yoga & vegan health trend

[njvegan]

has anyone else found the two groups: yoga & vegan having dialoges about cross-benefits? i've seen this alot lately, expecially amoung women. haven't seen such conversation amoung male body-builders. However, swimmers, track Runners, cyclists, etc seem to be in tune with vegan nutrition, and recently I've noticed Yogas. Comments?

[Elena99]

I wouldn't really call either a trend, but I've noticed the increase in popularity with yoga, recently. Which I think is excellent. I love yoga.

I'm vegan, and I also do yoga, run, weight-lifting, cycling, and recently started the elyptical trainer. But you know, yoga has been around for a very, very long time.

[Tesseract]

In many schools of hatha yoga, vegetarianism is a core principle deriving from the Indian principle of ahimsa (non-violence).

[stellar26]

In many schools of hatha yoga, vegetarianism is a core principle deriving from the Indian principle of ahimsa (non-violence).

Yep, an example of this is Jivamukti yoga.

[Naturegirl]

Yoga very much follows the idea "you are what you eat" therefore, serious students should choose food that in it's most natural state because animal products and processed foods affect you physically and mentally. Here is a goodlink:

http://www.sivananda.org/teachings/diet/diet.html (it also talks about the categories of food (gunas).

Since you mentioned vegan bodyingbuilding, here are some links:

http://www.veganbodybuilding.com/
http://www.veganfitness.net/
http://www.kathyfeldman.com/index.html

[zoebird]

in the system of yoga--regardless of whether it's hatha, raja/jnana, karma, or bhakti--there are two origins or basis for vegetarianism within the philosophy: saucha (purity--a niyama, or restraint) and ahimsa (nonviolence--a yama, or observance).

I put saucha first because it is largely related to dietary (among other) practices. many of the ideas for various dietary practices--usually divided or determined by the sort of work in the society that you did and in which stage of life you were--comes out of the practices of saucha. saucha also covers other social practices such as dress, speech, social graces/politeness, etc. it is an extensive system of personal cleanliness--body, mind, spirit, and social being.

In vedic history, the ahimsic basis for vegetarianism is a relatively new development. Interestingly, when this basis for vegetarianism became popular (which was BCE), animal sacrifices were still practiced, and in many communities (hindu particularly) are still practiced today even with strict observance of vegetarianism. This makes for an interested dichotomy.

It is difficult to ascertain exactly how ahimsa philosophy impacts vegetarianism, and most traditional yogins are more apt to point to saucha practices before ahimsic practices, though they admit that there is an ahimsic component. The major philosopher/activist to use ahimsa as the basis for vegetarianism was Ghandi. But, Ghandi extended this to all living creatures--as many as he could--and to follow Ghandi's lead in nonviolence would mean abandoning a number of practices which both traditional vedic cultures that still exist today and modern yoga sub cultures throughout the world would rather not do without (such as the concept of 'just war.').

This is not to say, though, that ahimsa is not a component, just not a traditionally overriding or origin component of the practice of vegetarianism as a yogic practice. And, if we look to other vedic cultures--sikhism, jainism, and buddhism, we also see diverse takes on ahimsic behavoir in regards to vegetarianism. In sikhism, vegetarianism is seen as positive, but not as a salvation-giving element of practice. in buddhism, vegetarianism is also considered a profound practice--largely for reasons of purity and better meditation practice--but vegetarianism also has various definitions, such as the inclusion of fish in some cases, or how monks will not refuse meat in their 'begging bowls' as long as the animal wasn't killed especially for them--but rather was part of the household's or community's meal. In these cases, it seems that the ahimsic practice isn't rooted in the vegetarianism, but in the origin of the meat itself and the reason behind consuming it.

It is not surprising, then, that many modern, western yoga practitioners find themselves confused on the issue of vegetarianism in light of both saucha and ahimsa practices. most yogins in the west cannot name the 5 yamas or niyamas--in sanskrit or in english--nor have they engaged these ideas other than in a slightly cursory manner, and then cling to something to demonstrate their practice of it--such as jumping into vegetarianism or veganism. Conversely, others will abandon or even fight these practices completely, rejecting that vegetarianism should even be attempted.

From the yogic perspective, one should take on vegetarianism from the sauchic perpsective first, as this uses one's own intuition and self knowledge to determine what the most healthy dietary choices are for one's own body. This does not rely on outward science, social dictates, or passing fads. This relies on inner body-wisdom. This is the cornerstone of sauchic practice.

If, during the course of engaging saucha one finds vegetarianism valuable, then of course the ahimsic practices related naturally attach. What is more difficult for the yogin is when the natural diet from one's own body-wisdom is not vegetarian. Then, the ideas of how to practice ahimsa in light of one's own health necessities in regards to omnivorous dietary choices comes into play. This is when the practitioner actively engages ahimsa in dietary practice--choosing to be nonviolent whenever possible.

it is easy to be nonviolent in a naturally peaceful setting or situation. it is far more challenging to be nonviolent in a setting that is not naturally peaceful. And largely, it is this challenge that is the practice of yoga--whether that is in meditation, asana, pranayama, saucha, scriptural study, or ahimsa.

