In the daily hustle and bustle of life, we forget our source of energy – that which is running us. Mahashivratri is a festival to remember and to take our awareness to the basis of our existence: Shiva.
What is the science behind Mahashivratri?
It is celebrated according to the planetary system due to the wobble performed by the Earth around the Sun. The gravitational pull of the Moon is maximum on the new Moon and full moon day, resulting in the rise of full body fluid in an upward direction towards the brain.
AUSPICIOUS DAY OF THE YEAR
Maha Shivratri is one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism that is celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva. According to the Hindu calendar, it is observed on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalguna (February-March).
There are several reasons why Maha Shivratri holds immense importance in Hinduism:
Celebration of Lord Shiva: Maha Shivratri is celebrated to honor and worship Lord Shiva, one of the three main deities in Hinduism. Lord Shiva is considered the destroyer of evil, the God of meditation, and the ultimate reality.
Auspicious Day: Maha Shivratri is considered a highly auspicious day for spiritual seekers, and devotees who seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. It is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva is easily pleased and grants the wishes of his devotees.
Significance for Married Women: Maha Shivratri is considered particularly important for married women, who fast on this day for the well-being of their husbands and family. Unmarried women fast to seek a good husband.
Cleansing of sins: According to Hindu mythology, observing fast and offering prayers to Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri is believed to cleanse one’s sins and purify the soul.
Celebration of Diversity: Maha Shivratri is celebrated by people from different castes, creeds, and communities across India, signifying the importance of unity in diversity.
Overall, Maha Shivratri is a day of immense significance in Hinduism, which is observed with great devotion and reverence across the country.
THE ENVIRONMENTAL TRANSITION
The transition from winter to spring marks a period of seasonal change that brings about various shifts in the environment and the world around us. Here are some of the things that commonly happen during this time:
Longer days and shorter nights: As the earth’s axis tilts towards the sun, the amount of daylight increases, leading to longer days and shorter nights.
Warmer temperatures: As the sun’s rays become more direct, they heat up the earth, leading to warmer temperatures.
Thawing of snow and ice: As temperatures rise, snow and ice begin to melt, leading to the gradual thawing of lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water.
The emergence of plants and flowers: With warmer temperatures and longer days, plants and flowers begin to emerge from their winter dormancy and grow, bringing a burst of color and life to the landscape.
Migration of animals: Many animals that migrated to warmer climates or hibernated during the winter begin to return to their habitats, marking the beginning of the breeding and nesting season.
Overall, the transition from winter to spring is a time of renewal and growth, bringing new life and energy to the natural world.
SCIENCE BEHIND THE MAHA SHIVRATRI
Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is observed on the 14th night of the dark half of the Hindu month of Phalguna, which usually falls in February or March.
From a scientific perspective, the festival is associated with the changing seasons and the movement of the Earth. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is known as the destroyer and is believed to have the power to transform negative energy into positive energy. The festival of Maha Shivratri marks the transition from winter to spring, and it is believed that during this time, Lord Shiva’s divine energy is at its peak, making it an auspicious time to pray and seek his blessings.
Furthermore, the practice of fasting during Maha Shivratri is believed to have health benefits. Fasting helps to detoxify the body and can improve digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and boost the immune system. It is also believed that fasting during this time can help in attaining a state of mental and spiritual purity, allowing devotees to connect more deeply with Lord Shiva.
In addition to fasting, many people also practice meditation and yoga during Maha Shivratri, which can have physical and mental health benefits. Meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus and concentration, and increase feelings of well-being. Yoga can help improve flexibility, strength, and balance, and can also have a calming effect on the mind and body.
Overall, while Maha Shivratri is a religious festival, it is also associated with scientific concepts related to the changing seasons, the movement of the Earth, and the health benefits of fasting, meditation, and yoga.