Maha Shivratri 2024 will be observed on Friday, March 2024. According to the Hindu calendar, it falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna. Yoga and meditation hold profound significance on Maha Shivratri, as they are integral practices deeply associated with Lord Shiva and the spiritual essence of the festival. Lord Shiva is regarded as the Adiyogi, the originator of yoga and the first guru who transmitted the knowledge of yoga to humanity. Therefore, practising yoga and meditation on Maha Shivratri is considered a way to pay homage to Lord Shiva and to connect with the divine consciousness within oneself. As you observe Maha Shivratri 2024, we at LatestLY have bought a list of Yoga and meditation routines that align with the spiritual essence of Maha Shivratri. Maha Shivratri 2024 Fasting Tips: 4 Easy Ways To Observe Mahashivratri Vrat Dedicated to Lord Shiva.

1. Shiva Namaskar (Shiva Salutation): This yoga sequence is dedicated to Lord Shiva and incorporates postures that symbolise various aspects of Shiva's attributes and mythology. It typically includes poses like Tadasana (Mountain Pose), which represents Shiva's stability, Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose), which symbolises his warrior aspect, and Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), which represents the snake around his neck.

2. Natarajasana (Lord of the Dance Pose): Also known as the Dancer's Pose, Natarajasana is associated with Lord Shiva's cosmic dance, the Tandava. This dynamic yoga posture challenges balance, strength, and flexibility, embodying the energy and grace of Shiva's divine dance.

3. Shirshasana (Headstand): Shirshasana, or the Headstand, is often practised as a homage to Lord Shiva, who is depicted as the Adiyogi (the first yogi) in deep meditation. This inversion pose is believed to activate the crown chakra, promoting clarity, insight, and spiritual awakening.

4. Japa Meditation: Japa meditation involves repeating a sacred mantra, such as "Om Namah Shivaya," which means "I bow to Shiva." Devotees chant the mantra rhythmically, focusing their minds on Lord Shiva's divine qualities and cultivating a sense of reverence and connection with the divine.

5. Trataka Meditation: Trataka meditation, or candle gazing, is a traditional practice that involves gazing steadily at a flame or an image of Lord Shiva, such as a Shiva lingam. This meditation technique cultivates concentration, inner stillness, and spiritual awareness, allowing practitioners to delve into the depths of their consciousness and experience profound states of meditation.

These yoga variations and meditation techniques offer practitioners a holistic approach to honour and connect with the divine energy of Lord Shiva during Maha Shivratri, fostering physical vitality, mental clarity, and spiritual upliftment.

Wishing everyone a Happy Maha Shivratri 2024!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 07, 2024 07:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).