Can’t keep the difficult fast of Ekadashi? So just follow these 5 rules, you will get the same virtue as fasting:

News India Live, Digital Desk: In Hindu religion, Ekadashi fast is considered the best of all fasts and the provider of salvation. This date dedicated to Lord Vishnu comes twice a month. However, due to health reasons, age or busy schedule, it is not possible for everyone to observe a waterless or fruit fast. Special paths have been mentioned in the scriptures for such people also. Even if you cannot observe a complete fast, by following some rules you can get the same blessings of Shri Hari as a fasting person gets.

The most important thing is to give up rice in food.

The most important rule on the day of Ekadashi is to give up rice. According to mythological beliefs, consuming rice on this day is considered prohibited. It is mentioned in the scriptures that eating rice on Ekadashi is a symbol of impurity. Those who are not fasting should also eat satvik food on this day and avoid rice completely. It is believed that just by giving up the rice you become a part of the discipline of Ekadashi.

Stay away from unhealthy food and addictions

Purity of mind and body is mandatory on the date of Ekadashi. Even if you are not fasting, do not consume tamasic substances like onion, garlic, meat and alcohol on this day. Apart from this, one should stay away from any kind of intoxication or addiction. Consuming satvik food keeps the mind calm and concentration remains in the devotion of Lord Vishnu. Following celibacy on this day is also considered best.

Purity and control over behavior

The fruit of fasting is not achieved merely by being hungry, but by good conduct. On the day of Ekadashi, one should avoid getting angry, lying or criticizing anyone. On this day, control your speech and speak as little as possible. Even if you are not fasting, wake up early in the morning, take bath, wear clean clothes and light a lamp in front of Lord Vishnu. Charity and use of sweet words increases the virtue of this day manifold.

Chanting of Vishnu Sahasranama and Mantras

Mental worship has great importance in the path of devotion. Those who are physically unable to observe the fast should chant Lord Vishnu’s mantras like ‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’ as much as they can on the day of Ekadashi. In the evening, light a ghee lamp near the Tulsi plant and revolve around it. Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama or listening to the story of Ekadashi is also considered as fruitful as fasting.

Special importance of charity

According to the scriptures, charity never goes waste. On Ekadashi, it is very auspicious to feed the hungry, donate water or donate sesame seeds and clothes to Brahmins. If you are not fasting, you can take advantage of the auspiciousness of this date by helping someone in need. Donation done selflessly is very dear to Lord Vishnu and it provides relief from the troubles of life.