Paryushan is the most important annual festival in Jainism. It is a time for fasting, prayer, self-reflection, forgiveness, and spiritual growth . The word “Paryushan” means “to stay in one place” indicating a period when Jains pause their daily routines to focus on inner peace and spiritual growth.
Shwetambar Jains celebrate this festival for 8 days, while Digambar Jains observe it for 10 days, calling it “Dashalakshan Parv.” It usually falls in August or September, during the month of Bhadrapada. During these days, many devotees keep strict fasts. Some drink only boiled water, while others prefer one meal or two meals a day. People visit temples, recite holy texts like the Kalpasutra, and engage in deep introspection.
For many Jain devotees, the timing of food and water intake is also an important part of fasting practices during Paryushan. In certain forms of Jain fasting, meals are traditionally completed before sunset, while the next day’s routine begins after sunrise. This practice encourages mindful eating, discipline, and awareness of natural daily rhythms. However, fasting rules can vary according to individual religious practices, so it is important to follow the guidance appropriate to your tradition and fasting method.
The final day of Paryushan is called “Samvatsari.” It is the most significant day, when people seek forgiveness from everyone for any mistakes they may have made during the year – knowingly or unknowingly. They greet each other with “Micchami Dukkadam,” meaning “Please forgive me for any offense caused.”
However, while fasting has deep spiritual meaning, many people unknowingly make dietary errors that affect their health. These mistakes can cause weakness, acidity, dehydration, digestive problems, or sudden changes in blood sugar levels.
At The Diet Therapy, we believe that fasting should be both spiritually meaningful and physically safe. With proper guidance, you can complete your Paryushan fasts without harming your health or losing energy.
In this blog, we will share the top 5 most common fasting mistakes and how to avoid them with simple, science-based dietary tips from The Diet Therapy.
5 Mistakes to Avoid During Paryushan –
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Not Drinking Enough Water
During fasting, many people forget to drink enough water. Some think that eating less means they also need to drink less. This is wrong.
Why it is harmful: Water keeps your body hydrated. Without enough water, you may feel headaches, tiredness, low energy, and constipation. Dehydration can also cause dizziness, especially during long fasts.
What to do instead:
- Drink water at regular intervals through the day, not just when you feel thirsty.
- If you are allowed liquids like boiled water, sip them slowly.
Keep a bottle of water near you as a reminder to drink. - Avoid drinking a large amount of water all at once. Small sips throughout the day work better.
2. Breaking the Fast with Heavy or Fried Food
After a long fast, it feels tempting to eat something tasty and heavy immediately. Many people break their fast with fried snacks like farsan, chips, or sweets.
Why it is harmful: When your stomach has been empty for many hours, it is not ready for oily and heavy food. Eating fried food suddenly can cause acidity, bloating, gas, and stomach pain. It can also make you feel more tired instead of energetic.
What to do instead:
- Break your fast slowly with something light, like warm water, fruit juice, or a small piece of fruit.
- Wait some time before eating a full meal.
- Choose simple, easy-to-digest food first, and avoid deep-fried items right after fasting.
- Chew your food slowly and eat in small portions.
3: Skipping or Eating Very Little
Some devotees try to fast too strictly and eat very little during the days when it is allowed. They think eating less will bring more spiritual benefit.
Why it is harmful: Eating too little for many days in a row can cause weakness, low blood sugar, muscle loss, and poor concentration. This can affect your daily activities and even your ability to focus during prayers and rituals.
What to do instead:
- Eat a proper portion of , even if it is simple.
- Include nuts, and light dairy products (if allowed) to get enough energy.
- Do not compare your fasting with others. Everyone’s body is different.
Listen to your body. If you feel very weak, it is okay to eat a little more.
4: Ignoring Signs of Low Blood Sugar
Many people, especially those with diabetes or low blood pressure, ignore warning signs during fasting. Feeling dizzy, shaky, or extremely tired are signs that your blood sugar may be dropping.
Why it is harmful: Ignoring these signs can lead to fainting, severe weakness, or health emergencies. This is especially risky for elderly people, pregnant women, and people with existing health conditions.
What to do instead:
- If you feel dizzy, shaky, or unwell, stop fasting immediately and consult a doctor.
- People with diabetes or other health conditions should talk to their doctor before starting long fasts.
- Keep a fruit or a small snack nearby (as per your fasting rules) in case you need it urgently.
- Do not force yourself to complete a fast if your health does not allow it.
5: Not Planning Meals in Advance
Many people do not plan what they will eat during phalahaar days or after breaking a fast. This leads to random food choices, which are often unhealthy.
Why it is harmful: Without planning, people end up eating whatever is available, which is usually oily, sugary, or low in nutrition. This can affect digestion and energy levels throughout the festival.
What to do instead:
- Plan your phalahaar meals in advance for each day.
- Include a good mix of fruits, nuts, and light foods.
- Prepare simple, homemade food instead of buying processed or fried snacks.
- If needed, consult a dietitian to create a balanced fasting plan for the entire Paryushan period.
Conclusion:
Paryushan is a profound festival that teaches us forgiveness, patience, and self-control. It is an opportunity to cleanse not just the soul, but also the body. However, these spiritual benefits can only be fully realized when we take care of our physical well-being. By avoiding the five common fasting mistakes dehydration, fried and salty foods, overeating during Parana, excessive sugar, and neglecting rest you can transform your Paryushan experience into one that is truly healthy, peaceful, and fulfilling.
Remember, fasting is not about starving the body. It is a conscious, mindful choice to purify both body and mind. With the right guidance and a balanced approach, you can observe your fasts with confidence and well-being.
The Diet Therapy by Shweta Shaha Panchal is here to support you on this journey. With expert guidance and personalized care, we ensure that your fasting experience is not only spiritually enriching but also nutritionally balanced and safe. Our clinic in Malad is dedicated to helping you achieve your health goals through science-based dietary advice and compassionate support. Trust The Diet Therapy to be your partner in health, not just during festivals, but throughout the year.
