Last Updated on November 6, 2019 by The Health Master
01/64 simple ways to keep your fast all day long
Karwa Chauth is one of the biggest festivals for married women in India and will be celebrated on the 17th of October this year. This one-day festival is celebrated by married women across North India as they fast and pray for the long life of their partner.
Of late, even husbands have joined in celebrating this festival with much zest and fervour and observe the rigorous fast for their wives. It is also said that keeping fast on Karwa Chauth brings bliss and happiness to the married life of the couples.
02/6Start preparing
Traditionally, during this festival, married women wake up before sunrise and eat the sargi sent by their mother-in-law. This nirjala fast is kept for one whole day, right from the sunrise until the time the moon shines in the sky. Such is the excitement for this festival that the preparation usually begins almost a week in advance as married women buy new outfits and matching pieces of jewellery to get dolled up like a newlywed.
Gearing up for your first ever Karwa Chauth can be nerve wracking and overwhelming in equal amounts. While it can be exciting to deck up for your partner and fast for his/her long life, the nirjala (no water) aspect of this fast can be a little intimidating.
Here are 4 tips which will ensure that you survive the day like a boss.
03/6Do not miss the sargi/ early morning meal
It does not matter whether you are keeping the fast before marriage or it is your first Karwa Chauth after marriage, having a pre-dawn meal is extremely important to maintain your energy throughout the day. Sargi is a traditional, pre-dawn thali which a mother-in-law gives her daughter-in-law.
In case, you are unmarried make sure that you eat plenty of dry fruits, seeds and citrus fruits before sunrise to keep up your energy level.
04/6Prepping a day before
Since it is a nirjala fast (without water) it is important to keep yourself hydrated. Increase the intake of water and other liquids (coconut water, fruit juices etc.) a day before to keep yourself hydrated during the fast.
05/6Ditch the caffeine-laden tea or coffee
It does not matter how tempting it is to have that cup of piping hot cup of coffee or tea early in the morning, we suggest otherwise. Instead, opt for fresh fruit juice or coconut water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
06/6Brush your teeth to avoid the temptation
This may seem a little weird but brushing your teeth whenever you feel hungry and thirsty can help you curb your cravings. When you brush your teeth, the sweet taste of toothpaste temporarily satiates your hunger pangs and the swirling of water in the mouth can help fight dehydration.
