India is a land of mythology and rituals. We celebrate the NAVRATRI festival twice a year; for a span of 9 days each with great pomp and enthusiasm. People wear new clothes, decorate their worship places, visit temples, play Garba, etc. Most people indulge themselves in fasting during this festive period. Some of them fast for few days and a few for complete 9 days. The days for which people fast depends upon their customs, rituals, willingness, or enthusiasm.
I have used the word ‘Fasting’ several times. Fasting implies reducing ounces of weight and your waistline. But this does not hold true for Navratri. The kind of food and snacks we indulge in during this festive season; leads to an increase in our weight post NAVRATRAs. As these days we all are acquainted with the concept of HEALTHY LIVING & HEALTHY EATING; here are few tips to be followed during this NAVRATRA season:
- GO FOR HEALTHY VRAT ITEMS: You can select from a variety of items like fruits, vegetables, kuttu atta, samak rice, dairy products, etc. Select the food items which does not put unnecessary pressure on your belly. Do not indulge much in sweet and fried items. Go for jaggery or honey while preparing sweet dishes.
- AVOID PROCESSED FOOD ITEMS: Processed food items are rich in saturated oil and salt content. This can lead to increasing your fat level and cholesterol. Avoid chips, namkeen, etc. during fasting.
- AVOID OVEREATING: We usually overeat during the festive season. When we are fasting, we have a tendency to overeat. The food delicacies are usually mouth-watering during festivals. Break your complete day into 5-6 small eating intervals. This way you will neither overeat nor remain undernourished.
- STAY HYDRATED: As we are fasting, we may feel low at some parts of the day. Drink lots of water, coconut water, and fresh juices, and keep yourself hydrated.
- GO FOR DAIRY PRODUCTS: One should go for dairy products during fasting to maintain your energy levels. Drink milk, buttermilk and eat lots of cheese (paneer).
- EAT NUTS: Eating nuts keep you healthy and give you a lot of energy. You can go for almonds, raisins, pistachios, etc. during this time period. You can also go for makhanas. To add spice to the festive season, you can roast for dry nuts.
- TAKE A SOUND SLEEP: Fasting brings your body into detox mode. We need to have enough sleep during the detox period; else we can have symptoms of nausea and dizziness. Enjoy your 8 hours of sleep during fasting.
- GO FOR A WALK: By any chance you overeat, the walk is the best remedy. Further walking during both the season NAVRATRI gives you positive vibes from your surroundings.
HAPPY AND HEALTHY FASTING THIS NAVRATRIS!!!
Written by Mrs. Ruchi Mehta
Health Blogger
