Ekadashi Fasts for 2024 and Recommendations on Observing Them from the Prayas Meditation Center
Ekadashi are days when spiritual practice gains special power, and fasting on these days serves as a means to cleanse the mind, body, and soul. Abstaining from food, especially grains and legumes, allows one to direct energy towards self-improvement. Here is the calendar of Ekadashi fasts for 2024, along with tips on how to properly begin and end the fast.
Ekadashi Fasts Calendar for 2024
January 2024:
✅ Saphala Ekadashi: January 7
✅ Putrada Ekadashi: January 21
February 2024:
✅ Shattila Ekadashi: February 6
✅ Bhaimi Ekadashi: February 20
March 2024:
✅ Vijaya Ekadashi: March 6
✅ Amalaki Ekadashi: March 20
April 2024:
✅ Papamochani Ekadashi: April 5
✅ Kamada Ekadashi: April 19
May 2024:
✅ Varuthini Ekadashi: May 4
✅ Mohini Ekadashi: May 19
June 2024:
✅ Apara Ekadashi: June 2
✅ Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi: June 17
July 2024:
✅ Yogini Ekadashi: July 2
✅ Shayani Ekadashi: July 17
✅ Kamika Ekadashi: July 31
August 2024:
✅ Pavitropana Ekadashi: August 16
✅ Annada Ekadashi: August 29
September 2024:
✅ Parivartini (Padma) Ekadashi: September 14
✅ Indira Ekadashi: September 28
October 2024:
✅ Pashankusha Ekadashi: October 14
✅ Rama Ekadashi: October 28
November 2024:
✅ Prabodhini (Devutthana) Ekadashi: November 12
✅ Utpanna Ekadashi: November 27
December 2024:
✅ Mokshada Ekadashi: December 11
✅ Saphala Ekadashi: December 26
Recommendations for Observing the Ekadashi Fast
Preparation for the Fast:
✅ A day before the fast, limit the intake of heavy foods, especially meat, fish, onions, and garlic.
✅ Start the morning of the fast with cleansing practices such as meditation, yoga, or a short prayer to tune into a spiritual state.
Dietary Restrictions:
✅ Avoid consuming grains, legumes, and products made from them.
✅ You are allowed to consume fruits, dairy products (if not on a strict fast), nuts, honey, and water.
✅ If possible, practice a dry fast (no food or water) or consume only liquids (water, juices, herbal teas).
Meditation and Spiritual Practice:
✅ Dedicate more time to meditation, reading sacred texts, mantras, or prayers.
✅ Use this day to reflect on your spiritual goals and path.
Control Over Emotions and Mind:
✅ Refrain from negative thoughts, conflicts, and unnecessary conversations.
✅ Focus on peace, calmness, and love for all living beings.
Proper Breaking of the Fast:
✅ Break the fast gradually: start with a glass of water or fruit juice, and then move on to light food.
✅ The first meal after the fast should be light: opt for fruits, vegetables, and light dairy products.
Consistency and Regularity:
✅ If you cannot observe a strict fast, you can choose less strict forms of fasting (e.g., avoiding only grains).
✅ Try to practice fasting on each Ekadashi to maintain spiritual discipline and purification.
Consultation with a Doctor:
✅ If you have chronic illnesses or are taking medication, consult with your doctor before observing the fast.