Here is a simple, traditional overview of food practices during Paryushan (10 days) in Jainism. Note that exact rules can vary by community (Digambar vs. Shwetambar) and individual vrata.

• Core idea: Paryushan is a period of purification, repentance, and spiritual practice. Food practices are a supportive part of this, but the main focus is on fasting, pratikraman, and reflection.

• Common fasting practices (vary by family and community):

- Full fast on some days (no food) or partial fast on most days. - One meal a day (ekasan) on several days. - Eat only light, simple foods prepared without grains or roots on certain days (in some communities), or eat only boiled vegetables and plain yogurt; others may avoid all solid foods some days and drink only water or fruit juice. - Some follow nirjala vrata (no water or no intake at all) on certain days, but this is the strictest and not universal.

• Food boundaries that many Jains observe during Paryushan:

- No meat, fish, eggs, or any animal-derived products (vegetarian by default). - No root vegetables (like onions, garlic, potatoes, carrots) on days when such vrata are observed by the family (this is more common in some Shwetambar households; Digambar customs can differ). - No alcohol or intoxicants. - No food prepared with onion/garlic in many strict households during the fasting period. - Sattvic, simple foods are preferred: plain lentils, rice, millet, seasonal vegetables, dairy in moderation, bread or roti made without heavy spices, fruit, and plain water or unsweetened beverages.

• Practical tips if you’re participating:

- Decide in advance with your family or guru which days you’ll fast and to what extent. - Plan simple, light meals that fit your vrata (e.g., boiled vegetables, plain lentils, rice, roti, yogurt) and carry any required fasting foods if you’re away from home. - Use prayer and reflection as the focus of the day; the food aspect supports the internal discipline.

• Digambar vs. Shwetambar notes:

- Digambar communities often emphasize stricter fasting regimens for certain days; the specifics can vary by samaj. - Shwetambar communities may follow a more graduated scale of fasts (some days simple ekasan, some days full fast, etc.), with local customs playing a big role. - Always check with your local Jain center or elder for the exact vrata you should follow.

If you’d like, tell me your tradition (Digambar or Shwetambar) and whether you want a 10-day plan with exact meal ideas and fasting intensities. I’ll tailor a simple day-by-day food plan accordingly.

Note: For more Jain-specific guidance, you can read related content on JainKnowledge.com.