Everyone knows a little about Ayurveda, right? Stuff like ghee is good, spices are an effective way to heal from cold and cough, turmeric milk is the perfect bedtime drink. These are the basic stuff that everyone is aware of. But Ayurveda is a way more detailed and incorporates an entire way of living. If you are a wellness seeker and have some basic idea of this ancient science, I then I am sure you are curious about the things you didn’t know about Ayurveda.

To put it simply, Ayurveda provides knowledge on how to live a balanced life, with the mind and body in complete union. Also, if you are dealing with chronic pain, Ayurveda can be your answer. But today, we will talk about the rules of eating, as per this Indian science. I have following these 10 rules for many years ( more or less) and it’s really beneficial for balancing the dosha. Don’t know your dosha? Then take this online test and find out. Read more: All That You Need To Know About The Ayurvedic Diet

So, let’s jump right in.

Rule 1 # Food must be hot

Warm meals are essential for healthy digestion. Always include fresh salad if available in the amount of no more than 30% of your whole meal. Meals of just salads or fruits are not sufficient on its own and should be accompanied with properly cooked food. Also Read: Healthy Vegan Tacos for Special Days

Rule 2 #  Food must be unctuous, moist and oily

Dry foods like sandwiches and dry roasted meals are very difficult for the digestive system to process, always include warm, moist food in your daily diet.

Rule 3  # The food should be taken in proper quantities

Because the size of your stomach is about the size of your both fists closed and fitted together, one should never eat more than 2/3 of that quantity. 1/3 of the stomach should stay empty as it is needed for proper digestion. Also read: 5 Satvik Food Items That You Must Store In Your Kitchen

Rule 4 # The food should be taken only after the previous meal is fully digested

As a general rule, the next main meal should be consumed at least 3-4 hours after the previous meal.

Rule 5 # The foods should be compatible and include all six tastes

In every meal, one should have all six tastes (sweet, salty, sour, pungent, bitter and astringent) and make sure the foods are compatible to be consumed together.

Rule 6 # Ayurveda is promoting 100% Vegetarian diet

That means no meat, no fish and sea animals, no eggs and no mushrooms. The cows milk and milk products are highly beneficial foods if taken properly.

Rule 7 # Food should be consumed in the right environment

Dining should be in a pleasant, calm environment in the absence of loud noise, music, TV, radio, or any other distractions in a comfortable sitting position on the floor or a chair.

Rule 8 # Food should be consumed in moderate speed

Not too fast but not exceedingly slowly as well. Do not overfill the mouth with food as it is critical to chew well and moisten the food with saliva to aid digestion.

Rule 9 # While eating one should neither talk nor laugh and must concentrate on the food

Be mindful and try to notice and taste all the flavours and to fully enjoy your meal.

Rule 10 # While eating the mind should be calm

Thanks for the food and try to feel your heart filling with warmth and goodness that will create the right environment for the body to benefit the most from the food.

Simple, right? Ready to give it a shot?