Positive Pranic Food - Negative and Positive Pranic Food List (2024)

The Sattvic Diet: A Comprehensive Guide

You know, food is such a fascinating, enjoyable, and vital part of our lives, isn’t it? I’ve heard from many people that it feels like we’re all on this never-ending quest to find that perfect diet that works just right for our bodies and lifestyles. Some people eat to fuel up for marathons, others chow down to build muscles, some focus on their meals to enhance their meditation experience, and there are people for whom eating is a form of meditation all in itself (mindful eating). As for me, I’m all about finding a balanced, whole-food way of eating that nourishes my body, keeping me energized and feeling great.

I want to be clear that I’m not advocating for any restrictive diets unless they’re required by health conditions. We’re all unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. It’s essential to listen to our bodies and understand their needs. Our bodies send signals, and learning to interpret them can help us make the best choices for our individual health.

Food is not only fuel, but it’s also a building material for our bodies. The kind of food we eat plays a significant role in the way our bodies look and function. It can make us happy, energetic, sluggish, satisfied, jittery, sleepy, and so much more. It’s truly amazing how powerful food can be, and we are in charge of it.

Think about it – when your car runs out of gas, you go to a gas station and refuel, right? Immediately after, you’re confidently driving off, ready to take on a trip. Would it make sense if, right after refueling, your car had to stay put for a couple of hours because it went into a “gas coma”? Of course not!

In the same way, after fueling our bodies, we should be able to take on the day with vigor and joy. Unfortunately, many of us descend into a “food coma.” Then, we need coffee, tea, and other stimulants to pick ourselves up and go on with the day. It’s sad that a lot of people take this as a fact of life and an inevitable state of being.

In this article, I’ll take a closer look at the Sattvic diet, which focuses on “Positive Pranic” foods that ignite life energy within, nourishing our bodies with whole, plant-based foods that support our health and well-being. Regardless of your background or interest in yoga and meditation, this diet offers some valuable insights into mindful eating and overall wellness. Plus, I’ll share some tips and tricks to help you on your way toward a balanced lifestyle.

Unraveling the Mysteries of the Sattvic Diet

Now, let’s take a deeper look into the Sattvic diet and see what makes it so unique. As I mentioned earlier, the Sattvic diet is also known as the “Positive Pranic diet”, which is centered around foods that are supposed to promote a sense of balance and well-being. It’s rooted in Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine that believes food can affect not only our physical health but also our mental and emotional states.

The Sattvic diet is based on the concept of the three gunas, which are fundamental energies or qualities found in everything, including the food we eat. These are:

1. Sattva (Positive Pranic): Foods that are pure, light, and promote clarity and spiritual growth.
2. Rajas (Negative Pranic): Foods that are stimulating, often leading to restlessness and agitation.
3. Tamas (Neutral Pranic): Foods that are heavy, dull, and can lead to lethargy and stagnation.

Sattvic foods are meant to nourish our bodies and minds, helping us maintain a sense of inner balance and harmony. They include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, dairy products, and mild spices. These foods are believed to support clarity, focus, and overall well-being.

On the other hand, Rajasic and Tamasic foods are thought to create imbalances in our bodies and minds. Rajasic foods, like spicy dishes, caffeinated beverages, and heavily processed foods, can lead to overstimulation and agitation. Tamasic foods, such as meat, alcohol, and fried foods, can lead to lethargy and mental fog.

I know it may sound a bit mystical, but the idea is to choose foods that support our body’s natural rhythms and energy levels. By focusing on Sattvic foods, we can create a diet that helps us feel more centered, balanced, and energized throughout the day.

Now, I’m not suggesting you toss out your favorite chocolate bar or banish your morning coffee forever. The key here is balance and mindfulness. It’s about understanding how the foods we eat impact our bodies and making conscious choices that support our well-being.

The Positive Pranic (Sattvic) Diet: A Quick Guide

Focus on Wholesome

So, let’s chat about the star players in the Sattvic diet: fresh, natural, and wholesome foods. Imagine yourself in a lush garden or farmers market, surrounded by vibrant fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. These are the ingredients you’ll want to fill your plate with, as they’re packed with nutrients and life energy. Rather than focusing on what to avoid, celebrate these nourishing and vibrant foods that make us feel amazing! After all, there’s no real need for processed and refined foods like white flour, sugar, and anything with an ingredient list that reads like a chemistry experiment.

