Sawan Ekadashi Vrat 2025: A strong remedy to improve your career and relationships |

On July 21, 2025, the sacred Ekadashi of Sawan month will be observed. On this day, the Ekadashi tithi will remain in effect until 9:38 AM, after which the Dwadashi tithi will begin. The Rohini Nakshatra will be active until 9:07 AM, followed by the Mrigashira Nakshatra. Additionally, the Vriddhi Yoga, considered highly auspicious for growth and progress, will last until 6:39 AM. This precise alignment of tithi, nakshatra, and yoga makes the early morning hours of this Ekadashi especially suitable for devotional activities, fasting, and Vishnu worship, bringing spiritual merit and inner purification.

In our Shastras, the Moon is said to rule the manas (mind). Just as the Moon affects the tides of the ocean, it also stirs the subtle waters within the human system. Our body is made up of nearly 70% water. The gravitational pull of the Moon has a strong impact on our thoughts, emotions, and even physical functions like digestion and circulation. On Ekadashi, the Moon’s influence on our mental and physical plane is at a unique balance point. By fasting on this day, we reduce the burden on the digestive system and allow the mind to rise above tamas (inertia) and rajas (agitation). It is a time when sattva (clarity, purity) naturally increases. This is why saints, yogis, and even householders who observe Ekadashi find their mind calmer, sharper, and more inward. It becomes easier to chant mantras, meditate, or do swadhyaya (study of scriptures).

The digestive fire (jatharagni) fluctuates with the lunar cycle. On the 11th day, due to the Moon’s effect, the digestive fire is naturally lower. Eating heavy food during this time can lead to toxin accumulation, indigestion, and mental dullness. By observing upvas (fasting), we allow the agni to rest and reset. Toxins are released, the blood gets purified, and subtle channels (nadis) are cleansed. Those who regularly observe Ekadashi have better control over senses, improved memory, and emotional balance. In our tradition, fasting is not punishment. It is a tapasya—a voluntary offering of food and desire in the feet of the Divine. It makes the body light, the breath deep, and the heart open.

The number 11 is symbolic of spiritual awakening. In the body, we have 10 senses (5 of action, 5 of knowledge), and the 11th is the mind. On Ekadashi, we are invited to turn these inward. Instead of running behind pleasures, we turn within and touch the deeper silence where Bhagwan resides. Many devotees do japa of “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” or “Om Namah Shivaya” on this day. Some perform Vishnu Sahasranama path or visit temples. The scriptures say that the punya earned by fasting on a single Ekadashi is equal to that of visiting holy pilgrimages. Even the Devas do not eat on Ekadashi. It is a day when the spiritual vibrations of the world are very high. Fasting becomes a means to tune into that vibration.

Modern Science and Ancient Wisdom

Modern scientists have observed that the Moon affects not only tides but also the human brain. On certain lunar days, serotonin and melatonin levels fluctuate. These hormones are linked to mood, sleep, and clarity. Fasting, in turn, has been shown to improve mental sharpness, reduce stress, and detoxify the body. During Ekadashi, when the Moon’s pull is strong, fasting acts like a balancing act. It keeps the body’s system from overreacting to the lunar effects. It also brings mental stillness and emotional clarity. In Ayurveda, Ekadashi is linked to deep body cleansing. Without the constant work of digestion, the body’s repair and healing mechanisms become more active. Fasting reduces ama (toxins), supports liver function, and keeps blood pressure and cholesterol in check. This is why many modern wellness practices now recommend intermittent fasting. But our Rishis already knew this ages ago and had designed Ekadashi as the ideal spiritual and physical detox every 15 days.

If one wishes to take the full benefit of Ekadashi, it is not just about skipping meals. It is about tuning the body, mind, and speech towards the Divine. Here are some traditional practices:

Those who are ill, pregnant, or very old may follow partial fasting. Even the sankalp to avoid tamasic food and be inward for the day is valuable.

Ekadashi and the Mind: What Changes to Expect

Regular observation of Ekadashi has a subtle but deep impact on the mind. Those who fast feel more in control of their thoughts and desires. The mind becomes lighter. Sleep improves. Anxiety reduces. It is said that during Ekadashi, the karmic layer around the mind becomes thinner. So, if one sincerely prays, chants, or reflects during this day, the fruit is manifold. It is like planting seeds in a fertile field. Those who are struggling with overthinking, mental restlessness, or emotional pain can take Ekadashi as a divine opportunity to reset their inner world.

While Ekadashi is especially dear to Bhagwan Vishnu, all forms of the Divine bless the devotee who fasts with faith. In many traditions, Shiv bhakts also fast and do Rudrabhishek on Ekadashi. It is believed that on this day, both Vishnu and Shiva are easily pleased. The fasting becomes not just a personal act but a cosmic offering. The Devas, Pitras, and even your inner Deva (Atma) become pleased. In the Puranas, stories are told of kings, sages, and even rakshasas who attained divine blessings through Ekadashi fasting. It is not limited by caste, gender, or status. The vrata is open to all who seek purification.

Ekadashi in Kaliyuga: A Path to Upliftment

In this age of speed, distraction, and confusion, even a single day of fasting can bring tremendous clarity. Ekadashi is a golden gift given to us by our Rishis. It is a chance to stop, cleanse, and reconnect. It doesn’t require money, travel, or rituals. Just a clean heart, a simple meal, and a day of inner focus is enough. If followed sincerely, Ekadashi becomes a bridge between the restless mind and the eternal soul. As July 21 approach, let us prepare not just our bodies but also our intentions. Fasting on Ekadashi is like lighting a lamp in your inner temple. It glows with sattva and brings light to the dark corners of the mind. Let us take this sacred opportunity to align with the Moon, purify the body, calm the breath, and remember the Supreme. In the silence of the stomach, the soul speaks louder. Om Namo Narayanaya. Om Namah Shivaya.