31/01/2026
The last 8 weeks I have felt a calling to embrace more actively the purification aspect of Hatha yoga, weekly fasts, clean eating by avoiding processed foods, carbs and sugar and eating only food that nourishes me.
I have shed 8+ kg’s and feel lighter, energetic and more alive in my body.
In Hatha yoga, purification (called shuddhi or cleansing) is a key foundation. The idea is that a clean body and mind make yoga practices—like postures, breathing, and meditation—work much better and help us feel clearer, lighter, and more balanced.
Hatha texts (like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika) describe special cleansing techniques called Shatkarmas (six actions) to remove physical toxins, excess mucus, or blockages from the body. These include things like nasal cleansing (neti), digestive washes (dhauti), abdominal churning (nauli), and others. They’re powerful but usually done under guidance, not every day for most people.
Beyond those specific techniques, Hatha yoga strongly emphasises clean eating and lifestyle as everyday purification. This supports the body naturally, reduces toxins (called ama in yogic terms), balances energy, and keeps the system clear so prana (life force) flows freely.
“Hatha yoga sees the body like a temple or a clear channel for energy. To keep it pure and strong, we focus on clean living as a form of daily purification.
• Eat clean, simple foods: Choose fresh, natural foods—lots of fruits, vegetables (raw or lightly cooked), whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Think colorful, plant-based meals that feel light and energising. Fill about half to two-thirds of your plate with fruits and veggies. This nourishes without overloading the system.
• Avoid heaviness: Cut back on processed foods, too much sugar, salt, fried items, caffeine, alcohol, and anything that feels ‘sticky’ or hard to digest. These can build up toxins and cloud the mind.
• Eat moderately: Leave a little space in your stomach (classically, fill half with food, a quarter with liquid, and leave a quarter empty). This helps digestion and keeps energy high.
• Live simply and mindfully: Combine this with good sleep, positive thoughts, kindness, time in nature, and avoiding excess stress—these all support inner cleanliness.
When we eat and live this way, the body naturally detoxifies, the mind becomes calmer, and our yoga practice feels deeper and more joyful. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about gentle, consistent choices that make us feel clearer and more alive.”