Cooking Up Some Good Vibes

Now, let’s talk about how to turn these beautiful ingredients into mouthwatering meals, because it’s not just about what you eat but how you cook it, too. Steaming, boiling, and sautéing are your best friends, for sure. While deep-frying and charring are like those high school frenemies you’ve outgrown. Plus, using fresh herbs and spices is like adding a dash of magic to your meals, enhancing both flavor and Pranic energy.

But there’s more to food preparation than just cooking methods. The emotional and mental state of the person preparing the food is just as important as the ingredients themselves. For me personally, cooking has never been a chore, but rather an opportunity for a beautiful offering, a creative outlet, and an expression of love and appreciation.

So, every time I’m in the kitchen, I make a conscious effort to infuse my food with positive energy and intentions. Taking a moment to set a positive intention or express gratitude for the ingredients you’re using is an essential part of meal prep. Set the mood, turn on your favorite music, and think of something pleasant while you cook. You might be surprised at how much more enjoyable and satisfying the cooking process becomes when you embrace it as an act of love and nourishment. By doing so, you’re not only creating delicious meals, but you’re also fostering a deeper connection with your food, your body, and your overall well-being.

The Secret Ingredient

Let’s talk about a little something that can make a world of difference: gratitude. It might seem like a small thing, but trust me, it can have a huge impact on our experience with food and our overall well-being.

When we express gratitude for our food, we acknowledge the journey it took to get to our plates—from the farmers who grew it to the people who transported it, and even the sun and rain that nourished it. This practice allows us to connect more deeply with our meals, our environment, and the world around us.

Before each meal, take a moment to pause and give thanks for the nourishment you’re about to receive. You can simply express gratitude silently or say a few words out loud. This small act of appreciation can help you feel more present and connected during your meal, transforming eating from a mundane task into a nourishing experience.

When we approach our food with gratitude, we’re more likely to savor it, enjoy it, and feel satisfied. So, go ahead and sprinkle some gratitude and appreciation into your life, and watch as it transforms your relationship with food and everything around you.

Finding Your Perfect Balance

Okay, so we’ve got our fresh, lovingly prepared meals; what’s next? The Sattvic way of eating is all about balance. So, let’s talk about mindful eating for a moment, which naturally leads us to find our own perfect balance. When we pay attention to our body’s signals and eat with intention, we’re more likely to feel satisfied without overindulging.

Mindful eating involves savoring each bite, chewing slowly, and being fully present during your meal. It means turning off distractions, like the TV or your phone, and truly enjoying the flavors, textures, and aromas of your food.

It is like cherry on top of the Sattvic sundae! Take a moment to savor each bite of your meal, like you’re a food critic trying to describe the flavors and textures in a bestselling novel. You can see more about developing you mindful eating practice here 👉🏻 Mindful Eating: A Path to Greater Health and Happiness, where I unfold it in greater detail; and check out this 👉🏻 A Comprehensive Guide to Mindful Eating

So, as you cultivate this practice, you’ll find that you become more in tune with your body’s needs, allowing you to eat just the right amount without feeling deprived or uncomfortably full. By embracing the art of mindful eating, you’ll discover the joy of feeling nourished and satisfied without any guilt or restriction.

By weaving these principles into your daily routine, you’ll soon see how the Positive Pranic (Sattvic) way of cooking and eating works its magic on your overall health and well-being. Just see, this way of eating is not just a set of rules – it’s a mindful, nourishing relationship with food that’ll have you feeling like the vibrant, radiant being you were always meant to be.

Food Categories in the Sattvic Diet

Positive Pranic (Sattvic) Foods

Fruits, Vegetables and Berries

Embrace the rainbow! Fruits, vegetables, and berries are the shining stars of the Sattvic diet. They are full of life energy, vitamins, and minerals that keep our bodies nourished and thriving. Opt for a wide variety of fresh, seasonal, and organic produce to keep things interesting and vibrant.

This food group includes most vegetables (except potatoes, tomatoes, garlic, onion, and eggplant). All fruits and berries, whether fresh or dried, are considered to be highly pranic, making them an essential part of the Sattvic diet. These nourishing foods provide a multitude of health benefits and infuse your meals with vitality and energy.

