Ekadashi, derived from the Sanskrit term for "eleventh," refers to the 11th day of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) lunar phases in the Hindu calendar. This sacred day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver deity in Hinduism, and is traditionally observed through fasting, meditation, and spiritual practices.
Ekadashi holds immense significance because it aligns with the lunar cycle, which profoundly influences both nature and human physiology. Observing Ekadashi fasting allows for detoxification, mental clarity, and heightened spiritual awareness.
Why the 11th Day?
The Astrological Perspective
Astrologically, the Moon revolves around the Earth at a rate of 12 degrees every 24 hours. This 12-degree movement is called a tithi (lunar day). When the Moon reaches 180 degrees away from the Sun, it forms the Full Moon (Purnima), and when it is conjoint with the Sun, it forms the New Moon (Amavasya).
New Moon and Full Moon days have a strong impact on the Earth, as seen in their gravitational effect on ocean tides. Since the human body is 80% water, we are also deeply influenced by lunar cycles. Ancient Vedic texts, including the Garuda Purana, state that all seven oceans exist within the human body itself—further emphasizing the Moon's power over our emotions, mental state, and physical well-being.
The 11th day of the lunar cycle (Ekadashi) is especially significant because the Moon forms a trine (120° aspect) with either the Sun or the Earth. From this day onward, the Moon’s influence on the liquids within our body, including our digestive fluids, begins to rise.
Ekadashi and Its Impact on the Digestive System
The proper functioning of our brain and digestive system is critical to overall health. According to Ayurveda and yogic science, all diseases begin with poor digestion. The Moon’s increasing gravitational pull during Ekadashi causes a shift in the body's fluid balance, which directly impacts digestion and brain function.
From the 11th day until the 5th day after the Full Moon or New Moon, the body's digestive secretions become weaker due to the Moon's pull. This can lead to indigestion, mental fog, weakened memory, and poor decision-making.
Why Fast on Ekadashi?
To counteract these negative effects, fasting on Ekadashi serves as a biological reset for the digestive system. When the body is relieved from the burden of digestion, it can focus on detoxification, energy conservation, and mental clarity. This is why fasting on this day is highly recommended in Vedic traditions.
A proper Ekadashi fast helps:
✔ Flush out toxins from the digestive tract✔ Reduce mental lethargy and sharpen focus✔ Regulate metabolism and support longevity✔ Align the body’s energy flow with lunar cycles✔ Enhance meditation and spiritual awareness
How to Observe Ekadashi Fasting
Start the fast with only water (preferably mixed with a pinch of salt and lime juice to maintain electrolyte balance).
Prepare 2 liters of water with 1 teaspoon of salt + ½ slice of lime juice and sip throughout the day.
Avoid all solid foods and heavy liquids (milk, juices, smoothies).
If possible, cleanse the stomach and intestines before fasting to remove leftover toxins.
Break the fast on Dwadashi (the 12th day) with light, easily digestible foods such as fruits, nuts, or porridge.
Recommended Meditation for Ekadashi
Since fasting may bring sensations of hunger, fatigue, or emotional fluctuations, meditation is a powerful tool to redirect the mind and deepen the healing process. I highly recommend practicing a guided healing meditation for cellular renewal and energy balance.
🌿 Follow my special meditation for Ekadashi here:🔗 Healing Meditation for Cellular Renewal
Ekadashi Dates and Timings for New Orleans (CST) – 2025
For those in New Orleans, here are the Ekadashi dates along with their starting and ending times in Central Standard Time (CST):
Date | Ekadashi Name | Begins (CT) | Ends (CT) |
January 9, 2025 | Pausha Putrada Ekadashi | 12:52 AM, Jan 9 | 10:49 PM, Jan 9 |
January 25, 2025 | Shattila Ekadashi | 7:55 AM, Jan 24 | 9:01 AM, Jan 25 |
February 8, 2025 | Jaya Ekadashi | 9:56 AM, Feb 7 | 8:45 AM, Feb 8 |
February 23, 2025 | Vijaya Ekadashi | 2:25 AM, Feb 23 | 2:14 AM, Feb 24 |
March 9, 2025 | Amalaki Ekadashi | 8:15 PM, Mar 8 | 9:14 PM, Mar 9 |
March 25, 2025 | Papmochani Ekadashi | 6:35 PM, Mar 24 | 5:15 PM, Mar 25 |
April 8, 2025 | Kamada Ekadashi | 9:30 AM, Apr 7 | 10:42 AM, Apr 8 |
April 23, 2025 | Varuthini Ekadashi | 6:13 AM, Apr 23 | 4:02 AM, Apr 24 |
May 7, 2025 | Mohini Ekadashi | 11:49 PM, May 6 | 1:59 AM, May 8 |
May 23, 2025 | Apara Ekadashi | 2:42 PM, May 22 | 11:59 AM, May 23 |
June 6, 2025 | Nirjala Ekadashi | 3:45 PM, Jun 5 | 6:17 PM, Jun 6 |
June 21, 2025 | Yogini Ekadashi | 8:48 PM, Jun 20 | 5:57 PM, Jun 21 |
July 6, 2025 | Devshayani Ekadashi | 8:28 AM, Jul 5 | 10:44 AM, Jul 6 |
July 20, 2025 | Kamika Ekadashi | 1:42 AM, Jul 20 | 11:08 PM, Jul 20 |
August 4, 2025 | Shravana Putrada Ekadashi | 1:11 AM, Aug 4 | 2:42 AM, Aug 5 |
August 18, 2025 | Aja Ekadashi | 6:52 AM, Aug 18 | 5:02 AM, Aug 19 |
September 3, 2025 | Parsva Ekadashi | 5:23 PM, Sep 2 | 5:51 PM, Sep 3 |
September 17, 2025 | Indira Ekadashi | 1:51 PM, Sep 16 | 1:09 PM, Sep 17 |
October 2, 2025 | Papankusha Ekadashi | 8:40 AM, Oct 2 | 8:02 AM, Oct 3 |
Observing Ekadashi can be a transformative spiritual and physical practice. It aligns us with cosmic rhythms, detoxifies the body, and elevates consciousness. By fasting mindfully and incorporating meditation, you can experience deep healing and renewal with each lunar cycle.
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Sat Nam,
Natalya Rostovshchikova
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