In Ayurveda, Sendha Namak (rock salt) is considered the purest form of salt and holds special importance during Navratras. Here’s why it is preferred during this fasting period:
- Purity and Sattva: Sendha Namak is classified as a sattvic food, meaning it promotes purity of mind and body. During Navratras, people observe a sattvic diet to purify the body and maintain a calm, spiritual state. This makes Sendha Namak a preferred choice over processed salts.
- Easy on Digestion: Unlike regular table salt, Sendha Namak is light and easier to digest. During Navratras, when fasting can reduce digestive fire (Agni), it helps maintain digestive balance and prevents heaviness.
- Balances Doshas: In Ayurveda, Sendha Namak is known to balance the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. While other salts may aggravate Pitta, Sendha Namak has a cooling effect, promoting harmony in the body, which is essential during fasting.
- Natural and Unrefined: Unlike table salt, which is often chemically processed and may contain additives, Sendha Namak is a natural and unrefined salt. This aligns with Ayurvedic principles of consuming natural, pure foods, especially during spiritual observances like Navratras.
In addition to these qualities, the minerals present in Sendha Namak make it ideal for fasting:
- Sodium: Maintains electrolyte balance, crucial during fasting to prevent dehydration and sustain energy.
- Potassium: Regulates fluid balance and supports muscle function, preventing cramps and fatigue during fasting.
- Magnesium: Calms the nervous system, helping reduce stress and anxiety that can occur during prolonged fasts.
- Calcium: Supports bone health and muscle function, ensuring the body stays strong during fasting.
- Iron: Improves blood circulation and oxygen transportation, preventing fatigue and weakness.
- Zinc: Boosts the immune system, helping the body stay resilient during fasting.
Together, these minerals ensure that Sendha Namak helps maintain balance, hydration, and energy, making it the ideal choice for maintaining physical and mental well-being during Navratras.