Whole Grains

Whole grains like rice, buckwheat, barley, millet, oats, teff, spelt, and more are a wholesome part of the Sattvic diet and provide exceptional nourishment. To get the most out of their nutritional goodness, be sure to soak or sprout them before cooking. (You can find a complete guide here >> How to Soak ). And here’s a little tip: if you can, try to eat cooked grains within 3 hours to keep their pranic energy at its best.

Whole grains provide sustained energy and are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. So go ahead and mix up your meals with a variety of these wholesome grains, and you’ll be well on your way to a balanced, Sattvic lifestyle.

Legumes

This category includes mung beans, lentils, yellow split peas, chickpeas, beans, organic tofu, and more. Just like grains, they should be soaked or sprouted before cooking. Legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. When legumes are combined with whole grains, they offer a complete protein source. They’re a versatile and nourishing staple in the Sattvic diet, perfect for creating delicious and satisfying meals.

Nuts, Seeds, and Oils

Nuts and seeds are a fantastic source of healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients. Go for almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds to add a satisfying crunch and an energy boost to your meals.

Soaking raw nuts and seeds is the way to go, as it’s better for digestion. If you prefer a little crunch, you can slightly roast them in smaller amounts. Popular choices include peanuts, hemp seeds, chia seeds, coconuts, pine nuts, walnuts, pecans, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flax seeds. For almonds, soak them for at least 8 hours and remove the skin before eating.

It’s essential to soak almonds at least overnight. Almond skins contain a mild, acidic, and astringent form of cyanide. Even though the amount of cyanide is minuscule, it can be toxic to the liver ^{(1, 2)}. Soaking and blanching almonds help remove cyanide along with other digestive inhibitors.

When it comes to oils, always opt for high-quality, cold-pressed varieties. Red palm oil is considered to be highly pranic. Most oils are best consumed raw, but some, like ghee, sesame oil, palm oil, and coconut oil, can be used for cooking with heat. You know that quality matters, so choose wisely for a truly Sattvic experience.

Sweeteners

When it comes to sweetening your Sattvic dishes, choose natural and unprocessed options like raw, unfiltered honey, jaggery, and dates. Remember, it’s essential not to cook honey or mix it with boiling water. Instead, consume it cold or stir it into warm water with a temperature no higher than 40°C (104°F). By opting for these natural sweeteners, you’ll add a touch of wholesome sweetness to your meals without the need for refined sugars.

Dairy Products

The Sattvic diet is traditionally a lacto-vegetarian diet that allows for high-quality dairy products. If you choose to include dairy in your diet, it’s essential to pick organic, cruelty-free, grass-fed, and hormone-free options like milk (preferably A2 milk), yogurt, and ghee. But if you’re not consuming dairy, you can check out some of these recipes here:

Neutral Pranic Food

Neutral Pranic foods, like tomatoes and potatoes, don’t have a significant positive or negative effect on our energy levels or overall well-being. However, they can sometimes lead to feelings of lethargy or sluggishness, especially when consumed in larger quantities.

Personally, I eat these foods sparingly and mostly at dinner time. But, it’s worth noting that if you have joint problems or swelling in your legs, it might be better to avoid neutral pranic foods altogether.

While the list of neutral pranic foods is small, it’s essential to be aware of their effects on your body and make mindful choices about when and how to incorporate them into your diet. Balancing your meals with an emphasis on positive pranic foods will help you maintain optimal energy levels and overall well-being.

Negative Pranic Food

This food group contains stimulants (Rajasic foods) and sedative foods (Tamasic foods).

Tamasic foods

Tamasic foods are considered to have a dulling or sedative effect on the body and mind. While they might provide some nourishment, they can also contribute to sluggishness, lethargy, and a lack of mental clarity. Examples of Tamasic foods include:

1. Overripe, stale, or spoiled fruits and vegetables: These foods have lost much of their pranic energy and can contribute to a dull, heavy feeling in the body.
2. Alcohol: While alcohol might provide a temporary relaxation effect, it can also lead to a foggy, unclear mind and reduced energy levels.
3. Meat and eggs: These animal-based foods can be heavy on the digestive system and may lead to feelings of lethargy and sluggishness.
4. Processed and packaged foods: Foods that have been heavily processed or preserved often contain additives and chemicals that can negatively impact our overall well-being.
5. Leftovers: Foods that have been cooked and left to sit for an extended period of time lose their pranic energy, making them less nourishing and vitalizing.

