Fasting in the month of Shravan is considered very auspicious. Knowing this a lot of Hindus indulge in this activity, in this month. But are they all doing it right? There is a no answer to this as everyone is following their own method. Before taking up a fast, one must know the actual meaning of fasting.It is a method of cleansing your body and also a way of understanding your self control. It does not have to be a traumatic experience. Fasting in this month has a scientific reason along with the religious one. During this month people refrain from eating non vegetarian food.

This is because of the simple fact that Shravan falls in the rainy season in which there is a greater possibility of animals carrying diseases in their body. It is also said that, this is the breeding time of many of the marine animals. The female wish could be carrying their eggs and killing an animal when pregnant is considered a greater sin than otherwise. While fulfilling your religious duties, you must not neglect your health. To create a balance in both these aspects, there are a few things you must keep in mind while fasting in this Shravana Masam.

It is observed most often that people who fast a lot tend to be on the heavier side. This is because of the habit of eating deep fried snacks, during and after fasting. Most people like to eat things like potatoes, sabudana, fried foods and sweets during this time. Also since you have not eaten for long, you tend to eat more after you break your fast. Since cereals and pulses are not had for the entire month of Shravan, people must include 500-750 ml of milk in their diet along with 30-50 gms of paneer or channa. They must also have a lot of dry fruits during this time. Fasting for the whole month with limited nutrition may cause constipation. To avoid that drink about 8-10 glasses of water per day.

Kruti Beesam