In our Block 1 (level 1) Tracks, we start out by introducing the concept of Prana. One of the most fun and interactive activities that students love is the comparison and creation of an Ayurvedic Myplate.
After going through the foundations of Mahabhutas, and, twenty gunas--as well as the six tastes(rasas)-we do this fun activity of taking the myplate.guv and trying to add some Ayurvedic element to it.
This is an example of a student Ayurvedic Myplate for a pitta predominant Vikrti (imbalance) with low tejas, who was a stretched thin.
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Ayurvedic My Plate for Pitta:(Jenny Griffith)
The My Plate for Pitta should include food that is as local, and, fresh as possible. This means minimizing or eliminating processed foods, frozen foods, canned foods, and foods containing preservatives, salts, fermentation additives, alcohol and vinegar.
In addition, it includes minimizing the use of leftovers. Food should be organic and locally grown when possible as well.
Essentially, as my pitta is high, I need to minimize any rasa’s (tastes) that contain the fire element which is salty (fire and water), sour (fire and earth), and pungent (fire and air).
Salty items include seaweed, saltwater fish, celery, natural minerals, salted nuts and sea vegetables. Sour items include citrus, yogurt, and fermented items. Pungent items include peppers, alcohol, onions and garlic. These have their place in small amounts, when in balance, but should be minimized if pitta is to be balanced.
Items that need to contribute to the majority of the myplate for my pitta imbalance are items that are naturally whole and sweet which are whole grains, organic milk, and berries and fruits that are non acidic; bitter which are dark leafy greens and some herbs and spices; and astrigent which are legumes and some raw fruits/vegetables.
There is no set amount of calories on this my plate. It is most important to honor your body’s needs and eat when you are hungry and to separate time between meals so the food can digest. Since this is a pitta my plate, it is good to have a set schedule where meals will be consumed which honors the pitta dosha.