Puranas, Dharmasutras and Smritis contain instruction on religious
practices that a Hindu should follow to attain peace and prosperity. Here are
the six religious practices:
- Follow Dharma
There is no literal translation or meaning for Dharma in
English. Dharma is seeing Supreme Truth in all animate and inanimate. It is avoiding
greediness, anger, ego, and hatred. It is taking from nature only that much
which is needed for sustenance. It is practicing equality.
- Worship of Cow
It is widely believed in Hinduism that Gods reside in the
body of the cow. Worship of cow is a sort of nature worship. Offering worship of cow daily and giving it the first food
prepared at home earns merit. It is a way of remaining connected with nature.
- Worship of Tulsi
The entire Tulsi plant is holy and is filled with medicinal properties.
Vishnu resides in the form of Shaligram or Sri Krishna near the Tulsi plant. It is a sign of auspiciousness. It ushers in positive energy.
- Water from Ganga River – Ganga Jal
Keeping Ganga Jal at home keeps out all forms of
negativities.
- Daily Puja and Prayers at Home
A space should be designated for performing daily puja at
home. Ishta Devata should be worshipped daily. A mantra should be chanted.
- Fasting
A vrat should be observed once in a fortnight or once in a
month. It can be any vrat Ekadasi, Pradosh, Sashti or Sankashti. It is meant for achieving spiritual discipline. It also helps in keeping the body fit by flushing out toxins.