‘Fast’ & Fabulous : Essential Fasting Tips For A Vibrant Karwa Chauth 2024

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Married women in most of the northern parts of India like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh are all set to fast for their husband's longevity on October 20th of this year. Karwa meaning "claypot" and Chauth meaning the "fourth day" falls on the fourth day after the full moon in the month of Kartika according to the Hindu lunar calendar.

On Karwa Chauth, the day starts with women munching on a special pre-dawn meal called sargi, usually made by their mothers-in-law. Then it's the fasting time until they catch a glimpse of the moon! Dressed in gorgeous traditional outfits with some mehndi on their hands, they get ready for the evening rituals. When night falls, they gather for a puja with a thali full of goodies and a clay pot.

After spotting the moon, they offer some prayers through a sieve, look through it at their husbands after which their husbands break their fast by feeding them and giving them a sip of water. It's a beautiful tradition that emphasizes the love and devotion in a relationship.

Not just married women but many unmarried women take Karwa Chauth to pray for a good life partner. As many of you might also prepare to fast this Karwa Chauth in 2024, let's look into some essential fasting tips to energize you for the whole day.

Pre-Balanced Diet

In the days leading up to Karwa Chauth, focus on taking a balanced diet packed with lean proteins, complex carbs, and healthy fats. Load up on fruits, veggies, whole grains, and legumes to keep your hormones in check and your energy levels steady like potatoes, paneer etc. And hey, try not to overdo it the night before, or you might end up feeling a bit uncomfortable. Eating a well-balanced meal will keep your body nourished and ready to tackle the day ahead!

Remain Hydrated

Before you gear up to take your Karwa Chauth fast, make sure to gulp plenty of water and load up on hydrating foods during your pre-fast meal. Avoid anything too spicy or salty, since those can leave you feeling thirsty later. Once you finally break your fast, rehydrate with some refreshing lemon-infused water or herbal tea. Staying hydrated is key for good digestion, keeping fatigue at bay, and boosting your energy levels throughout the day!

Add Nuts To Your Sargi

Don't forget to toss some nuts into your meals before Karwa Chauth! Pistachios, walnuts, and almonds are packed with fibre, protein, and healthy fats, keeping you feeling full while providing that slow, steady energy you need to avoid feeling fatigue during the day. Adding a small handful of mixed nuts to your sargi (special pre-dawn breakfast) is a smart move to help keep your energy levels up as you prepare to fast. They're awesome for stashing away some extra energy and fighting off fatigue while you wait for that moon to appear!

Avoid Acidity

To prevent acidity while fasting, keep your pre-fast meals light-skip the heavy, greasy, or spicy foods. Incorporate some buttermilk or yogurt to soothe your stomach. If you're prone to acidity, check with a healthcare pro and consider taking a tablet before your fast. Keeping your digestive system happy will help you feel more comfortable during the fasting period!

Say 'No' To Caffeine

While caffeine might give you a quick energy boost, it can lead to dehydration, especially when you're fasting. To avoid withdrawal headaches on Karwa Chauth, start cutting back on coffee a few days ahead. Switch to decaf or herbal teas to stay hydrated without the jitters. Plus, herbal drinks can help you chill out, so you won't feel stressed on this special day. If you're a regular coffee drinker, taper off gradually to make the transition smoother!

Mellow Down On The Sweet Intake

While it's tradition to enjoy sweets on Karwa Chauth, it's good to be mindful about it. Opt for natural sweeteners like figs or dates for your sargi-they pack a nutritious punch and give you quick energy. Avoid loading up on sugar, though, as it can lead to a sudden drop in energy levels after a brief period of feeling energized. Pair your sweets with protein-rich foods to keep your blood sugar steady. This way, you can indulge your sweet tooth while staying energised and enjoy the festive vibes!

Take Ample Rest

The night before Karwa Chauth, make sure you get a good night's sleep! Catching seven to eight hours of quality sleep helps balance the hormones that control your hunger and energy. Set up a relaxing bedtime routine and ditch the electronics like mobile, T.V. or laptop before bed to improve your sleep. With enough rest, your body will be better prepared to handle the fasting day ahead!

When it's time to break your fast after a long day celebrating Karwa Chauth, make sure to nourish your body with wholesome foods. Fresh fruits like apples and oranges, along with nuts and seeds, are great for quick energy without causing acidity. Mix a little salt and sugar in water and sip it slowly to keep your blood sugar and hydration levels in check.

Remember to eat mindfully-take your time, savour each bite, and avoid overstuffing yourself to prevent gas and indigestion. Steer clear of fizzy drinks since they can dehydrate your kidneys; instead, opt for unsweetened hot beverages instead. Lastly, engage in some light physical activity like brisk walks or yoga to boost circulation, mood, and digestion. This balanced approach will help you enjoy the spiritual and social joys of Karwa Chauth while feeling your best!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.