Many cultures throughout India celebrate Navratri with a lot of enthusiasm and unique traditional rituals. For example Durga Puja pandals in north-east, Kolu celebration in south, Garba in west and so on. Navratri is typically celebrated twice a year—during the spring (Vasant) and fall (Sharadiya)—the two major seasonal changes when our bodies become more susceptible to imbalances. During this seasonal shift, our doshas experience an internal variation, and by managing our food habits and lifestyle, we can improve our immunity and strength while detoxifying ourselves—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
In this blog, we will explore why fasting during Navratri is recommended by Ayurveda, how it impacts our health, and how we can optimize the benefits of fasting.
Why People Observe Fasts During Navratri
Observing fasts during this time is considered auspicious as it appeases Maa Durga. As per Hindu mythology, the Goddess Durga herself explained the rules of Navratri fasting to her devotees. Additionally, fasting is believed to restore the glow and luminosity of the skin, making it an ideal time for detoxification. As per the science of Ayurveda, following healthy fasting tips and consuming light, easily digestible foods during these days helps improve the digestive fire, detoxify the body of impurities, and build the ‘ojas’ (vital energy) that ultimately reflects as outer radiance or ‘tejas’.
Health Benefits of Fasting During Navratri
Fasting during Navratri is not merely a religious practice; it comes with numerous health benefits, particularly in the context of Ayurveda:
- Detoxification: Fasting encourages the body to eliminate toxins, allowing for a natural detoxification process. This effectively leads to improvement in overall health.
Tip: Many people do juice fasting to detoxify their body on a regular basis.
- Boosts Immunity: Consuming a Sattvic diet—rich in fruits, nuts, and gluten-free grains—during Navratri can enhance the immune system, making the body more resilient against diseases.
Tip: Many Ayurvedic herbs and concoctions, like Chayawanprash, are known to improve immunity and can be had around the year.
- Improves Digestion: Fasting allows the digestive system to rest, which can improve digestion and metabolism. A lighter diet eases the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.
Tip: Many people have herbal tea at least once a day to improve their digestion and metabolism.
- Mental Clarity and Focus: The practice of fasting is believed to enhance mental clarity and focus, facilitating a deeper spiritual connection and inner reflection during the festival.
Tip: The ayurvedic herb Ashwagandha is known to have positively powerful effects on our cognition and focus.
- Weight Management: Fasting can promote weight loss by controlling calorie intake and promoting healthy eating habits. It encourages the consumption of nutritious foods, which can help in maintaining a healthy weight.
- Enhances Skin Health: Fasting can lead to clearer skin, as the detoxification process helps eliminate impurities. A healthy, glowing complexion is often a result of a balanced diet and regular fasting.
Tip: Using an ayurvedic oil or face oil can help keep skin clear and healthy.
- Spiritual Awakening: Beyond physical health, fasting is an opportunity for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and mindfulness, aligning one's thoughts and actions with the divine.
Tips to Keep Your Energy Levels Up While Fasting
For working professionals, managing a proper schedule and work efficiency while fasting can be challenging. Here are some great tips to keep your energy levels up at work during Navratri:
- Don’t Overwork Yourself: Set a clear work schedule and don’t let fatigue overcome you. Navratri fasts are meant to help your body rest and detoxify; overburdening yourself can negatively impact your health.
- Make Healthy Food Choices: Fasting isn’t an excuse to indulge in unhealthy snacks. Opt for energy-boosting fruits like bananas, apples, and oranges, which can keep your energy levels in check.
- Maintain Fluid Levels: Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of herbal teas, vegetable juices, and fruit juices. This will help replenish your body fluids and maintain energy.
- Prevent Acidity: Eating small portions of fruits or nuts throughout the day can prevent acidity and provide sustained energy.
- Keep Energy Levels in Check: When breaking your fast, consume protein-rich foods and whole carbs to ensure you have enough energy for the next day.
- Avoid Stress: Stress can be detrimental to your health during fasting. Take short breaks when needed, and ensure you have enough fasting-friendly snacks on hand to reduce stressful situations.
Conclusion
Navratri is a time for celebration, inner reflection, and spiritual awakening, and fasting is one of the most common ways to channel one’s energies toward the divine in various religions. In Ayurveda, fasting is essential to rejuvenate the body and mind. As working professionals, we often forget to take a break, and Navratri fasting serves as a reminder to prioritize our health and well-being. Embrace this festive season with a mindful approach to fasting, and enjoy the numerous benefits it offers.
Authored by:
Team Pravek
