“Chhath Rituals Have Immense Health Benefits”

As the four-day Chhath Puja unfolds, devotees immerse themselves in a rigorous routine encompassing fasting, abstinence from drinking water, holy baths, and prayers to the sun. In an exclusive interview with PatnaPress, we sit down with renowned Patna-based physician Dr. Diwakar Tejaswi to delve into the myriad health benefits associated with the sacred rituals of Chhath. Join us as Dr. Tejaswi shares his insights with Siddhi Tandon. Here are the excerpts:

Chhat puja involves various rituals How does the physical activity associated with these rituals contribute to the overall health of the body? How does sun worship not only make us spiritually content but also boost our immunity, adding to our physical strength?

“Our lives, surrounded by accessible technology, have become remarkably convenient, with apps for every aspect. Unfortunately, the significance of physical work has been overshadowed. Engaging in physical work around water bodies fosters a connection with nature, allowing us to witness the sun setting and rising. Standing in the sun, as required by this puja, provides Vitamin D, crucial for protecting every organ in our body, including the cardiac muscle, lung lining, and maintaining strong bones. Moreover, if your body is dehydrated, working around water bodies helps balance the body’s water level, as our skin absorbs fresh, flowing water from the river.”

As chath puja is known for its spiritually uplifting environments, how can the practice of mindfulness and spirituality during the puja positively impact mental well-being?

“My mother has been doing Chath for 44 years, unfortunately, she has stopped doing this ritual due to the health factor. So, I have been a very close observer of the rituals and people who are doing those rituals, I have sensed the much calmness in them and the stability of the mind. Negative thoughts and emotions such as jealousy, hatred, anger, and irritability become negligible for those engaged in this puja. Medical science observations indicate that individuals performing this ritual secrete endorphins, the “happy hormones,” fostering positive thinking and contributing to balanced mental health. The accumulation of extreme hygiene, coupled with proximity to nature and three days of devotion to the mighty God, instills positivity, calmness, and self-contentment. It also rectifies the imbalance of neurotransmitters.”

Devotees observe 36- hour fasting during Chhath Puja. How does this period of fasting detoxify their body?

“Medical studies affirm the importance of intermittent fasting, aligning with ancient spiritual teachings emphasizing its health benefits. As medical science practitioners, we have observed fasting’s significance in controlling body weight and managing chronic diseases such as blood pressure and gastric problems induced by harmful fast-food consumption in contemporary times. During fasting, the shedding of older tissues and fat tissues occurs, facilitating the regeneration of new cells. This process empowers the body to combat acidic problems and enhances the removal of stored bad fats.”

Are there any health precautions or recommendations you would suggest for individuals practicing Chhat Puja?

“Those with normal health won’t encounter any trouble participating in this ritual. However, individuals with chronic diseases such as blood pressure and diabetes should consult their doctors for health precautions.”

Your message to devotees and common people on Chhath Puja?

My greetings to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Chhath Puja. This is a Puja which epitomizes an egalitarian culture, showcasing idealism within the social structure of society. It directs us to maintain the highest hygiene level. This hygiene should be maintained throughout the year to fight all types of health ailments. May Sun God bless us all!