Optimising Your Yoga Experience: A Pre- and Post-Nourishment Guide

Achieving harmony between diet and yoga is crucial for maximising the benefits of your practice. Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and nutritionist, emphasises the importance of mindful food choices before and after yoga to enhance energy levels, focus, and recovery.

Pre-Yoga Nutrition Tips:

Hydration First: Kickstart your day with a glass of water to jumpstart hydration. Ensure adequate hydration before your yoga session, with options like coconut water providing natural electrolytes for fluid balance.

Light and Digestible Snacks: If your practice exceeds an hour, opt for easily digestible snacks 30–60 minutes before yoga. Consider a banana or a small bowl of berries to provide the energy balance your body needs.

Avoid Heavy Foods: Steer clear of heavy, greasy, or overly spicy foods, as they may cause discomfort during poses and hinder your practice engagement.

Post-Yoga Nutrition Tips:

Rehydrate and replenish: Rehydrate post-yoga with water and replenish electrolytes through options like lemon juice with rock salt or coconut water to restore mineral balance lost through sweat.

Protein for Recovery: Incorporate a protein source in your post-yoga meal to support muscle recovery. Opt for options like a protein smoothie, quinoa salad with tofu, or lean chicken or fish dishes.

Healthy Fats for Sustained Energy: Include healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, or olive oil in your post-yoga meal for sustained energy and fat-soluble vitamin absorption.

Antioxidant-rich foods: combat inflammation and promote overall health by including colourful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits.

Timing Matters: Aim to consume your post-yoga meal within 30–60 minutes to optimise nutrient absorption and aid recovery.

Mindfully fueling your body before and after yoga sessions enhances your practice and contributes to overall well-being, ensuring a harmonious connection between body and mind.