Yoga Meals, Power Up Before or After

Some people are morning yogis, while others prefer to unwind after work or even later in the evening. I’m an anytime yogi myself and with a schedule that can fluctuate week to week, I have to get my yoga in whenever I can.

So how does this fit in with meal times? I really try my best to eat my meals at the same time every day to maintain my energy and keep blood sugar levels balanced, but how does this work if the only time I have for yoga falls right after breakfast or so close to dinner time that I might not have time to cook?

You never want to exercise on a full stomach, so you want to avoid eating anything heavy before you hit the mats and even something simple like scrambled eggs can be very hard to digest. Ideally, it’s best to wait two hours after you eat to do yoga, but if that can be challenge try something simple.

I often have a smoothie for breakfast since it’s fast, mess free, and I can get in my protein, fruit, and flax first thing in the morning. These ingredients are so easy to digest, and I find that I can hit the mat about an hour and a half later.

After yoga and working out in general, I never have issues with my appetite! And remember that your muscles need nourishment just like your stomach does. A small glass of low sugar juice such as grapefruit or carrot mixed with seltzer is a great way to rehydrate while getting vitamins and minerals that you body always needs. And for your meal, mix vegetables, protein and a whole grain carbohydrate to get your body back in balance. Here are some fast meal ideas when you don’t have time to cook”

1 cup raw broccoli florets dipped in one tablespoon almond butter with one cup leftover steamed brown rice or whole grain pasta
1 small whole wheat pita, 1 tablespoon low fat salad dressing mixed with 1 cup chopped raw baby spinach and ½ cup canned chick peas.
2 slices nitrate-free turkey deli meat, one tablespoon honey mustard or bbq sauce spread on one slice of whole grain bread, sprinkle 2 tablespoons grated part skim mozzarella. Place in a toaster over to melt the cheese and enjoy.

What about Protein Shakes?

I’m not a fan, because many of the protein shake mixes aren’t made with fresh ingredients, have unwanted preservativs, sugar and don’t always taste great. Most people need 40 to 60 grams of protein a day which they can get comfortably form natural food sources that carry the other “goodies” that we need – like vitamins and minerals. If a shake is what you crave, make your own. Take one cup cottage cheese, 1 cup skim milk, 4 ice cubes and one cup of your favorite berries. Blend and you have your protein fix!