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Sharad Purnima: The Full Moon of Healing, Lakshmi, and Ayurvedic Rituals

Sharad Purnima, celebrated on October 16, 2024, is one of the most sacred full moon nights in Ayurveda and Hindu tradition. Known for its purifying moonlight and association with the goddess Lakshmi, this night offers a unique opportunity to enhance health, strengthen ojas (vital energy), and practice Ayurvedic rituals that balance the body, mind, and spirit.





What is Sharad Purnima?

Sharad Purnima marks the transition from the hot, humid monsoon to the cooler autumn season, which is crucial for calming Pitta dosha and preparing for the dry Vata season. In Hindu tradition, Sharad Purnima is also linked to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. On this night, she blesses devotees with material and spiritual riches.


Why is the Full Moon on Sharad Purnima Special?

According to Vaidya Padma Raju, the rays of the Sharad Purnima full moon are the most purifying of the year. The moon’s bright energy can protect against diseases, balance the doshas, and promote natural detoxification. This makes it an auspicious time to practice Ayurvedic rituals like the Moon Milk ceremony.


Sharad Purnima Ritual: Preparing Moon Milk

One of the most popular Ayurvedic rituals during Sharad Purnima is preparing and drinking Moon Milk. This milk, infused with the energy of the full moon, enhances digestion, boosts immunity, and soothes acidity in the body.





Moon Milk Recipe

  • ½ cup fresh whole milk (unhomogenized if possible)

  • ½ cup water

  • 1 green cardamom pod

  • 2 saffron threads

  • A pinch of turmeric

  • A pinch of black pepper

  • 2 pinches of almond flour

  • Jaggery or unrefined sugar (optional)


Instructions:

  1. Boil the milk and water three times to purify it.

  2. Add the spices, almond flour, and jaggery.

  3. Take the milk outside and place it in the moonlight. Look at the moon’s reflection in the milk, make your wishes, and drink it.


This ritual is best performed later in the evening when the moon is high in the sky. If the moon is not visible, leave the milk in the ambient moonlight for 5–10 minutes to absorb its energy.


The Significance of Ojas and Ojas-Building Foods

In Ayurveda, Ojas represents the body’s essential vitality and resilience. Consuming Ojas-building foods like milk, ghee, almonds, dates, honey, and saffron during Sharad Purnima helps to strengthen the body and prepare it for the upcoming Vata season. The Moon Milk recipe is specifically designed to nourish ojas, boosting immunity and promoting vitality.


The Role of Agastya Star and Water Purification

During the Sharad season, a special star called Agastya energizes all bodies of freshwater—rivers, lakes, and ponds. This makes water especially purifying at this time. Bathing in or drinking boiled water is recommended, as it helps cleanse the body from accumulated toxins, a common cause of disease in Ayurveda.


Why Sharad Purnima is Important for Healing and Abundance

Sharad Purnima is more than just a full moon; it’s an opportunity to align with the rhythms of nature and invite abundance into your life. The rituals performed on this night, particularly the Moon Milk ceremony, are powerful tools for healing and spiritual growth. Whether you practice meditation, drink moon-infused milk, or simply sit under the moonlight, this night offers a chance to reset and rejuvenate.


As we celebrate Sharad Purnima 2024, may the purifying rays of the moon and the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi bring you health, peace, and prosperity.


Soak under the healing power of this full moon, focus on building ojas, and take time to reflect on your intentions for the coming months


Love

Maria Jose

Ayurvredic Practitionner

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