MITAHARA (YOGIC DIET) TO MINDFULNESS TO VALUES: How diet changes the state of mind and instill values

by Hardik Mehta

Mitahara, which translates to “moderate eating” in Sanskrit, is a concept found in many Eastern philosophies and spiritual traditions, including Buddhism and Hinduism. It’s about practicing moderation and mindfulness in one’s diet. However, its application extends beyond just eating habits. It can be used as a tool to instill values in several ways:

  1. Mindfulness and Awareness: By practicing Mitahara, individuals become more mindful of their consumption patterns, which can translate into greater awareness in other areas of life. This mindfulness fosters values like self-discipline, responsibility, and respect for oneself and others.
  2. Moderation and Balance: Mitahara emphasizes not overindulging or depriving oneself. This principle can be applied to other aspects of life, encouraging a balanced approach to work, relationships, and leisure. It instills values such as moderation, harmony, and equilibrium.
  3. Respect for Resources: Practicing Mitahara can lead to a greater appreciation for food and resources, encouraging sustainable and ethical choices. This fosters values like environmental responsibility, gratitude, and conservation.
  4. Health and Well-being: By adopting Mitahara, individuals are likely to experience improved physical health and mental clarity. This reinforces the value of taking care of one’s body and mind, leading to a more holistic approach to personal well-being.
  5. Self-Control and Discipline: Adhering to Mitahara requires self-control and discipline, which can help individuals develop these traits in other areas of their lives. This reinforces values like perseverance, patience, and personal growth.
  6. Ethical Considerations: In many traditions, Mitahara includes choosing foods that are prepared with care and respect for ethical considerations, such as not causing harm to animals. This promotes values like compassion, kindness, and ethical living.

Incorporating Mitahara into daily life can thus be a powerful means of instilling a range of positive values, fostering a more balanced, mindful, and ethical way of living.

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About the Author

Hardik Mehta Co-founder Sayujya Yoga

Hardik Mehta

Hardik is an E-RYT 500 & YACEP (Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider), Yoga Alliance, USA. He has been practicing yoga for the last 9 years. Prior to finding his true calling in Yoga, he was working with various corporates for 12 years in the Retail and eCommerce sector.