During Paryushan, one of the most important Jain festivals, followers focus on spiritual upliftment, self-discipline, and purification. Here are the main practices and what Jains strive to do during Paryushan:

1. Pratikraman (Introspection and Repentance):

Daily introspection, confession, and seeking forgiveness for any harm caused, intentionally or unintentionally.

1. Fasting (Upvaas):

Many Jains observe fasts of varying degrees—from complete fasting (no food or water) to eating only once a day or consuming only boiled water.

1. Reading and Listening to Scriptures:

Studying Jain Agamas and scriptures like the Kalpasutra, and attending discourses (pravachans) to understand the teachings of Tirthankaras.

1. Ahimsa (Non-violence):

Practicing heightened non-violence in thoughts, words, and actions. Extra care is taken to avoid harming even the smallest living beings.

1. Self-Restraint and Renunciation:

Limiting desires, avoiding indulgence, and practicing celibacy, truthfulness, non-stealing, and detachment.

1. Charity and Service (Daan and Seva):

Performing acts of charity, helping the needy, and serving monks and nuns.

1. Forgiveness (Kshamapana/Kshama Yachna):

On the last day (Samvatsari for Shwetambar or Kshamavani for Digambar), seeking forgiveness from all beings for any harm caused, and forgiving others.

1. Meditation and Prayer:

Spending time in meditation (dhyana), chanting mantras, and engaging in prayers.

The goal of Paryushan is self-purification, spiritual upliftment, and moving closer to the path of liberation (moksha) as taught in Jainism.