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Hariyali Teej fasting rules: Learn what foods to eat and avoid, and how to break the Nirjala fast properly without harming your health
By following these simple yet effective guidelines, you can break your Nirjala Vrat safely while preserving the sanctity and intent behind this auspicious tradition. (AI Generated)
Hariyali Teej is a deeply significant festival celebrated by women on the Tritiya Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Sawan. It honours Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolising love, harmony, and marital bliss. On this auspicious day, many women observe a strict Nirjala Vrat, where they abstain from both food and water until the evening prayers are completed.
Given the intensity of this fast, it’s essential to break it carefully with nourishing and suitable foods. Bhopal-based astrologer and Vastu expert Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma shares key dietary do’s and don’ts to follow during and after the fast.
Recommended Foods After Breaking The Fast
- Fresh Fruits: Begin by eating fresh fruits, especially green ones like grapes, guava, and kiwi. They are gentle on the stomach and help quickly restore energy levels.
- Milk and Dairy Products: Consuming milk, curd, or kheer helps cool the body and provides much-needed nutrition. Small quantities of milk-based sweets are also acceptable.
- Dry Fruits: Almonds, cashews, dates, and raisins are excellent post-fast snacks. They aid in restoring energy and support digestion.
- Light Sweets: Homemade, light sweets such as Ghevar and Malpua can be enjoyed in moderation. Avoid heavy, sugar-laden sweets.
- Simple, Home-Cooked Meals: After some time, you may eat a light meal consisting of roti, rice, dal, and boiled vegetables. Ensure the food is mild and oil-free, avoiding spice and heaviness.
Foods To Avoid During Hariyali Teej Fast
- Grains and Non-Vegetarian Food: Abstain from consuming grains like rice and wheat, and strictly avoid all non-vegetarian items such as meat, eggs, and fish.
- Onion and Garlic: As these are not considered satvik and are traditionally excluded from worship rituals, they should not be used during Teej fasting.
- Fried and Spicy Foods: Heavy, spicy, and oily foods are hard to digest and can cause discomfort, especially after a day of fasting.
- Stale or Junk Food: Avoid stale, processed, or market-bought fast food. These are often laced with preservatives and excess oil, making them unsuitable for breaking a fast.
- Alcohol and Intoxicants: These not only violate the sanctity of the vrat but also harm the body. All intoxicants must be strictly avoided.
- Excess Sugar or Sweets: Overeating sugary items can lead to fatigue, bloating, and even nausea. Always consume sweets in limited amounts.
Hariyali Teej is not just about spiritual devotion but also about honouring one’s body through mindful fasting. Understanding which foods support recovery post-fast is crucial to maintaining health and energy. By following these simple yet effective guidelines, you can break your Nirjala Vrat safely while preserving the sanctity and intent behind this auspicious tradition.
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