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How to Follow Intermittent Fasting in Hinduism

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Intermittent fasting is deeply aligned with Hindu traditions, where fasting has long been a spiritual and healthful practice. Observing intermittent fasting in a way that resonates with Hindu principles involves integrating rituals, prayers, and worship with mindful eating.

1. Understanding Intermittent Fasting in a Hindu Context

In Hinduism, fasting (upavasa) is considered a way to purify the body, mind, and soul. It is often observed on specific days like Ekadashi, Pradosh, or during festivals and vrat (vows) dedicated to various deities.

  • Spiritual Aim: Strengthening self-discipline and detachment while focusing on the divine.
  • Health Benefits: Cleansing the body, regulating energy, and improving focus.
  • Timing: Following the 16:8 or 14:10 fasting-to-eating window aligns with sunrise and sunset cycles, reflecting Ayurvedic wisdom.

2. Simple Puja Steps During Fasting

  1. Preparation: Cleanse your home and yourself. Wear clean, sattvic (pure) clothes.
  2. Altar Setup:
    • Place a photo or idol of your chosen deity (Shiva, Vishnu, Annapurna, etc.).
    • Light a ghee lamp and incense.
  3. Offerings:
    • Fresh fruits, milk, water, and uncooked grains or nuts.
    • Tulsi leaves for Vishnu or flowers like lotus and marigold for Shiva and other deities.
  4. Mantra Chanting:
    • Begin with an invocation to Ganesha for removing obstacles.
    • Recite specific mantras or prayers (examples below).
  5. Meditation and Prayer:
    • Sit quietly for 10-15 minutes focusing on the mantra or deity.
  6. Conclude:
    • Offer a small amount of water and prasad to the deity.
    • End with a prayer of gratitude.

3. Ideal Deities to Worship During Fasting

  1. Goddess Annapurna:

    • Deity of nourishment and food.
    • Mantra:
      "Om Annapurnayai Namah"
      "Annapurne Sadaapurne Shankara Praana Vallabhe
      Jnana Vairagya Siddhyartham Bhikshaam Dehi Cha Parvati."

  2. Goddess Shakumbhari:

    • Associated with fruits, vegetables, and natural sustenance.
    • Mantra:
      "Om Shakumbharyai Vidmahe Shatapatraayai Dheemahi
      Tanno Devi Prachodayat."

  3. Lord Dhanvantari:

    • God of health and Ayurveda.
    • Mantra:
      "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
      Dhanvantaraye Amrita Kalasha Hastaaya
      Sarva Bhaya Vinashaaya
      Sarva Roga Nivaranaya
      Trilokya Pathaye Trilokya Nithaye
      Shri Maha Vishnave Namah."

  4. Ashwini Kumaras:

    • Divine healers associated with health and vitality.
    • Mantra:
      "Om Ashwini Kumarabhyam Namah."

  5. Lord Shiva:

    • Symbol of transformation and asceticism.
    • Mantra:
      "Om Namah Shivaya."

  6. Lord Vishnu:

    • Preserver of the universe and sustainer of life.
    • Mantra:
      "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya."

  7. Lord Ganesha:

    • Remover of obstacles and initiator of all auspicious activities.
    • Mantra:
      "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah."

  8. Lord Hanuman:

    • Embodiment of strength, devotion, and discipline.
    • Mantra:
      "Om Hanumate Namah."

4. Practical Steps for Modern Times

  • Plan Meals Mindfully:
    • Break your fast with sattvic foods like fruits, nuts, or khichdi. Avoid tamasic (heavy) foods like fried or overly spicy items.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink water, herbal teas, or tender coconut water.
  • Use Technology for Devotion: Play bhajans, mantras, or guided meditations on your phone.
  • Sync Fasting with Spiritual Days:
    • Follow Ekadashi or Pradosh fasting schedules if possible.
  • Combine with Yoga or Meditation: Practice gentle asanas or pranayama during fasting hours for enhanced focus.

5. Clothes and Colors to Wear

  1. Clothes:
    • Simple, comfortable attire made of cotton or natural fabrics.
    • Women can wear sarees or salwar kameez, and men can wear dhotis or kurtas.
  2. Colors:
    • White: Purity and peace, ideal for Shiva worship.
    • Yellow: Positivity and devotion, connected with Vishnu and Ganesha.
    • Green: Growth and health, linked to Shakumbhari and Dhanvantari.
    • Saffron/Orange: Spirituality and strength, associated with Hanuman.

6. Rare Facts About Fasting in Hinduism

  • Connection to Panchabhutas (Five Elements): Fasting balances the body’s energies linked to earth, water, fire, air, and ether.
  • Brain and Spirituality: Fasting is believed to sharpen memory and improve spiritual awareness by calming the mind.
  • Historical Relevance: Saints like Adi Shankaracharya advocated fasting as a way to align with dharma and spiritual growth.
  • Ayurvedic Wisdom: Aligning meals with digestive fire (Agni) during fasting is considered vital for health.

7. Additional Ideas

  1. Create a Fasting Journal:
    • Note your experiences, prayers, and any divine inspiration during fasting.
  2. Charity Work:
    • Offer food to the needy as an act of gratitude.
  3. Digital Detox:
    • Use fasting days to reduce screen time and focus on spiritual growth.
  4. Group Worship:
    • Join a satsang (spiritual gathering) or involve family members.

By combining traditional Hindu fasting rituals with a modern approach, you can create a meaningful and enriching intermittent fasting practice that nourishes your body, mind, and spirit.