We choose foods for far more reasons than just fuel - food nourishes us on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. Eating for comfort doesn’t need to involve whipped cream and chocolate. Knowing a little about the effects of food helps satisfy deeper cravings while nourishing mind, body and soul.

Choosing what to eat is taken very seriously by many on the yogic path. But the endeavour doesn't stop there. In Ayurveda, the power of your digestion, known as agni or ‘fire', is the most important determinant of your health and longevity. "Whether your body makes good nutrients or toxins, known as ‘ama', from your food depends on the strength of your digestion," says Jacinta McEwen, Byron Yoga Centre Ayurveda teacher trainer.

When the cool winds of autumn begin blowing it is the season of vata, according to the traditional Indian natural health system of ayurveda. Ayurveda recognises that each individual’s constitution is a unique combination of three principles called doshas – vata, pitta and kapha – with one dosha usually more dominant. As vata predominates in autumn, vata imbalance is common to all doshas, with symptoms including anxiety, stress, restlessness, exhaustion and underweight. But there are plenty of tips and techniques you can use to rug up against vata imbalance.