Answer

Yes, if your hunger is becoming too difficult, or if you feel weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, shaking, or health risk, you may break your upvas.

In Jain Dharma, tapasya should be done with awareness, humility, and capacity — not with harm to the body or ego.

Explanation

Upvas is a sacred form of tapasya, but it should be done according to one’s physical strength and health. If continuing the fast may disturb your health, it is better to break it calmly and respectfully.

You can break it with a peaceful feeling, without guilt, and with the intention:

• “I did this tapasya as much as my capacity allowed.”
• “May I continue spiritual practice with more strength and awareness.”

If possible, break the fast gently with suitable Jain food or warm water, depending on your practice and family tradition.

Spiritual Understanding

The purpose of upvas is not only to avoid food, but to reduce attachment, control desires, and purify the soul. If the body is under serious strain, the mind may become disturbed, and the spiritual purpose may be lost.

Takeaway

Do not feel guilty. Break your upvas if needed, do it respectfully, and continue your bhavna, prayer, samayik, or inner reflection with devotion.