Practicing Jainism as a lay person (śrāvaka for men, śrāvikā for women) involves following specific ethical guidelines, rituals, and spiritual practices appropriate for householders. Here are the key aspects:

1. Observe the Five Main Vows (Anuvratas)

Laypersons are expected to follow these vows to the best of their ability, though less strictly than monks:

1. Ahimsa Anuvrata (Non-violence): Avoid intentional harm to all living beings in thought, word, and deed.
2. Satya Anuvrata (Truthfulness): Speak only the truth, with kindness and discretion.
3. Achaurya/ Asteya Anuvrata (Non-stealing): Do not take anything that is not willingly given.
4. Brahmacharya Anuvrata (Chastity): Practice faithfulness in marriage and control over sensual pleasures.
5. Aparigraha Anuvrata (Non-possessiveness): Limit desires and possessions, and practice generosity.

2. Additional Vows (Supplementary Vows)

• Guṇa Vratas: Three vows to strengthen the above, including limiting travel and consumption.
• Śikṣā Vratas: Four disciplinary vows, such as periodic fasting, limiting daily activities, and meditating.

3. Daily Practices

• Prayer and Meditation: Spend time in prayer, reflection, and reciting Jain mantras (e.g., Navkar Mantra).
• Samayik: Practice equanimity and meditation, ideally for 48 minutes daily.
• Swadhyaya: Study Jain scriptures and philosophy regularly.

4. Dietary Practices

• Strictly follow a vegetarian diet. Avoid root vegetables and foods that involve more harm to living beings.
• Many also avoid eating after sunset (Chauvihar), and may practice fasting (Upvas) on auspicious days.

5. Charity and Compassion

• Practice dana (charity), especially towards monks, the needy, and animals.

6. Participate in Jain Festivals and Rituals

• Engage in festivals like Paryushana, Mahavir Jayanti, and observe rituals such as Pratikraman (repentance) and Pooja.

7. Community Involvement

• Support and participate in Jain Sangha (community) activities.
• Respect and assist Jain monks and nuns.

8. Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct

• Strive for the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya) as the path to liberation: Samyak Darshan (right faith), Samyak Jnana (right knowledge), and Samyak Charitra (right conduct).

9. Live a Life of Self-Discipline

• Control passions such as anger, pride, deceit, and greed.
• Practice forgiveness and tolerance.

10. Education and Family Life

• Instill Jain values in children and family members.
• Balance spiritual growth with worldly responsibilities.

By sincerely following these guidelines, a lay person can meaningfully practice Jainism and progress spiritually while fulfilling worldly duties.