Surya Grahan 2019 Do's And Don'ts: Here's What Ayurveda Suggests For Solar Eclipse

Surya grahan 2019 will happen today. Solar eclipse 2019 timings in India are as follows  - the partial solar eclipse in India is likely to begin around 10.25 pm IST, whereas the total solar eclipse will begin around 11.54 pm IST. From diet during the solar eclipse to different activities that can be performed, there is an endless list of questions that pop up in the event of an eclipse. The solar eclipse of July 2019 will start from the South Pacific Ocean which will later enter Argentina and Chile as a "total solar eclipse."

Solar eclipse 2019: Here's what Ayurveda suggests

Dr. Mitali Madhusmita and Dr. Neeraj Jaswal, senior Ayurvedic doctors at the Art of Living elaborate on the do's and don'ts to follow during the surya grahan or solar eclipse. Here's what they have to say -

Also read: Solar Eclipse 2019 Today: What The Internet Is Telling You And What You Should Actually Believe

Why most people avoid eating anything during solar eclipse?

During an eclipse, the wavelength and intensity of light radiations on the earth's surface is altered. Especially, the blue and ultraviolet radiations - which are known for their natural disinfecting properties - are not available in sufficient quantities during eclipse. This leads to uncontrolled growth of micro-organisms in food products during eclipse and the food products are not suitable for consumption. Hence, Ayurveda advises that one should stop eating at least two hours before an eclipse, so all the food can get digested. You can also practice meditation during the eclipse.

Solar eclipse: You should avoid eating at least 2 hours before eclipse
Photo Credit: iStock

Also, sun is the source of energy for all living beings and since the sun is hidden during the eclipse, our energy levels go down and this can slow down the digestion process. Hence, according to Ayurveda one must stop eating 2 hours before an eclipse. Also, it is advisable to eat light and easy-to-digest foods before and after the eclipse. 

What precautions should pregnant women take?

There are multiple myths around the dos and don'ts for pregnant women during an eclipse. Ayurveda doesn't specify any particular precautions for pregnant women. However, staying indoors and meditating for good health of the child is advisable as it has a relaxing effect on the mind and body of the mother. 

Also read: Will The Solar Eclipse Harm Your Health?

The Ayurvedic experts also recommend that one mustn't blindly follow every myth related to solar eclipse you read on the internet but understand the science behind what Ayurveda says. 

(Dr. Mitali Madhusmita and Dr. Neeraj Jaswal are senior doctor at the Art of Living's Sri Sri Tattva Panchakarma)

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.