Dos and Don’ts during a Surya Grahan
- It is beneficial to do meditation, chant mantras from the starting to the end of an eclipse.
- One should not perform any auspicious work during this period.
- Fast is performed during the day of a Surya Grahan. Many perform a 12 hour fast the day before the Surya Grahan and continue until the it ends.
- One should chant the Surya Mantra as many believes that it strengthens the spirituality.
- During the eclipse, place tharpa/durva grass in bathing and drinking water and keep aside. It has proven that the grass will purify the water during a grahan and this has immense purifying effects.
- Perform a ritual bath after the eclipse has ended. Taking a dip in rivers and lakes are also highly auspicious.
- Hindu temples will remain closed on the day of a grahan. Nevertheless, temples of Lord Shiva are open as the Lord represents the symbol of darkness.
- It is best to not sleep during this period of time.
- Do not take any important decisions on this day.
- Avoid eating food cooked before the surya grahan. According to Ayurveda, the harmful rays from the grahan will contaminate the food and thus affect our digestive system.
- Do not look at the surya grahan phenomenon.
- Do not touch any idol, a Tulsi or Shami tree. Once the eclipse is over, sprinkle them will Holy water.
- Clean the idol deities once the grahan is over.
Dos and Don’ts for Pregnant Women
Despite the lack of scientific proof, a surya grahan is said to be especially harmful to pregnant women. Here are some dos and don’ts for pregnant women.
- Pregnant women should avoid getting exposed to the grahan.
- Avoid sleeping.
- Do not fast during the grahan and consume freshly cooked food once the grahan is over.
- It is best to chant mantras that will promote the health of the mother and the unborn child.
- Take a bath before and after the grahan.
- It is best to avoid wearing metal like hair pins and jewellery.
Credit: Malay Mail, Telegraph UK, The Hindu & Ayurvedaintranslation