Health Groups

I recently joined a health group. There are about 40 other adults in the group. We had a little meeting tonight and I let them try out some of the blueberry yogurt I've been making. Everyone loved it. It started out a conversation about food, and the relationship between food and health. There were a few people who started to get rather edgy because some other people mentioned that being a vegetarian is so much healthier. Of course, most of us in the group agree, as we've tried it out and all. The two groups- those who agreed vegetarianism is healthier- and those who think it's not necessary to go vegetarian- have a deal now. We're going to have a 3 month cook fest. The only rule is: bias should be left at the door whenever we meet.

I'm planning to do cook a bunch of meals from Wai Lana Yoga's website. I think those recipes that use seitan will be a hit. Her desserts are also wonderful. I think Wai Lana has some of the best eggless cakes I've ever had. Come to think of it, had I not tried out the vegetarian recipes of Wai Lana and several other great recipes, I don't think I would've been convinced that vegetarianism is the way to go.

Healthy Lifestyle tips

Eating for Health
Yogis know that it is important to eat just the right amount to keep the body healthy—neither too much nor too little.

Eating too much makes your organs of digestion and elimination work overtime; this is a waste of energy that makes you feel tired and lethargic. Not only that, if you overeat consistently, you may become seriously overweight, and that can lead to heart disease and other physical ailments.

When food cravings arise, whether due to stress, inner emptiness, or the desire for a taste flash, we often go for junk food because it tastes good and is readily available. But chips, crackers, chocolate, cookies and the like are high in sugar, salt, and fat and low on nutritional value. While it's fine to munch these things occasionally, when eaten regularly, they are harmful to your body.

So yogis try to remember that food is meant to sustain the body and keep it healthy, not harm it. It's much better to nibble a piece of fruit than to resort to junk food. And if stress or emptiness is the cause of the craving, try relaxation or meditation techniques before you head for the snacks.

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