[Naturegirl]

it is easy to be nonviolent in a naturally peaceful setting or situation. it is far more challenging to be nonviolent in a setting that is not naturally peaceful. And largely, it is this challenge that is the practice of yoga--whether that is in meditation, asana, pranayama, saucha, scriptural study, or ahimsa.


Well said. I'm glad that you took the time to write out everything I was too lazy to type (plus I was work). I think it is sad that yoga in the west has focused on the physical practice, often as just a way to say fit or relax (not that this is bad--there's just a lot more to it). The yamas and niyamas are the foundation (not really the best word choice) of yoga, the physical practices grows from that. In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, he pays little attention to the asanas compared to all the other aspects of yoga.

[zoebird]

The Yoga Sutras by Patanjali focuses on the psycho-spiritual process of entering into Yoga--or the nondual state.

The Hatha Yoga Pradapika focuses on asana and pranayama.

This may be a helpful image. The underlying principles or philosophies of yoga--the yamas and niyamas--are the outside of the wheel. Yoga is the inside or the center of the wheel. the various 'types' of yoga--karma, hatha, bhakti, jnana--are the spokes of the wheel. and truly, when the wheel spins, you hardly see the differences between these different types of yoga.

[Naturegirl]

The Yoga Sutras by Patanjali focuses on the psycho-spiritual process of entering into Yoga--or the nondual state.

The Hatha Yoga Pradapika focuses on asana and pranayama.

This may be a helpful image. The underlying principles or philosophies of yoga--the yamas and niyamas--are the outside of the wheel. Yoga is the inside or the center of the wheel. the various 'types' of yoga--karma, hatha, bhakti, jnana--are the spokes of the wheel. and truly, when the wheel spins, you hardly see the differences between these different types of yoga.


I am just curious, but how long have you been practicing yoga?

[zoebird]

i've practiced asana and pranayama for my whole life--but i can remember from age 4 on.

at 14, i started to engage the more esoteric elements. at 19, i got into the more academic elements and started teaching. and i'm now 29.

[Naturegirl]

Well that explains why you know so much. I started to get into the other aspects of yoga about 2 years ago. There is a lot to learn!

[zoebird]

yeah. i often tell people that what i know of yoga is actually only a thimble full of water from the ocean. it's hardly anything at all.

but i'm admittedly more academic about it than many yogins and even yoga teachers. it really grabs my interest. :)

[YinYang]

I think it is great:bobo: that people are taking control of their health "trend" or not. I also think that it is possible to use yoga for its physical benefits:pibo: and to leave the philosophy behind. This allows people from all religions to experience the physiological benefits of Yoga. Vegan/Vegetarian or not.
I do think having a "veg" awakening during yoga exercise may have to do more with "body awareness" then the philosophy it self. During Yoga workouts we tend to still our mind (not common practice in our society) this also helps us to pay more attention :idea: to our thoughts. Also, we become more aware of our body and its needs, which could lead one to veg/healthy living. :rockon: I think this process teaches many of us to have more compassion and love for ourselves so in turn this may lead to having more compassion for humans and animals:hug:.
Just a thought.

physiological benefits of Yoga

Stable autonomic nervous system equilibrium
Pulse rate decreases
Respiratory rate decreases
Blood Pressure decreases (of special significance for hyporeactors)
Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) increases
EEG - alpha waves increase (theta, delta, and beta waves also increase during various stages of meditation)
EMG activity decreases
Cardiovascular efficiency increases
Respiratory efficiency increases
Gastrointestinal function normalizes
Endocrine function normalizes
Excretory functions improve
Musculoskeletal flexibility and joint range of motion increase
Breath-holding time increases
Joint range of motion increase
Grip strength increases
Eye-hand coordination improves
Dexterity skills improve
Reaction time improves
Posture improves
Strength and resiliency increase
Endurance increases
Energy level increases
Weight normalizes
Sleep improves
Immunity increases
Pain decreases
Steadiness improves
Depth perception improves
Balance improves
Integrated functioning of body parts improves


Psychological Benefits of Yoga



Somatic and kinesthetic awareness increase
Mood improves and subjective well-being increases
Self-acceptance and self-actualization increase
Social adjustment increases
Anxiety and Depression decrease
Hostility decreases
Concentration improves
Memory improves
Attention improves
Learning efficiency improves
Mood improves
Self-actualization increase
Social skills increases
Well-being increases
Somatic and kinesthetic awareness increase
Self-acceptance increase
Attention improves
Concentration improves
Memory improves
Learning efficiency improves
Symbol coding improves
Depth perception improves
Flicker fusion frequency improves





Biochemical Benefits of Yoga

Glucose decreases
Sodium decreases
Total cholesterol decreases
Triglycerides decrease
HDL cholesterol increases
LDL cholesterol decreases
VLDL cholesterol decreases
Cholinesterase increases
Catecholamines decrease
ATPase increases
Hematocrit increases
Hemoglobin increases
Lymphocyte count increases
Total white blood cell count decreases
Thyroxin increases
Vitamin C increases
Total serum protein increases

[zoebird]

thanks for those great lists yinyang. i saved them to a file so that i could use them in the future. :)

[Naturegirl]

A lot of it is justing getting to know your body, and learning to listen to your bodies needs, which is a foreign concept to many people. In other words, if you really feel your body needs a peice of meat, then in terms of yoga, it is ok to eat it. At least that's the inpression I get from what I read.

