Caturmasya translated Catur=4, Masya=month, announce the 4 months in which the energy of the universe will affect you and all your spiritual practices even more intensely. It begins with the Full Moon of the month Asadha (June/July) and ends with the Full Moon of the month Kartika (October/November). It is normally only practiced by Monks and in Monasteries. Therefore, it is little known in our Western world. But who would not like to be as balanced and wise as a monk? 😌 So it can't do us some harm to take a closer look at the whole thing.
The basic idea in this period is to reduce sense gratification and increase devotional practices. As much as possible.
This means eating less, less alcohol and/or other harmful substances, more meditation, chanting Mantras, Yoga and Spiritual practices, more introspection and learning more about Yogi History and Philosophy.
Caturmasya is one of the most important annual spiritual events for Yogis and Yogins.
This may sounds a lot of effort, but it is basically about establishing a spiritual routine (also called Sadhana) to become more aware of yourself and free from external distractions.
The realisation of your own Sadhana allows us to experience more connection with our Body, Mind and Soul. It helps us to transform what we have read, studied, seen, heard, smelled, tasted and felt into the strength and incentive to understand who we are, why we are here and where we are going. This strength is, in short, the essence of our whole being.
And yes, following your personal Sadhana is appropriate at any time, but the Chaturmasya brings together all the ideal circumstances to be able to do it in the most effective way. So it's the perfect moment to establish your routine if you don't have one yet.
On the left side you can see how my Sadhana looks like.
Of course, this is only meant as an inspiration for you and not as an obligation to do exactly the same. Try it out and find your own routine. It took me almost 1 year to find the perfect rhythm for me, especially for the sleeping phase.
The important thing is that once you have found out your spiritual routin, stick to it. Your Sadhana should become part of your life, whether it is Monday or Sunday, in your daily life or on holiday.
Besides your Sadhana, you can follow a restriction of certain foods to intensify the benefits of Caturmasya. Remember, however, that personal well-being always comes first. In our society some of the following restrictions, could be a bit difficult. So don't get stressed or overwhelmed. Even small actions have a big impact.
List of the foods to avoid during the four months.
1st month named Sridhar Masa : (for me personally the most dificult month, especially when we eat out) - Any green leafy vegetables like spinach, lettuce, cabbage, nor spices or herbs like parsley, coriander, mint, mint, oregano, curry, bay leaf, etc., neither in fresh leaves or powder, nor in spices or as a tea. You can of course make an exception in case of medicinal use.
2nd month: Hrsikesa Masa - No Yogurt
3rd month: Padmanabha Masa - No milk
4th month:Damodar Masa - No mustard oil and sesame seeds.
Restricted foods for the entire 4 months: aubergine, tomatoes, bee honey (not common in Europe: Loki, Parmal, Urad Dahl).
But as I said, this diet is not a must to feel the spiritual effects of Caturmasya. Meditation and Chanting Mantras is much more effective even when its just for 5 min. Any spiritual activity during Caturmasya is more beneficial than outside this time.
So take advantage of the upcoming 4 month and charge yourself with universal energy. Use this time to unearth the light within you.
