CHATURMAS This is a period of 4 months, extending from the 11th day (Ekādaśī) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing period of the moon) of the lunar month Āshāda (Jun-Jul) to the 11th day (Ekādaśī) of the waxing period of the lunar month of Kartika (Oct-Nov). This is a period of penance, inner cleansing of the body, mind, and soul, and strengthen faith. Vedic wisdom, Jainism, & Buddhism describe this period of monsoon-retreat where the monks stay at one place and preach to the commoners avoiding their frequent travel, due to increased insects & bugs in nature. This is also the time when the metabolic fire is not optimal, especially in the Varshā Rutu, after which it gradually increases, the best being in the last month of Chāturmās. During the first two months of Chāturmās, Vāta is vitiated and hence your diet and lifestyle needs to be managed to pacify that dosha. With the increase in the colonies of bacteria, viruses & fungi, it is also best to stay away from infectio...