[zoebird]

and it's true, in a sense.

traditionally, the vedic culture is actually diverse. vegetarianism was introduced rather late in the development, while animal sacrifice still existed (and it still does exist throughout india). of the three major vedic religions--sikhism, hinduism, and jainism--vegetarianism predominates two of these (hinduism and jainism) while sikhism clearly states that vegetarianism isn't necessary for enlightenment or salvation (as they use both terms) and it doesn't inhibit spiritual development per se.

similarly, the vedic tradition also developed a health science called ayurveda. this complimentary health medicine/science uses many dietary, herbal, exercise, and massage techniques for optimal health and wellness. For some healing modalities, things that are generally 'frowned upon' for various religious/spiritual reasons are used for healing such as meat, wine, white sugar, etc. and some individuals are encouraged to continue to eat meat or drink wine or whatever on a regular basis to maintain their health. when this occurs, it is not considered an inhibition to spiritual development either--regardless of which of the three traditions on belongs.

[Naturegirl]

No wonder humans have such a compliciated relationship with food! It's all so confusing. :hungry:

[zoebird]

well, i don't think it's all that confusing, particularly if you largely rest on your own intuition and spirit rather than on external ideas or dogmas. this will help one find the most healthful diet.

the purpose of yoga (asana or otherwise) is to teach us to be mindful and to follow the inner leadings of the body/mind/spirit. we do have external wisdom and touchstones where we can 'double check' ourselves, but these are meant as helps, aids, guideposts, and are not 'absolute' or even 'complete' in themselves. The real teacher is the Self (within and without; imminent and transcendent), and we learn through the practice of yoga how to come into union with that Self.

It is that Self that guides us to what is right for our bodies, minds, and spirits, and guides us in our path (or mission) while in this body in this time. So, it is really quite simple.

[Naturegirl]

well, i don't think it's all that confusing, particularly if you largely rest on your own intuition and spirit rather than on external ideas or dogmas. this will help one find the most healthful diet.

the purpose of yoga (asana or otherwise) is to teach us to be mindful and to follow the inner leadings of the body/mind/spirit. we do have external wisdom and touchstones where we can 'double check' ourselves, but these are meant as helps, aids, guideposts, and are not 'absolute' or even 'complete' in themselves. The real teacher is the Self (within and without; imminent and transcendent), and we learn through the practice of yoga how to come into union with that Self.

It is that Self that guides us to what is right for our bodies, minds, and spirits, and guides us in our path (or mission) while in this body in this time. So, it is really quite simple.

I personally don't find it complicated, but how many of us know how to follow intuition when it comes to diet? Something is keeping the diet business going.

[baboxsandy]

I love yoga. It relieves my stress and makes me fell relaxed. = )

[zoebird]

naturalgirl:

most of us are taught, from a very early age, to abandon our inner knowing, to fall in line, and to do what we're told. it's seen as simply in places as preschool even.

this is not to say that there shouldn't be rules, boundaries, and so on, but these should take into consideration the inate nature of individuals to do what is best for themselves.

so what happens is that by the time we actually have a little control over our lives (leave home), we often have no sense of what we want to do and every sense of what others think we should do. And so, we have to learn how to redevelop that connection with our intuition.

which is another reason to pracitce yoga.

[vedic_kings]

naturalgirl:

most of us are taught, from a very early age, to abandon our inner knowing, to fall in line, and to do what we're told. it's seen as simply in places as preschool even.

this is not to say that there shouldn't be rules, boundaries, and so on, but these should take into consideration the inate nature of individuals to do what is best for themselves.

so what happens is that by the time we actually have a little control over our lives (leave home), we often have no sense of what we want to do and every sense of what others think we should do. And so, we have to learn how to redevelop that connection with our intuition.

which is another reason to pracitce yoga.


So true!

[ForestGlade34]

thanks for those great lists yinyang. i saved them to a file so that i could use them in the future. :-)
Yeah me too thanx Yin Yang !!!!!!!!:wayne: :up: :wayne: :up: :wayne: :up:,

and Zoebird, I'm shocked you don't know ALL THAT already, j/k, you know everything....*giggle*

Ying Yang again, do you mind if I take your words when showing "friends" this list please... I think you got it pretty sewn up, so can I add your words to compliment the list?? Where in fact did you get the list anyways?....from a magazine, online or where? Just (very) curious, hehe.

[eggplant]

In my last yoga class the teacher told the class that they should try not eating meat one day a week. That kind of made me laugh internally, but I guess that's a start for people who consider meat an essential part of every meal.

[vggiegirl]

well, i don't think it's all that confusing, particularly if you largely rest on your own intuition and spirit rather than on external ideas or dogmas. this will help one find the most healthful diet.



Would someone please tell my intuition and spirit to back. away. from the cupcakes.