Gokarna, July 30: Healthy food habits are the foundation of a disease-free life, and eating the right food at the right time is more important than simply eating what we like, said Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Sri Raghaveshwara Bharathi Mahaswamiji of Sri Ramachandrapura Math.
Delivering his blessings during the 'Annam Brahma' discourse as part of the ongoing Annabrahma Chaturmasya at the Ashokeya Moola Math in Gokarna on Thursday, the seer explained that proper food choices, moderation, and timely eating are the three essential principles for good health.
'Eat What Is Good, Not Just What You Like'
Referring to the teachings of renowned Ayurvedic scholar Vagbhata and Lord Dhanvantari, the Jagadguru explained the famous Ayurvedic concept of "Hitabhuk, Mitabhuk, Ashakabhuk."
According to him:
- Hitabhuk means eating food that is beneficial to the body.
- Mitabhuk means eating only in the required quantity.
- Ashakabhuk means avoiding excessive consumption of leafy vegetables and vegetables.
He stressed that people should choose food based on what benefits their body rather than simply satisfying their taste.
Eating at 4 AM Is Not a Healthy Trend
The Jagadguru expressed concern over a growing trend among youngsters, especially in cities, of eating meals as early as 4 a.m.
"While travelling recently, I noticed hotels crowded before sunrise. Eating food before sunrise is not a healthy practice. Even nectar consumed at such an inappropriate time can become harmful to the body," he remarked.
Don't Count Only Calories
The seer observed that modern society has become obsessed with counting calories while ignoring the importance of meal timing and eating habits.
"If food is consumed at the proper time and in the right manner, the stomach itself tells us how much to eat," he said.
He reminded devotees that food is not merely meant to fill the stomach but plays a vital role in shaping physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.
Undigested Food Is the Root of Many Diseases
Quoting Ayurvedic principles, the Jagadguru explained that undigested food, known as 'Ama', is considered the root cause of many illnesses.
He advised people to be mindful before eating and to ask themselves three important questions:
- What am I eating?
- How am I eating?
- When am I eating?
Drawing an analogy, he said that just as important dignitaries are screened with metal detectors before anyone approaches them, people should carefully examine the food they are about to consume before offering it to their own body.
The discourse was attended by several devotees and dignitaries, while Ramachandra Bhat and family offered Bhiksha Seva on behalf of the Sri Parivara.
"Ayurveda advises against excess in everything, including leafy vegetables. When consumed beyond the body's needs, excessive intake of greens and vegetables may contribute to problems affecting the eyes, bones and even mental sharpness. The key to good health is not avoiding vegetables, but maintaining a balanced and moderate diet."
— Sri Sri Raghaveshwara Bharathi Mahaswamiji (explaining the Ayurvedic principle of Ashakabhuk)
— Sri Sri Raghaveshwara Bharathi Mahaswamiji (explaining the Ayurvedic principle of Ashakabhuk)
300+ Traditional Dishes in 60 Days
The 60-day Annabrahma Chaturmasya will showcase more than 300 varieties of traditional sattvic cuisine.
Devotees visiting the event will be served a wide range of heritage dishes from Karnataka's Malnad and Coastal regions, prepared under the guidance of the Math's women's wing.
The menu will feature numerous varieties of Tambuli, Kosambari, Payasa, and other nutritious traditional recipes that combine taste with health.
Many dishes are inspired by ancient culinary and Ayurvedic texts such as "Bhojana Kutuhalam" and "Kshema Kutuhalam," highlighting India's rich food heritage and wellness traditions.
Keywords
Ramachandrapura Sri, Healthy Eating, Annabrahma Chaturmasya, Gokarna News, Ayurveda Diet, Disease-Free Life, Traditional Food, Satvik Food, Raghaveshwara Bharathi, Sri Ramachandrapura Math, Citizen News Puttur