Achieving Life Balance through Buddhist Dietary Principles

Abstract

The purposes of this research article were 1) to study Buddhist healthy diets in Thai society; 2) to analyze the relationship between food and life balance according to Buddhist principles; and 3) to propose a model for achieving life balance through Buddhist dietary principles. This was a qualitative research study, examining documentary data, information from the Buddhist scriptures (Tipitaka), commentaries (Atthakatha), academic texts, and articles. The findings were then analyzed comparatively and through descriptive content analysis. The research findings revealed that 1) the processes of nurturing the body and mind included 1.1) Kavalinkarahara referred to physical food that promoted good health; 1.2) Phassahara referred to food that came from contact with the environment, which affected emotions and the mind; 1.3) Manosancetanahara referred to food derived from one's intentions and life goals; and 1.4) Vinyanahara referred to food for the mind, related to perception and intellect; 2) an imbalance in lifestyle, such as consuming unhealthy food, contributed to various chronic diseases, setting life goals that were focused on material possessions to the point of lacking true happiness, and a lack of self-esteem led to feelings of low self-worth. The application of the 4 food groups principle, namely mindful food choices restored health and harmony, paving the way for a happier, more balanced community; and 3) the way to balance life through nutrition was called "Dhammahara". It referred to food that nourished the soul, providing vitality and strength to create balance between body and mind; 3.1) Dhammahara and physical health emphasized moderate consumption according to Majjhima Patipada), neither too much nor too little, avoiding harmful foods; 3.2) Dhammahara and mental health focused on creating emotional and mental balance through the principles of loving-kindness (Metta) and compassion (Karuna), practicing letting go of anger and jealousy, and strengthening willpower in life; 3.3) Dhammahara and intellectual health were to nurture wisdom, helping to think rationally through the principle of Yonisomanasikara, thinking carefully before making decisions; 3.4) Dhammahara and spiritual health emphasized practicing meditation, understanding suffering and the path to liberation from suffering according to Ariyasacca 4 (Four Noble Truths), and observing Sila 5 (Five Precepts) to control body, speech, and mind within a virtuous framework.