This is an interesting information from the Padma Purana, which describes the relevance of Ekadasi.
According to scientific research, it is known that the air pressure on
the earth varies to extreme limits on both the new moon (Amavasya) and
the full moon (Purnima) day. This is because of the orbital path
combination of the sun, moon and earth.
This can be observed by
the change in the nature of the tidal waves on the new moon and full
moon days. The waves are very high and rough, but from the next day
onwards, the waves become calm, an indication that the pressure has also
receded.
According to science, it takes about 3-4
days for the food that we eat today to reach our brain (for the brain
to understand the food intake). Now, if we eat light/fast on Ekadasi
days, that intake will reach the brain correspondingly on the New
moon/full moon day.On both
of these days, the earth pressure is at its maximum, thus leading to
imbalance in everything, including ones thought process.
So, if the input to the brain is at a
minimum, the chances of the brain indulging in any wayward activity due
to the high pressure imbalance also becomes minimum.
Another explanation for Ekadasi fasting
is that compared to any other day of the moon cycle, atmospheric
pressure is lowest on Ekadasi days. Thus, this is the best time to fast
and cleanse the bowel system. If we fast on any other day, the high
pressure/strain may damage our system. Thus, it is advisable that after
fasting on Ekadasi, on the immediate next day (Dwadasi), we should get
up early and eat as soon as possible.
As per
both the above theories, the fasting practice on Ekadasi days has a
strong scientific base. People who observe the fast are asked to stay
away from all types of grains, and to have a light diet of nuts, milk,
fruits, etc.
It is amazing how the ancient Vedic Indians devised
this method to keep ourselves fit and free from any negative influences !
The relevance of the fast has been imbibed into a story in the Puranas
so that it can be easily carried on from one generation to the other...
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