3 october 2024 : Navratri 2024: As Navratri approaches, excitement builds for one of the year’s grandest festivals. Celebrated nationwide, Navratri, which means “nine nights,” honors the nine forms of Goddess Durga, with each day dedicated to a different manifestation: Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Maa Skandamata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kalaratri, Maa Mahagauri, and Maa Siddhidatri. Traditionally, devotees fast during the festival to receive the blessings of Goddess Durga.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Akshata Chavan, a clinical dietitian at Wockhardt Hospitals, explained that fasting during festivals can enhance mindfulness and foster a deeper connection to the rituals. She emphasized the importance of fasting safely, staying hydrated, and avoiding overindulgence when breaking the fast.
Chavan outlined several benefits of fasting:
Enhanced Mental Clarity: Fasting can boost mental clarity and focus by stabilizing blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation. Research indicates that intermittent fasting may lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Detoxification and Weight Management: Fasting helps the body reset and detoxify by shifting from digesting food to utilizing stored energy, which can encourage fat metabolism and assist in weight management.
Improved Digestion: Giving the digestive system a break can reduce bloating and enhance digestion. Fasting allows the digestive tract to rest and repair, potentially leading to better nutrient absorption when normal eating resumes.