IS NAVRATRI FASTING THE ULTIMATE MENTAL HEALTH RESET?

While rooted in faith, here's how fasting has a deeper, often overlooked link to mental well-being

- Aadrika Sominder

As Navratri begins, the nine-day festival brings with it a shift in routine, from what people eat to how they structure their day. While fasting is rooted in devotion and ritual, experts say these changes may also have a subtle but meaningful impact on mental well-being. Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has been observing this fast for over 50 years, has often spoken its benefits including mental clarity and self-discipline.

Traditionally, the two Navratris-Chaitra (spring) and Sharad (autumn) coincide with seasonal transitions, making this dietary shift significant.

From an Ayurvedic lens, fasting during Navratri is considered beneficial for both physical and mental health. It is believed to act as a biological reset at a time when the digestive fire, or Agni, is most sensitive due to changing weather.

While the practice is rooted in faith, experts say it may also influence mental well-being, an aspect that often goes unnoticed.

RESEARCH BACKED