Maha Shivaratri is one of the major Hindu festivals in India. This remarkable festival includes different spiritual aspects like fasting, meditation, yoga, making different kinds of sacrifices to Lord Shiva, and drinking Bhang. Fasting plays an integral part in the festival. According to beliefs, Shivratri fasting can purify your mind and body. Here you will find more information on the significance of Shivratri fasting and different food and recipes you can try.
What are the Health Benefits of Shivaratri Fasting?
Unlike other Hindu fasts, Maha Shivaratri fasting is different and holds various aspects. After performing the pooja, most of the other fasts allow you to consume food and other items to complete the fast. On the other hand, the Maha Shivratri fast lasts an entire day and night. A proper and well-planned fasting has numerous health benefits. Some of them are discussed below.
- Detoxify the Body and Purifies the Mind:
Observing fast during the Shivratri can detoxify the body and make you feel lighter. On the other hand, it also relaxes the mind and reduces restlessness. At the same time, the body and mind become more alert and prepare one for further meditation and prayers.
- Reduces Insulin Resistance:
Fasting controls blood sugar levels, which can be helpful for diabetic patients. However, if you have any past experience of hypotension, dehydration, or hypoglycemia, it is important for you to avoid fasting or take the assistance of a health expert before practicing the fast.
- Fights Inflammation:
Although acute inflammation is the body’s natural defense against infection and other external problems, chronic inflammation can have serious health implications. Some studies have also shown that chronic inflammation is the reason behind health issues like chronic heart disease, arthritis, cancer, etc. A well-planned fasting has been shown to lower the inflammatory levels in the body and improve overall health.
- An Excellent Way to Lose Weight:
Lowering the calorie intake during fasting will help in weight loss. However, fasting during the day might contribute to fatigue and sugar cravings. In such cases, you can eat fruits and vegetables. The right type of fasting will also aid in the reduction of bloating. As you will not be taking salt during the fast, you do not have to worry about fluid retention or bloating in the body. This also helps with indigestion and bowel movements. Thus, you will be able to notice a difference in your weight when you are on a fast.
Preparing for the Maha Shivaratri Fast:
Even mild dehydration can trigger issues like exhaustion, hunger, dry mouth, or even headaches. Therefore, it is very important to drink plenty of water when you are fasting. When you are observing the Shivratri fast, it is important to drink a minimum of eight glasses of water. This will not just keep you hydrated, but also flush out toxins from the body. This will also give you the necessary energy and prevent you from feeling hungry and exhausted.
- Avoid Breaking Fast with a Feast:
It can be tempting to break the fast with a large meal or something really heavy. However, medically it is not advised. This can make you feel bloated and tired. On the other hand, consuming excessive calories can also have serious repercussions on your calorie deficit. Choosing a balanced diet to break your fast is always advisable.
- Stop Fasting If You Feel Unwell:
Feeling hungry, tired, or irritable during the fast is very common. However, you should never feel ill. You should also make sure to keep the fasting period for 24 hours or less. If you are having a sudden feeling of illness, it is important to stop the fast and consult a health expert.
Foods and Snacks to Consider:
Fruits are an essential component during any puja or fasting. You can consume different types of dry fruits, fruit salads, fruit chaat, and dry fruit-based milkshakes during the fast. You can eat a wide range of dry fruits like almonds, dates, walnuts, raisins, cashews, dried apricots etc. You can easily buy premium quality dry fruits from Healthy Master.
- Milk Based Desserts:
During the fast, milk is consumed in large quantities. Milk and milk-based beverages are popular during the fasting. You can consume thandai, almond milk, badam doodh, sabudana kheer, or makhana ki kheer during the fast. They will keep your body energized and refreshed for long periods.
Conclusion:
If you take proper care and consideration, Maha Shivaratri fasting can be very beneficial. Spiritually, it can strengthen prayers and help one to atone for sins. Mindful fasting will help you to seek refuge in divine consciousness.
