Spiritual reason and health benefits of fasting on Ram Ekadashi

Ram Ekadashi is a sacred day that holds immense significance in the Hindu calendar. This year, it falls on the 8th of November, just four days before Diwali. Devotees observe this fast to worship Lord Vishnu, the husband of Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that observing a fast on Ram Ekadashi can wash away all sins and bring immense blessings. In this article, celebrity astrologer Parduman Suri explores the spiritual significance and the intriguing health benefits associated with this observance.

According to the Hindu calendar, there are typically 24 Ekadashis in a year, but in a year with an extra month, there are 26. Each Ekadashi holds mythological significance, and Ram Ekadashi falls in the Kartik month, offering devotees a chance to seek liberation from worldly deeds.

Ekadashi involves controlling the five senses, five organs of action, and the internal organ, the mind. The fast is observed to gain mastery over these aspects. It's important to note that fasting and abstinence are not the same. Fasting involves making a pledge, while abstinence is about self-reflection and introspection.

Remarkably, there's an intriguing scientific perspective associated with Ekadashi fasting. According to the research of Italian scientist Dr. Walter Lengo, those who observe fasts may have a reduced risk of cancer. Dr. Lengo conducted experiments on cancer-afflicted rats and concluded that fasting, although not a cure for cancer, can reduce the harmful effects of chemotherapy. During fasting, individuals stay awake for 24 hours and abstain from eating. This period of wakefulness without food allows for heightened self-awareness.

Rice consumption is prohibited on Ekadashi, and there's a fascinating reason behind it. Ekadashi falls four days before Amavasya (new Moon), and it's believed that the churning of the cosmic ocean is influenced by the Moon's movement during this time. Since the Moon remains in a calm state within the body during Ekadashi, rice consumption is avoided, as its cultivation requires a significant amount of water.

Observing the Ram Ekadashi fast is said to yield results equivalent to the mythical Kamadhenu and Chintamani. Devotees believe that this fast can purify them from all sins and ultimately lead to liberation in the afterlife. Additionally, the effects of this fast are believed to bring prosperity and wealth, pleasing Goddess Lakshmi.

Kartik Krishna Ekadashi begins: November 8, 2023, at 08:26 AM
Kartik Krishna Ekadashi ends: November 9, 2023, at 10:42 AM

- Light a red candle inside the house.
- Purify the house with Ganga water and perform the puja of Lakshmi-Narayan.
- Offer a dish of buttered rice pudding to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, adding Tulsi leaves.
- Worshipping a single coconut on Ram Ekadashi is considered highly auspicious, as it is believed to invite Goddess Lakshmi into the home.

Ram Ekadashi is not only a spiritually significant day but also offers potential health benefits through fasting. It's a time for self-reflection, purification, and seeking blessings from the divine. Whether for spiritual reasons or the potential health advantages, observing Ram Ekadashi fast is a meaningful and enriching practice for many.