Why We Fast on Janmashtami: Rules and Benefits

Janmashtami is a very special festival for all of us who love Lord Krishna. On this day, we celebrate the birth of Krishna, who is known for his wisdom, love, and playful nature. Many people choose to fast on Janmashtami to show their devotion to Krishna. Fasting means not eating food or eating very little as a way to focus more on prayers and Krishna. In this blog, we will talk about why fasting is important, how it helps us spiritually and physically, and the different ways you can fast.

Spiritual Benefits of Fasting: How Fasting Brings You Closer to Krishna

Fasting on Janmashtami is not just about avoiding food. It’s a way to connect deeply with Lord Krishna. When we fast, we are telling Krishna that we love him more than we love food. This makes our prayers stronger and our connection with Krishna deeper. When we fast, our mind becomes calm and focused on Krishna, instead of thinking about other things. This calmness helps us feel the presence of Krishna in our hearts. Fasting also teaches us patience and self-control, which are important qualities in life.

By fasting, we are showing respect to Krishna. We are saying, “Krishna, today I want to think only about you and nothing else.” This simple act of devotion can bring a lot of peace and happiness to our lives. It also reminds us that Krishna is always with us, helping us and guiding us through life.

Tips for Safe Fasting: How to Stay Healthy While Fasting

Fasting is good for our soul, but it’s important to take care of our body too. Here are some easy tips to help you fast safely on Janmashtami:

1. Drink Plenty of Water: Even if you are fasting, it’s very important to drink enough water. Water keeps you hydrated and helps prevent tiredness and dizziness. If you are doing a fast where you can drink water, make sure to have water regularly throughout the day.
2. Eat Fruits and Nuts: If you are not doing a full fast, you can eat fruits, nuts, and milk. These foods are light but give you enough energy to keep you going. Eating small portions of these foods can help you stay strong and avoid feeling too hungry.
3. Rest Well: Fasting can sometimes make you feel weak, especially if you are not used to it. It’s important to rest and take it easy during the day. Avoid heavy physical activities like lifting heavy things or doing too much work. Your body needs rest to maintain energy.
4. Listen to Your Body: Everyone’s body is different. If you feel too weak, tired, or dizzy, it’s okay to eat something light. The main purpose of fasting is to show your love and devotion to Krishna, not to harm your health. If you need to eat, do so with a prayer in your heart.
5. Prepare in Advance: Plan your fasting day in advance. Make sure you have all the fruits, nuts, and other fasting-friendly foods ready. This will help you stay focused on your prayers and avoid unnecessary stress.

Different Types of Fasts: Simple Ways to Fast on Janmashtami

There are different ways to fast on Janmashtami. You can choose the type of fast that suits you best. Here are some common types of fasts:

Nirjala Upvas (No Water and Food): This is the strictest type of fast where you don’t eat or drink anything the whole day. This fast is very difficult and is usually done by people who are very strong in their faith and devotion. People who do this fast usually break it at midnight, the time when Krishna was born.

Phalahar Upvas (Fruits and Milk): In this type of fast, you avoid grains, vegetables, and other regular foods, but you can eat fruits, nuts, and drink milk. This fast is easier to follow and still helps you stay connected to Krishna throughout the day. It’s a good option if you want to fast but still need some energy to get through the day.

Satvik Upvas (Simple Food): In this fast, you can eat simple foods like boiled potatoes, sabudana (tapioca), and kuttu (buckwheat). You avoid foods with onion, garlic, and regular salt, and instead use rock salt (sendha namak). This fast is very common and allows you to eat light while still focusing on Krishna.

Partial Upvas: If a full-day fast is too difficult for you, you can try a partial fast. This means you skip one meal, like breakfast or lunch, or eat a very light diet throughout the day. This type of fast is easier and still shows your devotion to Krishna.

More About Janmashtami Fasting: A Day Full of Devotion

Janmashtami fasting is not just about what you eat or don’t eat. It’s a day full of devotion, prayers, and remembering Krishna’s teachings. Many people spend the day chanting Krishna’s name, reading the Bhagavad Gita, and listening to stories about Krishna’s life. In the evening, there is usually a special puja, where everyone prays together and sings bhajans (devotional songs). The fast is often broken at midnight, the exact time when Krishna was born.

Fasting on Janmashtami also teaches us about discipline. It helps us understand that we don’t always need to give in to our desires and that we can control our mind and body. This discipline is not just for Janmashtami but is something we can carry forward into our daily lives. It reminds us to focus on what truly matters—our spiritual growth and our connection with the divine.

Conclusion

Fasting on Janmashtami is a beautiful way to celebrate Krishna’s birth. It’s a time to show our love and devotion to Krishna, to cleanse our mind and body, and to focus on what is truly important. Whether you choose to do a strict fast or a simple one, remember that the most important thing is the love and devotion in your heart. May Krishna bless you with peace, joy, and good health this Janmashtami.

Jai Shri Krishna!