International Yoga Day 2024: Best Foods to Eat Before and After Yoga Sessions!

Yoga is an ancient physical and mental practice that originated in India. Every year, on June 21, International Yoga Day is celebrated to raise awareness about the numerous benefits of practising yoga. It inspires people to adopt this ancient practice in their daily lives to maintain overall well-being. The first International Yoga Day was celebrated on June 21, 2015, one year after it was approved in the United Nations General Assembly.

Unlike many workouts, yoga is flexible and allows you to adjust its intensity to match your age and physical condition. But there is one thing that you can’t skip which is paying attention to what you eat before and after a yoga session. Here are some ideas to help you out:

5 Foods To Eat Before Yoga

Before moving forward, it’s important to note that these foods should be eaten 30 to 45 minutes before starting your yoga session.

1. BananaBefore yoga, you can grab a banana. It is easy on the stomach and provides a quick energy boost to practice yoga without weighing you down. The potassium in bananas helps maintain muscle function and prevents cramps.
2. Greek YogurtEating Greek yoghurt before yoga can offer a great balance of protein and carbohydrates, providing sustained energy for your practice. Plus, it keeps you feeling full without feeling heavy.
3. AlmondsThis nutrient-dense snack is enriched with protein, healthy fats and fibre that keep you energised. Almonds are light on the stomach and help sustain energy levels.
4. OatmealFuel up with a bowl of nutritious oatmeal topped with your favourite choice of fruits or nuts to energise your body. This wholesome combination provides sustained energy and keeps you feeling energised throughout your session.
5. Coconut WaterSipping on coconut water before hitting the yoga mat is like giving your body a refreshing hydration boost. This drink is loaded with potassium and magnesium which helps prevent dehydration during practice.

5 Foods To Eat After Yoga

It is recommended that one should wait for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour after practising yoga.

1. WaterHydration is key after sweating it out on the mat as it prevents dehydration. Drinking water also helps in flushing out toxins promoting better circulation.
2. Green TeaHaving a cup of green tea can be a relaxing way to wrap up your yoga session. It is filled with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and promote muscle recovery, easing any post-workout soreness. This drink also helps in regulating blood circulation and acts as a great stress buster.
3. EggsEating eggs post-yoga is a smart move for muscle recovery. These are packed with protein which aids in repairing and building muscles after your session on the mat. Whether you prefer them scrambled or boiled, eggs provide a satisfying and nutritious option to refuel your body.
4. PohaPoha made with flattened rice is light on the stomach and rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy to fuel your body post-workout. It contains nutrients like iron and vitamins that promote overall well-being.
5. SaladPacked with fresh vegetables, salad provides essential nutrients and hydration to replenish your energy levels. The fibre-rich bowl helps in digestion and promotes the feeling of fullness without weighing you down. You can also add some lean protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to boost muscle recovery.