The reasons for minimizing or avoiding Tamasic foods in a Sattvic diet are to maintain optimal energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being. By focusing on fresh, wholesome, and energizing Sattvic foods, you’ll be promoting a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle that supports both your body and mind.

Rajasic Foods

Rajasic foods are known to stimulate the body and mind, potentially leading to restlessness, aggression, or an overactive mind. They’re typically characterized by being spicy, salty, bitter, or sour. While they might be tempting, it’s best to minimize or avoid these types of foods in a Sattvic diet. Some examples include:

1. Onions and onion, garlic, scallion, shallot, leek, and chives (all members of the Allium family): These strong-tasting vegetables are thought to overstimulate the senses.
2. Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages can lead to restlessness and an overactive mind.
3. Spicy foods: Hot peppers, excessive spices, and other fiery foods can disturb the balance of the body and mind.
4. Refined sugars and artificial sweeteners: These can cause energy spikes and crashes, as well as negatively impact digestion and overall health.
5. Processed and fried foods: Unhealthy fats and additives found in these foods can be detrimental to the body, mind, and energy levels.

The reasons for avoiding Rajasic foods in a Sattvic diet are mainly to maintain a calm, balanced state of mind, as well as to promote a healthy and harmonious lifestyle. By choosing Sattvic foods over Rajasic options, you’ll be fostering a more peaceful, grounded way of life.

Potential Health Benefits of the Positive Pranic (Sattvic) Diet

• Improved Digestion. The Sattvic diet includes a variety of fresh, whole, and easily digestible foods, promoting better digestion and absorption of nutrients. By consuming foods that are naturally suited to our bodies, we can experience improved digestion and overall gut health.
• Mental Clarity and Focus. Sattvic foods are known to have a calming effect on the mind, leading to greater mental clarity and focus. By eliminating stimulants and sedative foods from your diet, you’ll be better equipped to maintain concentration and make clear decisions.
• Enhanced Energy and Vitality. The Sattvic diet consists of foods rich in prana, or life energy. By consuming these energizing and nourishing foods, you’ll experience increased energy levels, vitality, and overall well-being.
• Emotional Balance and Inner Peace. The Sattvic diet encourages a more balanced emotional state and a sense of inner peace. By removing Rajasic and Tamasic foods, which can contribute to emotional imbalances and mental disturbances, you’ll cultivate a more harmonious and grounded lifestyle.
• Potential for Disease Prevention. A Sattvic diet is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which play a crucial role in maintaining good health and preventing diseases. By focusing on whole, unprocessed, and nutrient-dense foods, you’ll be supporting your body’s natural defenses against illness and promoting long-term health.

Challenges and Considerations of the Sattvic Diet

• Restrictiveness and Sustainability. So, let me be real with you. The Sattvic diet can be a bit restrictive, and sticking to it might be tough when you’re out with friends or hitting up your favorite restaurant. But hey, it’s totally okay to enjoy dinner with friends once in a while or have a bite of Grandma’s pie.
  We should savor the food we eat without being paranoid about calorie counts or carbs, fats, or whatever the latest dietary fad is. A healthy relationship with food is essential, so enjoy it fully without hesitation. The harm of stress during eating is far more damaging to your system than any ingredient ever could be. Balance is key, my friend!
• Adapting to Individual Needs. Here’s the thing, we’re all unique snowflakes with our dietary needs, tastes, and health quirks. So when you’re giving the Sattvic diet a go, don’t be afraid to make some adjustments for your specific situation. Maybe you’ve got food allergies, or you’re dealing with a health condition – just tweak the diet so it works for you.
• Consultation with Healthcare Professionals. Before making any significant changes to your diet, it’s always a good idea to chat with a healthcare professional. You know, a nutritionist, dietitian, or your trusty doc. They’ll help you figure out how the Sattvic diet might impact your health and guide you on making the best choices for your body. After all, we want you feeling fabulous, inside and out!

