Off the Mat Moms-Lesson 5: SAUCHA

We are indeed much more than what we eat, but what we eat can nevertheless help us to be much more than what we are. – Nutritionist & Author Adelle Davis

Being a mom is much harder than I ever expected.  One day it’s figuring out how to keep a kid in bed (when you have waited ALL DAY for that magical hour when adult time finally begins).  Another day the challenge is to stick to your guns and be the grown up, not the friend.  A huge challenge many moms face is preparing and encouraging healthy eating.

I’ve learned through the years that everyone has their own definition of “healthy,” and that some days, you just can’t live up to your own standard.  Some kids are picky, others are constant snackers.  Some moms care deeply about buying fresh, local and organic foods, while others want what is best but have to keep one eye on the checkbook balance as well.   Some moms carry on food traditions as they were raised, while others have completely changed their diets to fit a modern-day mom’s schedule and health needs.

Saucha, the ancient sanskrit term included in Patanjali’s eight limbs of yoga, is translated to mean purity, cleanliness and moderation.  I was struck by this last definition, moderation.  To me, moderation is key to a healthy and balanced lifestyle, especially in the interest of food and nutrition.

Fad diets, food trends and even scientific research is constantly evolving.   It is nearly impossible to keep up!  But no matter what our own challenges are at the dinner table, our families will benefit from our devotion to variety and moderation.

As a mom, I’ve learned to let go of some things, put my foot down on other things and, above all, keep an open mind.  Sure, my kids love M&Ms as much as any kid.  I don’t forbid sweets, juice or potato chips, but rather, I limit them and make them a special treat at a deserving moment.  I do my best to check food labels, but all natural products, whole grains and to shop locally, but I don’t obsess over it.  I see Saucha as a key to my own health and well-being….Everything in Moderation.

Remembering this lesson will feed our souls as well as our bellies with wholesome goodness.   We all have to be reasonable about what will work for the cook as well as the family diners.   If I’m crying over spilled organic milk one week and driving to four different markets in search of local heirloom tomatoes another, my stress level is going to hit an all-time high, and then whose relationship with food is unhealthy?

I think all we moms want is for our families to be the best they can be – in a sense, “to be much more than what they are.”  By practicing moderation and promoting a healthy relationship with food, our children will accomplish great things – maybe even teach us a few things in return.

Check out this list of recommended gifts for the nutrition nut on your Christmas list!  Great Books on Nutrition, Health and Feeding your Family

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