Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Yogini Ekadashi is a sacred day in the Hindu calendar dedicated to purifying the body, mind, and soul through a disciplined fast (vrat). Observed on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the waning moon (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Ashadha, this fast is a powerful act of devotion to Lord Vishnu, believed to absolve sins and promote immense well-being.
The essence of the Ekadashi fast lies not just in abstaining from food, but in consuming a satvik diet—one that is pure, light, and conducive to spiritual clarity. If you plan to observe this auspicious fast, here is a helpful guide on what to eat and what to avoid.
Nourishing Foods for Your Vrat (What to Eat)
The focus is on light, natural, and easily digestible foods. Your meal plan can include:
Fruits: All types of fruits are encouraged. They provide natural sugars for energy and keep you hydrated.
Milk and Dairy: Milk, yogurt (dahi), and paneer are permissible and provide essential protein and calcium.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, peanuts, and makhana (fox nuts) are excellent for healthy fats and sustained energy.
Specific Vegetables: Certain vegetables like bottle gourd (lauki), pumpkin, potato, and sweet potato are allowed.
Ekadashi-Friendly Flours: Since all grains are forbidden, special flours like buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta), water chestnut flour (singhara ka atta), and amaranth flour (rajgira ka atta) are used to make rotis or puris. Sabudana (tapioca pearls) is also a popular choice.
Seasoning: Regular table salt is avoided. Instead, use rock salt (sendha namak) for seasoning. Spices like black pepper, ginger, and green chilies can be used.
Foods and Habits to Strictly Avoid
To maintain the sanctity of the fast, certain foods and substances, considered tamasic (dulling) or rajasic (agitating), must be avoided:
All Grains and Legumes: This is the most crucial rule. Rice, wheat, corn, millet, and all types of lentils (dal) and beans are strictly forbidden.
Certain Vegetables: Onions, garlic, mushrooms, cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage are considered non-satvik and should be avoided.
Non-Vegetarian Food: Meat, fish, and eggs are completely prohibited.
Other Prohibited Items: Honey, processed foods, regular salt, and packaged juices should not be consumed.
Intoxicants: Alcohol and tobacco are strictly forbidden as they interfere with spiritual focus and purity.
Breaking the Fast (Parana)
The fast is officially broken the next day, on Dwadashi, after sunrise. This process, known as Parana, must be done within a specific time window to reap the full benefits of the vrat. Devotees typically break the fast with a simple meal that includes grains, such as rice.
Ultimately, Yogini Ekadashi is more than a dietary ritual; it's a day for spiritual introspection, prayer, and connecting with the divine.
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