Chhath Puja 2025 is just around the corner, and while many look forward to its vibrant celebrations and devotion to the Sun God, few realise the festival also offers remarkable health benefits.
Observed mainly in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh, Chhath is a festival of discipline, mindfulness and gratitude. Its rituals and fasting practices do more than honour tradition, they naturally support physical, mental and emotional well-being.
1. Detoxification through fasting
During Chhath Puja, devotees often fast for up to 36 hours, sometimes even without water. This strict routine helps the body detoxify and encourages autophagy, the natural process of cleaning out damaged cells. Studies suggest that fasting can improve metabolism, lower blood pressure, and aid digestion, making it a natural reset for the body.
2. Boosting immunity naturally
Fasting combined with early-morning sun exposure strengthens the immune system. Gentle sunlight during dawn and dusk supports vitamin D production, essential for strong bones and disease resistance. Balanced hormones and fresh air further enhance the body’s natural defence mechanisms.
3. Stress relief through water rituals
Offering arghya to the rising and setting sun while standing in rivers or ponds is a key part of Chhath Puja. Being partially submerged in water soothes the nervous system, improves circulation, and helps release negative energy. The calming effect lowers stress and promotes overall relaxation.
4. Mental clarity and emotional balance
Sun worship aligns devotees with nature’s rhythm. Praying at sunrise and sunset encourages mindfulness and emotional stability. Sunlight exposure triggers serotonin, the “happiness hormone” that enhances mood, focus and mental clarity throughout the festival.
5. Improved digestion and gut health
After days of disciplined fasting, devotees break their fast with pure, sattvic foods like fruits and homemade sweets. These easily digestible meals restore gut balance, improve bowel movement, and reduce issues like acidity or constipation.
6. Social and psychological well-being
Chhath Puja is a communal festival. Families and neighbours gather at riverbanks, strengthening social bonds. This sense of community reduces loneliness, promotes emotional support, and boosts long-term mental wellness.
7. Hygiene and eco-awareness
Before the festival, devotees clean ghats and surrounding areas. This focus on cleanliness not only maintains hygiene but also fosters eco-awareness, encouraging healthier communities and a cleaner environment.
Chhath Puja 2025 is more than a spiritual observance. It’s a natural health routine wrapped in devotion.
