A Solar Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or a portion of the Sun. An eclipse can be total, partial, or annular. Similarly, a Lunar Eclipse takes place when the Earth passes between the Moon and the Sun, and the Earth’s shadow obscures the moon or a portion of it. Since India is the land of spirituality there are various connotations attached to Eclipses. Therefore, eclipses are observed with a strong relation to religion as well. Let’s take a look down at the list of what one should do or avoid doing during an eclipse.
The Do’s:
Bathe: More on the scientific side, the reason for this is that during an Eclipse, the UV rays of the Sun become too harsh for the eyes and the skin. Therefore, it is said that one should always take a bath after an Eclipse. Even the clothes one was wearing during the eclipse should be washed as it is said to have absorbed excessive energy from the Sun.
Pray/Chant Mantras: It is believed that positive vibes are at the strongest during an eclipse and one should resort to praying for better life standards during an eclipse. Chanting mantras at the time of eclipse is much more powerful. And when you chant 108 times during this period it is equivalent to 10,000 times or more! So meditation and chanting are highly recommended during this period.
Putting Doorva grass/Tulsi Leaf with all Edibles: It is believed that these grasses prevent the edibles from the ill effects of the
eclipse. As per the Hindu script Doorva/Tulsi has the blessings of the three Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh.
Donation: It is believed that making donations in the name of charity brings peace to ones’ forefathers. Eclipses are considered an auspicious time to make donations.
The Don’ts:
Eat: It is not advised to either eat or drink water during an Eclipse. Nor is it allowed to provide offerings to the Deity. It is believed to be best to keep the stomach empty to avoid chemical reactions in the body and purify personal vibrations by chanting mantras. However, the temples remain closed throughout the duration of an eclipse.
Look at the Eclipse: Backed up by science, one should not look at the Solar Eclipse through naked eyes as it can cause severe damage to the eyes, even blindness.
Make any Important Financial Decisions: The duration of the eclipse is considered inauspicious to make any important financial decisions. It is considered the best time to resort to chanting prayers and devote oneself to God instead of making such deals.
Panic: The most rational thing to do during an eclipse is not to panic. Eclipses are astronomical phenomenon and happen with accordance to nature. No matter how much the significance of an eclipse is blown out of proportions, one should always remember that it is simple alignment of planets and there is absolutely nothing to be worried about.
