Here’s a simple Jain guide to “Ekāśan (Ekashna) and Pārṇā”

1) What is Ekāśan (Ekashna)

• Meaning: Eating only once in a day, in one sitting, during daylight.
• Spirit: Restraint of taste and quantity, supporting inner calm and non‑attachment.

2) Basic rules (simple, traditional)

• Time: Take food after sunrise and finish before sunset, in one continuous sitting.
• One sitting: Get up only when you are fully done. No returning to add or change items.
• Simplicity: Take limited items; avoid variety for the sake of taste.
• Purity: Strict Jain vegetarian; avoid roots, honey, alcohol, fermented items, and leftovers.
• Water: Use filtered/boiled water; generally only in daytime.
• Night: No eating or drinking after sunset.

3) Shvetāmbara and Digambara notes

• Shvetāmbara: Ekāśan is once in the day, before sunset; boiled water usually allowed in daytime only.
• Digambara: Emphasis on stricter restraint; only daytime intake; absolutely nothing after sunset.

(The essence is the same—one daytime meal with maximum simplicity and vigilance.)

4) What is Pārṇā

• Meaning: The proper, mindful ending of a fast (e.g., Upavās, Aṭṭham, etc.). Ekāśan itself is not a fast, so “pārṇā” is normally said when ending a true fast of one or more days.
• Spirit: Gratitude, humility, and careful re‑entry from austerity to regular food.

5) Pārṇā basics (when ending a fast)

• Timing: After sunrise, within the prescribed time window for that fast, and before sunset.
• Begin gently: First take small sips of warm/boiled water; then light, simple food.
• Simplicity: Khichdi, thin gruel, or very light, non‑spicy food; avoid heavy, fried, or rich items.
• Mindfulness: Do Navkār Mantra, offer bhāv of forgiveness and gratitude before starting.
• No indulgence: Keep portions small; avoid sudden variety or overeating.

6) Step‑by‑step: Easy Ekāśan practice

• Before: Decide the items in advance; keep them simple and limited.
• Cleanliness: Ensure utensils, water, and place are clean and filtered as per Jain practice.
• While eating: Sit calmly, recite Navkār, eat slowly, stop before fullness.
• After: Rinse mouth, maintain saiyam; no further food or water after sunset.

7) Step‑by‑step: Safe Pārṇā (ending a fast)

• Prepare body: Sit quietly; start with warm/boiled water in small sips.
• First foods: Soft, light, easy‑to‑digest items (e.g., thin khichdi or moong broth).
• Pace: Small amounts, wait, then a little more if the body accepts.
• Gratitude: Conclude with prayer and maitri‑bhāv.

8) Health and care

• If you feel dizzy, weak, or unwell, reduce austerity or take guidance from a knowledgeable elder/vaidya.
• People with medical conditions should consult a Jain‑aware physician before long fasts.

Essence

• Ekāśan: One simple daytime meal to cultivate restraint.
• Pārṇā: Gentle, grateful, and timely breaking of a true fast.

If you want a short printable checklist for Ekāśan and Pārṇā, see this quick reference: