In the initial stages of practice, a diet of milk and ghee is recommended. Once practice has been firmly established, such restrictions are not necessary.

This verse addresses diet during different stages of practice. In the initial phases (prathame), a diet based on milk (kṣīra) and ghee (ājya) is recommended. These foods are considered sāttvic (pure) and easily digestible.

Milk and ghee provide internal lubrication, calm the nervous system, and nourish the subtle tissues (dhātus). Ghee in particular is valued in Āyurveda for its ability to transport nutrients and herbs to the deepest tissues of the body.

However, once practice is dṛḍhībhūta (firmly established), the yogī can be more flexible with dietary restrictions (niyamagraha). This indicates that the body, transformed by years of practice, can handle a wider variety of foods without negatively affecting prāṇāyāma.