How to fast in paryushan

In Jainism, fasting during Paryushan is a significant spiritual practice aimed at self-purification, penance, and deepening one's commitment to non-violence (ahimsa) and other vows. Here is how fasting is typically observed during Paryushan:

Types of Fasting (Upvaas) in Paryushan

1. Upvaas (One-Day Fast): No food is consumed, only boiled water is taken, and that too only during daylight hours.
2. Ekasana: Eating only one meal a day, usually before sunset, and only boiled water after.
3. Biyasan: Eating twice a day, again only during daylight.
4. Ayambil: Consuming only one bland, tasteless meal per day made of simple grains and pulses, without spices, milk, ghee, oil, fruits, or vegetables.
5. Atthai: Fasting for all 8 days of Paryushan, taking only boiled water during daylight.
6. Varsitap: A more advanced type of fasting, usually alternating days of complete fasting and one meal for a set period.

Steps to Perform a Fast during Paryushan

1. Niyama (Resolve): Begin with a firm resolve (Niyama) to fast for a particular duration and type, ideally taken in the presence of a Guru or at the temple.
2. Preparation: Prepare the mind and body in advance by gradually reducing food intake and practicing self-discipline.
3. Abstain from Food: Depending on the type of fast, abstain from food completely or restrict to a specific diet (e.g., Ayambil).
4. Boiled Water Only: Drink only boiled water, and only between sunrise and sunset.
5. Spiritual Practices:

- Spend time in prayer, meditation, reading Jain scriptures, and seeking forgiveness (Pratikraman). - Avoid negative thoughts, speech, and actions.

1. Introspection and Repentance: Focus on self-examination, repentance for past mistakes, and forgiveness.
2. Break the Fast (Parna): End the fast after sunrise with a simple meal, ideally with the blessings of monks, nuns, or elders. The Parna is often performed after seeking forgiveness (Samvatsari Pratikraman).

Important Guidelines

• Fasting should be done according to one’s physical and mental capacity.
• The intention behind fasting should be spiritual upliftment, not merely for ritual or social reasons.
• If health does not permit, one can perform other forms of penance (e.g., Ayambil, giving up favorite foods, extra prayers).

Spiritual Significance

Fasting in Paryushan is not just about abstaining from food, but also from negative emotions and harmful actions. The focus is on purifying the soul, practicing forgiveness, and progressing on the path of liberation (moksha).

Note: Always consult elders or Jain monks for guidance on how to observe fasting based on your personal situation and health.

Micchami Dukkadam (I seek forgiveness for any mistakes in this explanation).