Janmashtami is one of the most important festivals for devotees of Lord Krishna. It’s a day of prayers, bhajans, and fasting — observed with love and dedication. For many, the vrat (fast) is not just about skipping meals; it is a spiritual practice to purify the body and mind while focusing on devotion.
However, in the rush to follow tradition, many people forget that fasting also requires proper care of the body. Without planning, a Janmashtami fast can leave you dehydrated, weak, or even ill — which is far from the balance and joy Lord Krishna’s teachings promote.
By avoiding common fasting mistakes and choosing healthy vrat-friendly foods, you can keep your energy steady, protect your health, and still honour your devotion.
1. Not drinking enough water
Some devotees believe a fast means avoiding all liquids, but going the whole day without water can cause headaches, dizziness, and extreme fatigue. If your fasting rules allow, take sips of water, coconut water, or herbal drinks throughout the day. Hydration keeps your body functioning and prevents unnecessary strain.
2. Overeating heavy and oily foods after breaking the fast
It’s natural to crave pakoras, puris, laddoos, and other festive dishes after a day of fasting. But suddenly eating heavy, fried, and sugary foods can overwhelm your digestive system, leading to acidity, bloating, and discomfort. Give your body time to adjust by starting with lighter, easy-to-digest foods.
3. Ignoring healthy vrat-friendly options
A fast is not meant to be a day of eating fried snacks from morning till night. Include nutritious options like nuts, fruits, and grains such as buckwheat (kuttu) or amaranth (rajgira). These keep you fuller for longer and give you sustained energy instead of making you sluggish.
4. Not listening to your body’s signals
Fasting is about devotion, not punishment. If you feel extremely dizzy, weak, or faint, take a break and eat something light. Consult a doctor if needed. True devotion is about balance — caring for your health while honouring your spiritual commitment.
5. Drinking too much tea or coffee
Some people rely on caffeine to get through the day, but tea and coffee on an empty stomach can lead to acidity, restlessness, and dehydration. If you must have caffeine, keep it in moderation.
6. Breaking the fast too suddenly
Your digestive system has been resting all day. Eating a large, heavy meal immediately after fasting can cause discomfort. Instead, start with light foods like fruits, dates, or a small portion of sabudana khichdi, then gradually move to a full meal.
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1. Stay hydrated
If liquids are allowed, drink water, coconut water, or lemon water to avoid dehydration. These also help maintain electrolyte balance.
2. Add protein-rich vrat foods
Paneer, yoghurt, nuts, and seeds help you feel full and maintain your energy levels throughout the day.
3. Cook food in a healthy way
Choose steaming, roasting, or pan-searing instead of deep-frying. This keeps your vrat food light and easy on the stomach.
4. Break your fast gently
Start with fruits, a handful of nuts, or a small bowl of khichdi before moving on to heavier foods.
5. Rest and keep your mind calm
Spiritual discipline is important, but so is your physical well-being. Take breaks, meditate, and maintain a peaceful mindset.
Fruits and nuts: Bananas, apples, pomegranate, almonds, and walnuts give quick energy and keep blood sugar steady.
Dairy in moderation: Lassi, buttermilk, and milk-based sweets provide protein and calcium but should be eaten in small amounts.
Buckwheat (kuttu) and amaranth (rajgira): These gluten-free grains are rich in fibre and nutrients, making them ideal for vrat meals.
In my opinion, the true purpose of Janmashtami fasting is to connect with Lord Krishna through discipline, prayer, and self-control — not to push your body to its limits. The festival should leave you feeling spiritually uplifted, not physically exhausted.
Krishna himself taught the value of balance in life. That means respecting your body’s needs while observing your fast with devotion. If you prepare well, stay hydrated, and choose wholesome vrat foods, you can celebrate Janmashtami with both joy and good health.
This year, as you offer prayers and sing bhajans, also offer kindness to your own body. Because devotion and self-care are not separate — they are two sides of the same coin.
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