When we hear the word festival, most of us imagine celebrations filled with food, lights, music, and social gatherings. But for Jains, Paryushan is quite the opposite. It’s not about indulgence — it’s about self-control. It’s not about the outer world — it’s about the inner journey.

At its core, Paryushan is a time to pause, reflect, and reset. Think of it as a “soul detox.” Interestingly, many of the practices followed during these eight or ten days are not only spiritually uplifting but also backed by modern science.

Why Paryushan Matters

The word Paryushan means “staying closer to the soul.” It’s a reminder to step back from our daily chaos and focus inward. For a few days, people:

• Fast or simplify their meals
• Meditate and read scriptures
• Practice forgiveness
• Show compassion to all beings
• Reduce material indulgences

It’s like hitting the refresh button for the mind, body, and soul.

The Science Behind the Traditions

Here’s the interesting part — what our ancestors did for spiritual reasons, science now validates in the language of health and psychology.

1. Fasting: Giving Your Body a Break

Many Jains fast during Paryushan, some even without food or water for days. While that’s extreme for most, even lighter versions (like skipping meals or eating once a day) have powerful benefits.

• Fasting improves digestion, boosts immunity, and helps detoxify.
• Intermittent fasting is linked to better focus and even longer life spans.
• Avoiding root vegetables isn’t just about non-violence — it also reduces harm to countless microorganisms and lowers environmental impact.

2. Simple Eating: Aayambil & Ekasana

Imagine eating just one meal a day, that too plain and tasteless. Sounds tough, right? But there’s wisdom behind it.

• Bland food reduces sensory overload, allowing the mind to calm down.
• Light diets improve gut health and lower blood pressure.
• Scientists say calorie restriction actually supports longevity.

3. Forgiveness: Healing the Mind

The highlight of Paryushan is Samvatsari, where people ask forgiveness by saying “Micchami Dukkadam” (May my faults be forgiven).

• Forgiveness lowers stress, reduces anxiety, and improves relationships.
• Studies show it even helps heart health by reducing blood pressure.
• Letting go of grudges is scientifically proven to make you happier.

4. Compassion & Non-Violence

During Paryushan, extra care is taken to avoid harming even the tiniest life.

• Compassion activates positive emotions in the brain.
• A plant-based diet reduces carbon footprint and improves health.
• Acts of kindness release oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone.

5. Meditation & Reflection

Daily Pratikraman (reflection and confession) is like pressing pause on autopilot living.

• Meditation lowers stress and improves emotional balance.
• Chanting mantras regulates breathing, which calms the nervous system.
• Self-reflection builds awareness and emotional intelligence.

6. Detachment: Living with Less

People often give up luxuries and focus on needs during these days.

• Minimalism reduces anxiety and decision fatigue.
• Gratitude for the basics makes life more fulfilling.
• Science says decluttering your life declutters your mind too.

Why It’s Still Relevant Today

In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded with food, notifications, deadlines, and stress. Paryushan offers the exact opposite — silence, simplicity, and self-control.

It’s like a wellness retreat gifted by tradition — you don’t need to book a spa or meditation camp. Just follow what this festival has been teaching for centuries, and science will nod in agreement.

Paryushan is not just about rituals; it’s about realigning life. By fasting, forgiving, and reflecting, we cleanse both body and soul. What’s fascinating is how modern research now supports what Jain philosophy has been practicing for millennia.

In simple words, Paryushan is where spirituality meets science — guiding us to live more mindfully, compassionately, and peacefully. It reminds us that true celebration lies in self-awareness, conscious living, inner growth, and creating harmony with ourselves and others.