ISKCON PANDAVA SENA
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Your guide to Krishna Consciousness basics.
Ekadashi
Sacred fasting days for spiritual advancement
OVERVIEW
Ekadashi occurs twice monthly on the 11th day of the lunar cycle. Fasting from grains and beans on this day is prescribed in Vedic scriptures as a powerful means of spiritual advancement and pleasing Lord Vishnu.
KEYPOINTS
Occurs on the 11th day of both waxing and waning moon
Fast from grains, beans, and certain vegetables
Increase chanting, reading, and hearing on this day
Break fast the next day during the specified time period (parana)
Following Ekadashi purifies consciousness and grants spiritual merit
PRACTICAL TIPS
Check the Vaishnava calendar for Ekadashi dates in your location
Prepare Ekadashi-friendly meals in advance
Common Ekadashi foods: fruits, nuts, potatoes, buckwheat, milk products
Use the extra energy (from not digesting grains) for spiritual practice
Note the parana (fast-breaking) time and follow it carefully
FROM THE SCRIPTURES
"From all kinds of fasting, the fasting on Ekadashi is most dear to Me. Anyone who fasts on Ekadashi will be freed from the reactions of sins."
