Sawan, the most auspicious month as per the Hindu calendar, has begun. This festive month is devoted to Lord Shiva & those who worship him will receive abundant blessings. Devotees wake up early in the morning, observe fast and even visit the temple regularly. Indian men and women are well-versed with ‘Solah Somwar’, or 16 days of fasting and observing them fulfil their wish to get a suitable life partner. Other than wishing for a suitable partner, fast during Sawan gets observed to achieve success and prosperity. The ‘Sawan Somvar Vrat’ is observed especially on Mondays.
While many of you already know what you must do during this holy month. We’re going to share with you a few do’s and don’ts that you must follow while observing fasting during this Sawan month.
Here are the do’s to follow:
• While you observe the fast this month, it’s scientifically proven to deliver many health benefits.
• During the fast, you can chant the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
• Wear Rudraksha during this month as it is considered auspicious as per the Hindu culture.
• Visit the Shiva temple regularly and offer a mixture of ghee, milk, yoghurt, honey, Ganga jal collectively, known as Panchamrut. Also, Bilva leaves.
Foods to be eaten during the Sawan fast
One must opt for a Sattvik diet.
• Milk
• Yoghurt
• Buttermilk
• Cottage Cheese
• Paneer
• Sweet Potato
• Sabudana
• Fox Nuts
• Singhara
• Buckwheat
Here are a few don’ts to follow:
• Avoid consuming alcohol during this holy month.
• Shaving is not allowed during Sawan month.
• Do not break your fast in between.
• You should not eat non-vegetarian food.
• Say no to garlic, onion, ginger and eggplant (avoided by most).
Foods to Avoid:
• Grains, rice or lentils
• Radish
• Tamasic foods or heaty foods (fish, meat, vinegar, mushrooms & leftovers)
• Spices like hing, salt (except rock salt) & fenugreek
Always stay hydrated by consuming enough water. It’s known that fasting is the best method to eliminate toxins from the body. Observe fast, and practice yoga/meditation to stay in shape and get the blessings of Lord Shiva this Sawan.