Positive Pranic Recipes and Meal Ideas for a Nourishing Life

Easy Steps to Bring Sattvic Principles into Your Daily Life

1. Begin with gratitude:Before diving into your meal, take a moment to express gratitude for the food on your plate. Acknowledging the nourishment it provides can help you cultivate a mindful eating habit.
2. Choose whole, unprocessed foods:Opt for fresh, organic fruits and veggies, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. These unprocessed, natural foods are the building blocks of a Sattvic diet.
3. Cook with love and intention:Preparing meals with care and positive energy infuses your food with good vibes. Enjoy the process, and your body will thank you for it.
4. Eat in a peaceful environment:Create a calm atmosphere for mealtime, free from distractions like TV and smartphones. This helps you focus on the experience of eating and fully savor the flavors.
5. Listen to your body’s cues:Pay attention to how different foods make you feel. If something leaves you feeling sluggish or bloated, consider replacing it with an alternative.
6. Stay hydrated:Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps to flush out toxins and maintain balance within your body.
7. Incorporate herbs and spices:Use natural flavor enhancers like ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon to add a dash of warmth and depth to your dishes without overwhelming the senses. You can see my staple Spice Mix Recipes here >> Spice Mixes
8. Embrace balance:Sattvic principles encourage balance, so avoid overindulging or restricting yourself too much. Listen to your body and honor its needs.

Keep in mind that adopting any lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to overhaul your entire way of eating overnight. Small, incremental changes can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. So, give it a try and see how these principles can support your journey toward a healthier, more mindful life.

Comparing the Sattvic Diet to Other Plant-Based Diets

Whole Foods Plant-Based Diet

The Sattvic diet and the Whole Foods Plant-Based diet share a lot in common. Both focus on consuming natural, minimally processed foods with plenty of fruits, veggies, grains, and legumes. However, the Whole Foods Plant-Based diet doesn’t emphasize the spiritual aspects of food or restrict foods like onions, garlic, and caffeine, which are considered Rajasic in the Sattvic diet. In short, the Sattvic diet is like a spiritual cousin to the Whole Foods Plant-Based diet.

In my opinion, the Whole Foods Plant-Based diet is the way to go. It’s flexible, accessible, and still prioritizes health and wellness without the spiritual restrictions of the Sattvic diet. Plus, it’s easier to maintain in social situations and allows for a wider variety of flavors and ingredients. So, if you’re looking for a balanced, healthy lifestyle without the spiritual aspect, the Whole Foods Plant-Based diet might just be your perfect match!

Vegetarian Diets

Vegetarian diets come in many shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: no meat! The Sattvic diet is a type of lacto-vegetarian diet that not only excludes meat but also emphasizes the positive pranic qualities of food. While both diets are plant-focused, the Sattvic diet takes it a step further by considering the energy and spiritual impact of what we eat.

Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is famous for its heart-healthy benefits and delicious flavors. It’s a primarily plant-based diet that includes some fish, poultry, and dairy, with an emphasis on whole grains, fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil. While there are some similarities with the Sattvic diet, like the focus on whole foods and plant-based ingredients, the Mediterranean diet doesn’t have the same spiritual or energetic considerations. In other words, the Sattvic diet is like the Mediterranean diet’s soul-searching sibling.

In a Wrap

So, the journey through the Sattvic diet has been quite a ride, right? This way of eating isn’t just about physical health; it’s about nurturing our spiritual side and creating a harmonious balance between body, mind, and soul. When we focus on consuming positive pranic foods, we’re not only fueling our bodies with nutritious and wholesome ingredients, but we’re also lifting our spirits and inviting inner peace and tranquility. The Sattvic diet offers a unique approach to holistic well-being that goes beyond counting calories or macros.

Personalizing the Diet for Optimal Health and Balance

Now, let’s not forget that everyone’s different, and what works for one person might not be the perfect fit for another. So, when it comes to the Sattvic diet, or any diet for that matter, it’s crucial to find what resonates with you and your unique needs. Experiment, adapt, and personalize the diet to create a balanced lifestyle that brings out the best in you. And don’t forget to consult healthcare professionals when making significant dietary changes.

In the end, the Sattvic diet might not be for everyone, but it does offer a unique perspective on food and its role in our lives. Whether you decide to embrace it wholeheartedly or simply incorporate some Sattvic principles into your daily routine, the key is finding balance and harmony in both ways of eating and our lives. Cheers to finding that perfect balance!

Positive, Neutral, and Negative Pranic Food List

How about you?

What is your relationship with food? Have you noticed how certain foods affect you? Or just let me know if this article was helpful to you. Let me know in the comments below.

Be Alive 🌱,
❤ Love, Julia

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