Lent is the holy month or the 40 day fasting period observed by Christians all over the world for repentance, self discipline and spiritual cleansing is coming to an end which culminates in Good Friday followed by celebration on Easter-Sunday. Whatever the religion, be it Lent, Shravan, Navrathri and Ramadan, these are periods for purifying your thoughts and for cleansing your mind, body and soul through fasting or frugal eating or refraining from eating your favourite dishes, drinking and smoking. This is done across all religions to observe self discipline and self control.

During this month, they pray for forgiveness, guidance or help in life and are in a process of purifying oneself through good deeds, good intentions, good behaviour, charitable work and self restraint. This is a month for regular prayers, deeds and thoughts that help to create consciousness about god, so that one is better equipped to spread His messages to the world.

Good Friday is renowned because this was the day Jesus Christ was crucified. Many Christians spend this day fasting, offering of prayers and spend the day in repentance.

Easter Sunday signifies the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is one of the most magical and miraculous events and I would like to join my Christian friends in their prayers and lay the foundation of peace and love through positive deeds, action and words.

“My best wishes and sincere prayers for each and everyone on this occasion!”

Besides the spiritual value and mental discipline, sensible fasting can also have innumerable positive health benefits if foods are combined well. As many people abstain from eating meats during this period, this is a good time to initiate and regulate our body’s cleansing and nourishing process with healthy wholesome foods for better vitality and better energy levels. My advice to all is to eat healthy, manage your weight and at the same time enjoy your favourite dishes and desserts and delicacies with the following tips:

1. Incorporate lots of fruits, vegetables, salads and sprouts.
2. Include whole grains or millets like rotis made from jowar/bajra or brown rice, plenty of vegetables, soups and salads. This is ideal for cleansing as well as nourishing.
3. Have low fat milk or cow’s milk, nuts, fruits, figs and dates.
4. Replace sugar with honey or jiggery in your desserts or sweet dishes that you make after the fast. Use dry fruits and care should be taken to consume desserts and sweets in moderation when you celebrate after your fast.
5. Work out daily for 30 to 45 minutes with warm ups, stretches, free hand cardiovascular exercises like jogging on the spot, jumping Jack, skipping etc, abdominal exercises, Yoga and pranayam. A brisk walk is also recommended.
6. Avoid foods that are processed, artificially sweetened, fried foods or snacks, sweets, desserts, chocolates, soft drinks etc.
7. Include green teas, more vegetable juices or fruits if hungry.

Such a program is aimed at cleansing, nourishing and rejuvenating you and will bring about a sense of wholesome wellness.