6 Things to Keep in Mind While Fasting for Saawan Somwar

Why people fast on Sawan Somwar?

Lord Shiva represents stillness, introspection, and transcendence, which is why people meditate on Shiva. Keeping fast on Mondays, also considered pleasing to Shiva, but they do not know that vrat is not merely about abstaining from food, but rather about balancing the body and elevating the mind. Fasting in Sawan is symbolic of withdrawing from worldly indulgences to connect with inner silence.

Vrat bhojan

Vrat food should be Sattvic, which is simple, fresh, and full of pranic energy, such as sabudana, kuttu, singhara, fruits, sweet potatoes, boiled potatoes, milk, yogurt, and coconut water. Also, if your body allows, and you are in good health, keep your body on a liquid diet and consume water, or other fruit juices/lemon drinks.

Avoid these food mistakes

People include food like salt, grains, processed food, or pulses that contain additives in their fasting. These are considered Tamasic, which will increase lethargy, emotional disturbance, and cloud spiritual clarity. Instead, consume fibrous fruits, nuts, and parboiled veggies.

Health benefits of fasting

Saawan is often mistaken for a detox diet or social trend, but it offers various health benefits, including hormonal balance, digestive rest, and mental clarity. Other than this, fostering self-discipline and inner peace contributes to overall spiritual growth.

Muhurta in Sawan Somwar

According to Vedic tradition, Muhurta is key to maximising the spiritual current of any practice. The Brahma Muhurat is considered the best time to bathe and begin prayers, and one should perform Jalabhishek or Rudrabhishek in the early hours and chant Shiv mantras or perform silent meditation throughout the day.

Simplicity of rituals

Devotees often complicate the puja process, whereas Lord Shiva accepts even a single drop of water with pure devotion. The minimalist approach with pure devotion and sincerity can be more spiritually rewarding than any complicated steps.

Emotional Preparedness

Fasting is a form of Tapasya, than merely a physical act. If fast is observed while carrying resentment, stress, or emotional volatility, the purpose of calming the mind is defeated. Be mindful of your thoughts, reactions, and speech. The offerings should not be made with any negative thoughts, as it will hamper inner peace.