Chhath Puja Has Health Benefits! Science-Backed Reasons Why Chhath Parv Rituals Are Good For You

Chhath Puja is one of the popular Hindu festivals that worships the essential parts of nature like the sun and the rivers. Dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, the Indian celebration holds immense importance, especially in the states of UP and Bihar. Chhath Puja is done to seek blessings for the whole family by any one person of the house who fasts and worships. While it is collectively celebrated and includes efforts from the whole family, but one person, also known as the Parvaitin pray and fast for the well-being of their family. This year Chhath Puja will be celebrated on Saturday and Sunday, November 2 and 3. The prasad offerings include sweets, Kheer, Thekua, rice laddu(made of rice grit) and fruits (mainly sugarcane, sweet lime and banana) offered in small bamboo soop (winnows). Emphasis is put on maintaining the purity of the food.

Science-Backed Reasons Why Chhath Rituals Are Good

Chhath Puja is known to have positive effects on health. It is said that the festivals have a scientific significance, explaining why it is celebrated. Chhath Puja marks the change in the season and is said to detoxify your body, preparing it for the winter season.  In fact, the main rituals involved in Chhath Puja celebration like taking dips in cold water and soaking in the early morning sun is said to have immense health benefits. These rituals helps improve the overall function of the body. It is also known to remove toxicity from the body by keeping harmful bacteria away. However, you must choose a waterbody that is clean for the rituals. The stringent rituals of Chhath puja is known to prepare your body for the onset of the winter season.

Taking holy dips in cold water early morning and in the evening is known to improve your breathing and improving your lung functions. Chemicals such beta-endorphins and noradrenaline are released inside the body when you take a  dip in cold water that freshen you up. The energy provided by the dip is also known to calm your mind. Moreover, who doesn't know the positive health effects of the morning sunlight? Apart from boosting your body with vitamin D, it is also known to strengthen your immune system while giving your stronger bones.

The festival brings in a lot of positive energy, while keeping your diet in control for a day. Chhath is celebrated every year, except the year there has been a death in the family. It is said that one must not stop celebrating the festival, annually, once started.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 22, 2019 04:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).