Are All Yogis Vegetarian?

Dec 14, 2020
Throughout the yoga world there is an assumption that you must eat an entirely plant-based diet to be a dedicated Yogi. There is an understandable reason behind this belief, but here at Yoga Field & Sea we celebrate diversity between people and their diets.

So, where did the connection between yoga and vegetarianism come from?

The roots of vegetarianism in Indian culture stretch far back into history. First records of the diet can be found in sacred texts from the Vedic period, thousands of years ago. Within the texts there were teachings on the ‘divinity of all life on Earth’ and most importantly on the yogic practice of ‘Ahimsa’ (meaning non-violence). Reducing the suffering of sentient beings and practicing ‘Ahimsa’ is often the main reason that yogis choose to eat a vegetarian or vegan diet. Some people also say that eating meat hinders one’s ability to enter deep states of meditation, and so eating a light, plant-based diet is most suitable for yogic practitioners.
 
Yet despite this tradition, there has always been diversity within diets across India and in yogic communities. There is evidence of many yogis committing to a vegetarian lifestyle in the name of ‘Ahimsa’, only to fall sick or feel ‘ungrounded’ overtime. Ayurvedic teachers denote this feeling of illness to a Vata imbalance in the body which can be easily solved through introducing some non-vegetarian foods back into the diet.
 
This is why, at Yoga Field & Sea, we truly believe our bodies know the score when it comes to diet. Your unique genetics, your lifestyle and your body type will all dictate which foods are best for you to consume.

Think about this:

In a yoga practice you always tune into your body when it comes to difficult poses. You always adjust your practice to suit your body. It is important that people feel able to modify their diet in the same way they modify their yoga practice. Realistically, if you are living above the arctic circle in Norway, it is likely that a Fruitarian diet will neither sustain you or be accessible so sometimes you may have to adapt your diet depending on the environment in which you live.
 
If one thing is for sure, we do believe in consuming a clean, sustainable diet that looks after your body and the planet. Whatever you choose to eat it’s ideal to opt for organic, free-range and where possible, locally sourced options. This way you can still live mindfully and consume a diet that allows you to reach your potential.
 
So, why not tune into the ancient wisdom within yourself and feel which foods are most suitable for your body and lifestyle? Attempt to remain conscious of your actions and choose to consume high quality foods that nourish your soul.  
 
For this reason, Yoga Field & Sea retreats are not entirely vegetarian. We offer a pescatarian menu. If you do eat fish then you simply have to try our local fresh catches! South Devon is certainly famous for the amazing local fish. Yoga Field & Sea owner, Natalie, is trying the full plant-based diet in 2021 so if you are vegan, or have any other dietary requirements our chefs Gemma and Polly will be happy to cater to your needs. 
 
We are fully supportive of wherever you are on your diet journey and we welcome different ways of eating just as we welcome yogis of all experience, shapes and size.

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