Enjoying it thoroughly.
- Aswathy
