living a sattvic life
In Ayurveda and yoga philosophy, the three gunas—sattva, rajas, and tamas—describe the fundamental qualities that shape our mind, behaviour, and state of being. While rajas brings movement and passion, and tamas brings rest and stability, sattva represents balance, purity, and harmony. It’s the essence of peace, clarity, and lightness—the quality that allows us to live in flow with nature and feel deeply connected to ourselves and the world around us.
As someone who lives close to the beach, loves moving mindfully, creating art, and spending time outdoors, I’ve found that living a sattvic life isn’t about perfection or restraint… it’s about cultivating a sense of ease and connection. It’s about living gently, creatively, and consciously in tune with the elements.
The Sattvic Mind
A sattvic state of mind feels clear, grounded, and peaceful. It brings emotional balance, honesty, and compassion. When sattva predominates, there’s a natural sense of joy and contentment that arises….not because everything is perfect, but because there’s acceptance and trust in the flow of life.
Qualities of a sattvic mind include:
Calmness and patience, even during challengesClarity and good discernmentKindness and honestyGratitude and forgivenessA genuine desire to learn and growSattvic Living
Sattvic living is about rhythm, balance, and nourishment. It’s waking with the sun, spending time by the ocean, and allowing movement and rest to coexist naturally. It’s about being barefoot on the earth, painting or journalling as a way to process emotions, and choosing work and relationships that feel aligned and meaningful.
Practices that support sattva include:
Starting the day quietly with pranayama, prayer, japa, meditation, or gentle yoga/sura namaskar
Spending time in nature, feeling the wind, salt, and sand
Creating art or music as a form of expression and connection
Keeping a regular sleep and meal routine
Surrounding yourself with beauty and simplicity in your home
Practising gratitude, journalling, or reflection at sunset
Sattvic Food
Food deeply influences the mind. Sattvic foods are fresh, light, and full of life force. They bring clarity rather than heaviness. A sattvic approach to eating isn’t about strict rules but about awareness—choosing foods that make you feel alive, grounded, and calm.
A sattvic diet includes:
Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds
Herbal teas, pure water, and gentle natural sweetness like juicy medjool dates or honey
Ghee or coconut oil for nourishment and stability
Warm, home-cooked meals eaten mindfully and with gratitude
Avoiding overstimulation from processed foods, caffeine, or excess spice supports the mind’s calmness and allows agni to work steadily.
Sattvic Connection
Sattva also thrives in how we relate to others. Communication that’s gentle, authentic, and non-judgemental keeps energy flowing smoothly. Choosing company that uplifts you and spending time in solitude when needed both help maintain inner balance.
It’s not about detachment….it’s about being present, speaking with kindness, and giving without expectation. Acts of service, like helping others or caring for the environment, also strengthen sattva.
A Sattvic Life by the Sea
Living by the ocean naturally nurtures sattva. The sea breeze clears the mind, the sound of waves regulates breath, and the salt air purifies the senses. Whether it’s swimming, surfing, meditating on the sand, or simply watching the horizon, these moments remind us of our connection to something greater.
Sattva is not a destination…it’s a practice of presence. It’s found in small, intentional choices: in how we move, eat, create, and connect. It’s in the art we make, the care we give to our bodies, and the way we meet each moment with curiosity and grace.
