Ahara: The Holistic Approach to Nourishment in Ayurveda
Controlling Your Inputs—Food, Media, and More—Can Improve Your Mental and Emotional Health
Namaste and Greetings,
I cannot start this edition of my newsletter without acknowledging what happened this past Tuesday into Wednesday—the 2024 US elections. It was a sad day. I find myself heartbroken and disillusioned—not by any one individual, but by my fellow citizens, and by the very spirit of our country. How did I not foresee that so many would cast their votes for someone who embodies values I could never align with—someone whose record is marred by misogyny and a complete disregard for truth? Not to forget countless criminal acts. It’s a stark reminder of the deep divisions at play, and it feels as though the ground beneath me has shifted.
Believe it or not, as I was reeling from the red on the American map, I was reminded of something my Ayurveda teachers have said more than once: only light can drive away darkness. This principle resonates deeply with me. It’s not just a helpful thought in relation to the election, but in many aspects of life.
I mourned for a day, and then I decided to keep showing up—rooted in compassion, wisdom, and respect for everyone around me, even when it’s hard. I admit that I won’t be able to summon respect or compassion for the winner of this election—not yet, at least. I’m not that evolved.
Which brings me to the concept of Ahara in Ayurveda. Ahara is a Sanskrit word that refers to the inputs we take into our bodies. Of course, it encompasses what we eat and drink, but Ayurveda goes beyond food.
While nutrition is undeniably important, Ayurveda teaches that our well-being is influenced by a broader range of factors we often overlook. Ahara includes everything we take in—food, air, and the sensory experiences that shape our lives.
Here are a couple of examples of Ahara that are not related to food:
What You Listen To: The type of music, podcasts, or even the tone of the conversations around you. For instance, listening to uplifting or calming music can help balance your mood, while listening to constant negativity or harsh sounds can agitate the mind.
The Company You Keep: The people you surround yourself with. If you spend time with those who are negative or critical, it can affect your emotional and mental health. Conversely, being around supportive, positive individuals can uplift your spirit and provide emotional nourishment.
Consider How You Take in the World Around You
Ahara is not just about food—it's about all the inputs we allow into our minds and bodies. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the news, or if certain topics or voices drain your energy, it might be time to reconsider how much of it you're absorbing.
I’ve found that limiting my exposure to sensational news is incredibly helpful. Instead of watching it on television, I now choose to read the news. This simple act helps me control when and what I consume, so I don’t get swept away by the tone of the newsreader or presenter. It allows me to take in the information without being affected by the emotional charge that often accompanies breaking news.
Sensational headlines and stories can be a huge drain on my energy, and they can negatively impact my mood and patience. By being more intentional about what I allow into my life, I feel more grounded and balanced.
This is what helps me: I encourage you to think about the Ahara you’re taking in and how it affects your well-being. Are there aspects of your sensory environment—like the news, social media, or the people you spend time with—that you could limit to protect your peace? Taking small steps to control your inputs can help create a more nourishing, balanced life.
Remember One More Thing: Movement and Action Can Help Shift Your Mood and Mind
If the practices I’ve shared don’t resonate, here’s one simple thing to keep in mind: movement and action are incredibly powerful tools for shifting both your mood and mindset. Whether it's going for a walk, practicing yoga, or even tackling a small project, physical movement can break the cycle of negativity and bring clarity. Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to literally get moving. Action, no matter how small, can help shift your perspective and change how you feel in the moment.
Namaste!
This is such a vital concept. Especially now. We are surrounded by so much noise. Most of it highly emotional and anxiety provoking. Exercising control over what and how much we absorb is within our power and allows us to maintain a healthier balance.