Simplicity and Wisdom: A Conversation with Chef Sanjeev Kapoor on Satvik Living
insights on modern diets. His straightforward wisdom offers valuable perspectives for those seeking a more balanced approach to food and wellbeing.
Finding Clarity in a World of Overwhelming Health Advice
Q: In today’s world, we’re constantly bombarded with health advice from countless sources – social media influencers, wellness blogs, and even well-meaning friends. With so many conflicting opinions about what constitutes “healthy eating,” how do we identify what truly matters for our wellbeing?
“Start with the basics, keep it clean,” Chef Kapoor advised when asked about navigating today’s overwhelming health advice landscape. “You don’t need to follow something that is complicated or complex. Eating habits are simple, and we only need to follow and be consistent. Also, it’s not just eating – you need to sleep right, exercise as well. It all works together.”
The True Relationship with Food
Q: Many people today follow strict diets and eating regimens, yet still struggle with their health and wellbeing. From your experience, what patterns do you notice when someone is struggling despite seemingly doing everything ‘right’?
He says that you don’t have to overcomplicate it or push yourself so hard. “Let it be natural,” he said, “basics and consistency are all that you require.” Once those are in order, you can build from there depending on your body type. He suggests that you might approach eating as a mathematical equation rather than an intuitive process. This creates tension where there should be ease. Understanding your unique body constitution is essential – what works for one person may not work for another.
Transforming Cooking from Chore to Self-Care
Q: Many people today view cooking as just another task to complete in their busy lives, or even avoid it entirely by relying on delivery services. How can people shift their perspective to see cooking as an act of self-care and nourishment?
“You need to take responsibility,” he said. “Ordering from delivery apps is ‘food for profit,’ benefiting the companies instead of yourself. Take responsibility for your family and your health – only you know what works for you and your parents. You can make those dietary changes. Otherwise, control of diet is actually not in your hands. And it has to be you who does it – you can’t ask someone else to breathe for you, or go on a walk for you. It has to be you.”
Chef Kapoor speaks passionately about reclaiming your connection to food preparation. When you surrender this responsibility to commercial services, you disconnect from a fundamental aspect of self-care. Cooking becomes a form of mindfulness when approached with awareness – the simple acts of preparing food ground you in the present moment and allow you to tailor meals to your unique needs and those of your loved ones.
Essentials for Healthier Eating
Q: Many of our readers work in office environments where healthy eating can be challenging. If you were designing an ideal office pantry that supports Satvik principles while being practical for a modern workplace, what five essential items would you recommend including?
“Mainly it would be fruits. Longer shelf life items will shorten your life. It is inversely proportional. Keep fresh things and you will become what you eat.”
Chef Kapoor offers a profound observation: foods designed to outlast natural decomposition often contain elements that burden your biological system. His emphasis on fresh fruits reflects the core Satvik principle that vibrant, life-giving foods transfer their energy to you. The freshness of what you consume directly impacts your vitality – a simple yet powerful reminder that your food choices connect you to larger natural cycles.
The Essence of Satvik Living
Satvik living isn’t about rigid rules but about aligning with natural principles that support your wellbeing. As Chef Kapoor’s wisdom reminds us, you already possess the intuitive knowledge of what nourishes you – you simply need to quiet the noise and listen.
~ Written by Ritika S