Who wants to be immortal?

What if humans could live forever—or at least for a thousand years? While such a notion might seem impossible today, it was once considered a reality in ancient times, where Rishis and yogis were said to live for millennia, practicing yoga and meditation.

In contrast, today’s diet and lifestyle prevent us from living long, healthy lives. Smoking, alcohol consumption, fatty foods, processed meats, overeating, and an over-reliance on preservatives and sugary drinks all contribute to poor health. Countless studies and articles show that a Sattvic diet—one that emphasizes purity and balance—is ideal for maintaining health. Even better is a plant-based diet, one that avoids animal products. The best diet, it seems, is the one closest to nature. I won’t delve into the specifics of why a meat-free vegetarian diet is beneficial here—you can easily find the research for yourself.

The key to living a long life lies in mastering the functions of our bodies and understanding their needs. To begin, we must look at the body from a molecular perspective. The food we consume is broken down into microscopic particles during digestion, passing through the cell walls of our stomachs. It’s important to note that liquid food is easier for our bodies to process than solid food. Eating foods that are difficult to digest wastes both your time and your body’s resources. The real danger, however, is overeating. Just as an engine can malfunction when overloaded with oil, our bodies struggle when overloaded with food. By eating less, we ease the digestive process, allowing it to function more efficiently. Our digestive system does more than break down food—it also renews itself. Giving our organs time to rest and renew is vital. Overeating leaves waste matter in the intestines, obstructing this renewal process.

To correct this, it’s simple: eat less and give your body time to rest. One way to achieve this is through fasting. Try fasting every few days, allowing your body to rest and rejuvenate. When you break your fast, start with fresh liquids and ease back into healthy eating. As much as possible, consume food in its natural state—avoid cooking or frying fruits (I would gladly take aim at whoever invented banana fritters—what were they thinking?). Your body needs adequate rest, which is crucial for health. We’re not nocturnal animals, so it’s important to align our sleep patterns with the sun. Aim for 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. If that’s not possible, take a nap during the day. If you can’t afford rest, consider changing your job.

Our bodies function best when kept warm. Unlike clunky metal machines, our bodies are made of organic material, which thrives in warmth. Imagine frozen meat: when defrosted, blood flows again. Keep yourself warm to ensure proper bodily function, and drink warm water after meals. If you live in a warm climate, you have an added advantage.

Even if you follow a healthy diet and consume pure liquids, toxins will still accumulate in your body. Pollution, chemicals in food, and additives in water contribute to this buildup. You can’t escape it entirely, as most commercially available food contains some amount of pesticide residue or other chemicals. That’s why fasting and drinking pure water can help detoxify the body. If you can find water that’s free of additives—distilled water, for example—it will support your health by offering just H2O, without sodium or chlorine.

Additionally, regular exercise is essential for detoxification. It keeps the mind alert, facilitates bodily functions, and helps renew cells, which is key to maintaining a youthful appearance. However, caution is needed, as over-exercising can have negative effects—just as an engine can be damaged if revved too much. Aerobic exercise and weight training can improve fitness, while stretching exercises, particularly yoga, help muscles release toxins and refresh themselves. Think of it like a towel soaked in soapy water: to remove the water, you must squeeze it out, and once squeezed, the towel is ready to absorb again. Yoga is the best form of stretching for detoxification and rejuvenation.

Spiritual growth and ethical wealth—gained through higher learning—also contribute to longevity. Never stop learning, and always surround yourself with positive, supportive people. Helping others and engaging in uplifting activities will contribute to a longer, more fulfilling life. Avoid ignorance at all costs, as it hinders growth.

To summarize:

1. Eat natural foods in balance: grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, root crops, and herbs. Need help? Feel free to contact me.

2. Keep warm—avoid overheating.

3. Exercise regularly, incorporating yoga, aerobic exercise, and weight training. But remember, moderation is key. The hard work of developing these practices has already been done for you—thank you, Rishis and Munis.

4. Eat less. Start your day with light, nutritious foods—fruits, grains, and warm water. Avoid heavy, greasy meals like bacon and eggs. As the day progresses, continue with plant-based foods—vegetables, legumes, seeds, and nuts. Eliminate animal products. Keep food as close to its natural state as possible.

5. Regular fasting helps with detoxification.

6. Preserve your energy to elevate your consciousness. This is part of yoga—study it, broaden your horizons. If you need help, contact me.

This isn’t rocket science. It’s a simple guide designed for modern individuals living in a modern society. By following these principles, you’ll feel younger, more vibrant, and live a longer life. 

"Live long and prosper"

By Retnesh Raj