Practicing yoga is much more than performing poses on the mat. It goes beyond the physical body—it nurtures emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. It's a practice of inner transformation. Practicing yoga on São Miguel Island, surrounded by the lush nature of the Azores, invites us to adopt a more conscious life, where every choice—from our thoughts to our food—reflects the balance and harmony we seek on the mat.
In this sense, what we consume, apply to our bodies, and choose to eat has a direct impact not only on our physical and mental health but also on the quality of our yoga practice.
Ahimsa: Non-Violence as a Central Value in Yoga
One of the fundamental ethical principles of yoga is Ahimsa, which means non-violence. This concept refers to the practice of not causing harm to ourselves or others, whether through actions, thoughts, or words. Ahimsa invites us to live with compassion, respect, and awareness, both on and off the mat—including, of course, in our dietary choices.
The Impact of Diet on Yoga Practice
For many centuries, humanity consumed meat out of necessity. However, today, we no longer depend on it for survival. We have access to information, resources, and specialized professionals who can guide us on the path to a conscious vegetarian diet. Regular yoga and meditation practice sharpens our perception, sensitivity, and connection with the body and mind. In my personal case, when I began training as a yoga teacher and intensified my practice, my body started to reject meat—and shortly after, fish.
Being Vegetarian: A Conscious and Aligned Choice
Nowadays, it's easy to buy meat and fish—supermarkets have everything available, and consumption has become automatic, almost without reflection. But it's important to pause and think: what am I putting into my body? For many traditions, meat carries not only physical toxins but also dense energies associated with the animal's suffering. Fear, anguish, stress—all of these can leave traces that interfere with our well-being and block the meditative mind. As for fish, although it may seem like a lighter option, it is not free from negative impacts—especially considering the level of ocean pollution and the microplastics present in many fish.
In Summary
Adopting a vegetarian (or even vegan) diet can be a natural and coherent step for those who practice yoga with commitment and intention. More than a dietary choice, it is a lifestyle based on respect, compassion, and harmony with the planet.
Each body is different, and each path is unique. But listening to the body, observing the signs, and living in alignment with the values of yoga is undoubtedly a transformative journey.
